St. Louis Divorce Lawyers

How to Change Your Name – For Transgender and Non-Binary People

By legally changing your name, you will no longer be required to use your “dead name” when signing contracts or other legal documents.

In previous articles, we discussed the process of getting a name change. However, we did not touch on the why. It is for many to return to their maiden name after a divorce or perhaps take the name of a beloved stepparent. However, there is one demographic that seeks a name change for affirmation.

Non-gender conforming individuals, such as transgender or non-binary, find that they wish to find a name that fits their identity. The good news, you do not need a petition for a name change to take on a new name. However, many find that their dead name’s repeated necessity for bank accounts, job applications, lease agreements, or loans brings with it a burden. This can feel like a chain dragging them backward after so much hard work to be true to themselves. This is where a legal name change may be helpful.

Benefits of Legally Changing Your Name

By legally changing your name, you will no longer be required to use your deadname when signing contracts or other legal documents. Bank accounts will now reflect the name your identity conforms with, not what was assigned to you at birth. While it may seem small, this can have an unimaginable positive impact on your day-to-day life.

How to Legally Change Your Name

Several requirements need to be completed before a person can petition to have their name changed. As part of the petition, specific requirements must be included to be taken into consideration. These include:

  • The petitioner’s current name and the name they would like to have it changed to
  • Why the name change is necessary
  • Proof of residency
  • The petitioner’s date and place of birth along with the name of both parents, including their mother’s maiden name
  • The name of the spouse of the petitioner is married, plus any children. Also, the ages and residence of the children will be required.
  • If this is a second name change, the name of the court which allowed the first, the place, and the date
  • Any liens pending against the petitioner or court orders involving money, the case number, and the name of the court in which the action is pending in
  • Proof that the legal name change will not harm any other person or persons

Contact The Betz Law Firm

If you are a non-binary or transgender individual and want to have your name reflect your identity, then contact the trusted St. Louis Law Firm at The Betz Law Firm today for your free 30-minute consultation. Our staff will help you with this important step along your path to gender affirmation.

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