My Kid Wants to Change Their Name – I Need Advice

If your child has requested a legal name change, you undoubtedly have many questions and concerns. At The Betz Law Firm, our firm has handled every type of name change situation.

Has your son or daughter expressed a firm desire to change their name? There are several reasons why your kid may want to request a legal name change. However, the reason may come from a strong feeling that their current name doesn’t reflect who they feel they are on the inside. A young child may express this idea spontaneously, while a teen will typically have given this decision a great deal of thought.

If your child has requested a legal name change, you undoubtedly have many questions and concerns. At The Betz Law Firm, our firm has handled every type of name change situation. While it may seem like a simple process, it is in your best interest to allow our team of experienced name change lawyers to help file a petition to change your child’s name. A judge is required to rule on these matters in St. Louis, and without the assistance of an attorney, there is a greater chance your petition will not be granted.

Your Kid’s Name Change

As a parent, you may find it difficult to accept that your child could be transgender. After all, at birth, your baby’s sex was determined by a doctor, and you gave your child the name you and your partner had carefully chosen. Then, you certainly raised them following the understanding that your child was either a boy or a girl.

If you find yourself in this situation, The Betz Law Firm can help. Petitioning for a name change can be confusing and challenging. This is because the laws and procedures for name changes can be complex. In addition, a name change for a minor can be more complicated since there are additional laws and legal standards to follow. And finally, emotions can get in the way of making clear decisions.

Minors Requests for a Legal Name Change

A minor is allowed to request a name change in St. Louis, but the petition will not be granted without both parents’ consent. If consent is not filed, proof must be shown that the parent or parents were notified of the petition and hearing through certified or registered mail.

What Information Will the Court Require?

As part of the petition, some requirements of a St. Louis family court must be included for the matter to be taken into consideration. This includes:

• 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 court’s name in which the action is pending.
• Proof that the legal name change will not harm any other person or persons.

Our team of family lawyers will help you fill out these documents according to St. Louis law and make sure that you have any and all supporting evidence that may be required.