Can You Change Your Name Without Going to Court in Missouri

Legal Name Changes Always Require Court Approval in Missouri

Under Missouri law, any adult seeking to change their name must file a petition with the circuit court in their county of residence. This requirement prevents fraud and ensures that name changes are correctly documented in public records. The court process, while formal, is designed to protect both the individual seeking the name change and the public interest.

When You Can Change Your Name Without Going to Court

1. Name Change After Marriage – If you are changing your last name due to marriage, Missouri law does not require you to go to court. Instead, you can update your name using your marriage certificate. Here’s how:
   • Obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the county recorder’s office.
   • Update your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA) by submitting an application for a new Social Security card.
   • Change your name on your driver’s license at the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) by providing your updated Social Security card and marriage certificate.
   • Notify your bank, employer, insurance providers, and other institutions of your new legal name.
2. Name Change After Divorce – If you are restoring your maiden name or a previous legal name after a divorce, you typically do not need a separate court order. Missouri law allows a judge to grant your name change as part of the divorce decree. To proceed:
   • Request your name change during your divorce proceedings.
   • Ensure the final divorce decree includes a statement restoring your former name.
   • Use the certified divorce decree to update your name with the SSA, Missouri DOR, and other institutions.
3. Name Changes Due to Clerical Errors – In cases where there is a clerical or administrative error on your birth certificate, Social Security card, or another legal document, you may be able to correct it without a court order. You will need to provide supporting documentation, such as:
   • Your birth certificate
   • Government-issued identification
   • Records proving the correct spelling or format of your name

You should contact the specific agency responsible for the document in question to determine their correction process.

When You Must Go to Court for a Name Change

If your situation does not fall under marriage, divorce, or clerical corrections, you will likely need to petition the court for a legal name change. This includes:

• Changing your first, middle, or last name for personal reasons
• Changing your child’s name without both parents’ consent
• Changing your name for gender affirmation purposes
• Changing your name due to personal safety concerns, such as escaping domestic violence

The Missouri Name Change Process

If a court order is required, you will need to:

• File a Petition for Name Change in your county circuit court.
• Publish a Notice of Name Change in a local newspaper (unless waived for safety reasons).
• Attend a Court Hearing, where a judge will review your petition.
• Receive a Court Order if your name change is approved.
• Update Your Legal Documents using the certified court order.

Contact The Betz Law Firm for Assistance

If you’re considering a name change in Missouri, The Betz Law Firm can help make the process as smooth as possible. Our experienced attorneys understand the legal requirements and the personal significance of changing your name.

Contact us today for a consultation about your name change. We’ll explain your options and help you navigate the court process efficiently and effectively.