Court filing fees change often, so contact the court clerk to verify the current fee and about their payment methods. Each court has its own rules on payment and many courts do not accept personal checks or credit cards. A money order or cash in the exact amount may be your only options. If you cannot pay the filing fee, the court may waive it by a showing of good cause. Print out and complete a financial statement called a Pauper’s Affidavit and include it when you file your application. The judge will accept or reject it before issuing your name change order. The judge may also require proof of your income and expenses. [3] X Research source
Include both your exact legal name as shown on your birth certificate and the exact legal name you are requesting from the court. Do not use nicknames or initials or they will become part of your new legal name. For example, say “Thomas Daniel Smith,” instead of “Tom D. Smith. " Include the registration number from your birth certificate. If you do not have a copy of your birth certificate, you will need to contact the vital records department of the state or county where you were born and order a certified copy. [5] X Trustworthy Source USA. GOV Official website for the United States federal government Go to source Add a concise, no more than one sentence, reason why you want to change your name. For example, “I was adopted as a child and want to go back to my birth name,” or “I want to take my grandfather’s name as my middle name. " Keep it clear and simple.
The judge will only waive publication of your notice if it would put you in danger. If you are a victim of domestic violence, at the time of filing, ask the court clerk about going before the judge to ask for a publication waiver and to seal the case. [13] X Research source
Behave professionally in court. For example, Rule 9 of the Tulsa district court includes, standing when speaking, do not sit on the tables, no food or drinks in the courtroom, and to not approach the judge unless instructed. This rule is typical of all counties. [15] X Research source Dress conservatively with shirts tucked in and buttons fastened. You should remove your facial jewelry and cover tattoos. Do not wear t-shirts with designs, flip-flops, sports jerseys, halter tops, jeans shorts, pajamas, gym clothing, or any garments that could be misinterpreted by court personnel as being gang-affiliated. Remove hats before entering the courtroom. Leave your cellphones in the car. Cellphones and pagers are generally not allowed in the courtroom even when turned off. They may be subject to confiscation. Photos, videos, and voice recording devices are not allowed in the courtroom. Arrange for childcare before the hearing. Judges will generally not allow children in the courtroom.
