Name Change in Dorchester County

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There are many possible reasons why people change their names. Some may change their name due to marriage, divorce, or adoption. Others may change their name because they want a fresh start or to distance themselves from their past. Some may even change their name for professional reasons, such as to better market themselves in a certain field. Whatever the reason may be, changing one's name is a personal decision and can be a significant event in one's life.

The process of changing involves filing a Name Change Petition with the court, providing the required documentation, and paying a fee. The court will then review the petition and, if approved, issue a court order officially changing your name. Once the court order is received, you will need to update your name on documents, such as your driving license, passport, and social security card. It is important to follow the proper process to ensure that your name change is recognized and valid.

Filing Name Change Case in Dorchester County

Fill out the Petition for Change of Name form. You can obtain this form from the courthouse or online at the Dorchester County Courts website.

1. Make copies of your completed petition. You will need to file the original petition and two copies with the court.
2. File the original petition and copies with the Circuit Court. You will need to pay a Name Change Filing Fee.
3. Once you have filed your petition, you will need to publish notice of your name change in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where you reside. You will need to do this once a week for four weeks.
4. After the notice has been published, you will need to attend a hearing in front of a judge. The judge will ask you questions about your reason for changing your name and will also ask if you have any outstanding debts or judgments against you.
5. If the judge approves your name change, you will need to get a certified copy of the court order and update your identification, such as your driver's license and Social Security card, with your new name.

Name Change Filing Criteria in Dorchester County

In Dorchester County, you can file for a name change if you are over the age of 18 and are a resident of the state. You will need to complete and submit a name change petition to the circuit court.

The petition must include your current name, the name you want to change to, and the Reason For The Name Change. You will also need to provide fingerprints and complete a criminal background check.

Furthermore, if you are changing your name due to marriage or divorce, you will need to provide a copy of your marriage certificate or divorce decree. If you are changing your name for other reasons, you may be required to provide additional documentation.

Once you have submitted your petition, you will need to attend a hearing in court, where a judge will review your application and make a decision. If the judge approves your name change, you will need to obtain a certified copy of the court order and update your name with the relevant government agencies and other organizations.

Petition Filling for Individual Name Change in Dorchester County

To file a petition for individual name change in Dorchester County, you'll need to follow these steps:

• Obtain a petition for name change form from the Circuit Court Clerk's Office in the county.
• Fill out the petition form with your current name, the name you wish to change to, and the reason for the Name Change.
• Sign the petition form in the presence of a notary public.
• File the completed petition form with the Circuit Court Clerk's Office along with the filing fee.
• Publish a notice of the name change in a local newspaper for four consecutive weeks.
• Attend a court hearing and present evidence of your name change request (e.g. proof of identification, marriage certificate, etc.).
• If approved, the court will issue an order granting your name change.

Procedure of Filling Name Change Petition in Dorchester County

Here are the steps to file a name change petition in Dorchester County:

• Obtain the necessary forms: You can download the name change petition form from the Dorchester County Judiciary website or you can obtain a copy from the circuit court.
• Fill out the forms: Fill out the forms completely and accurately. Be sure to include all required information.
• Notarize the forms: Once you have completed the forms, you must have them notarized. You can find a notary public at most banks, courthouses, and government agencies.
• File the forms: File the completed and notarized forms with the circuit court. You will need to pay a filing fee at this time.
• Publish notice of the name change: After filing the forms, you will need to publish notice of the name change in a local newspaper. The newspaper will provide you with an affidavit of publication, which you will need to file with the circuit court.
• Attend the hearing: The final step is to attend a hearing in front of a judge. The judge will ask you questions about why you want to change your name and will then grant or deny your petition.

Cost of Name Change in Dorchester County

The cost of a name change in Dorchester County may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case. As of August 2021, the filing fee for a name change petition in Dorchester County is $165. However, there may be additional fees associated with the name change process, such as fees for fingerprinting or publication of the notice, which can vary depending on the county where the change is taking place. Name Change Maryland is a reputable company with a group of experts who serve and guide you through your Name Change Needs in Dorchester County. Our services are cost effective and pocket friendly. With Name Change Maryland you will get your name changed in no time.

Will Changing Your Name Change Your Identity in Dorchester County?

Changing your name in Dorchester County can change your identity in the sense that your official Adult Name Change documents and records will reflect your new name. However, your core identity is not necessarily tied to your name. It's up to you to decide if changing your name will have a significant impact on your sense of self or identity. If you wish to change the name of your own choice, it is not a dream but our professional team at Name Change Maryland will help you to fulfill your dream.

Steps to File a Name Change in Dorchester County

Obtain a petition for name change form, You can get this from the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office or you can download it from the Dorchester County court website.

• Fill out the petition form: Make sure to provide your current name, the new name you are requesting, and the reason for the change.
• Notarize the petition form: You will need to sign the form in front of a notary public, who will then sign and stamp the form.
• Pay the filing fee: The amount varies by county, so check with your local Circuit Court Clerk’s Office for the current fee.
• File the petition form with the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office: You will need to submit the original petition form and a copy.
• Attend the name change hearing: The court will schedule a hearing within a few weeks of filing the petition. During the hearing, you will need to present your case for why you want to change your name. If the court approves your request, you will receive a court order granting the name change.
• Update your records: Once you have the court order, you will need to update your name on all documents.

How Much Time Is Required To Change Your Name in Dorchester County?

The time required to change a name in Dorchester County depends on several factors, including the complexity of the case and the court's schedule. Generally, it takes about 2 to 3 months to complete the entire process. However, it can take longer if there are any complications or if additional Name Change Documents are required. It is important to note that the process can be expedited in certain circumstances, such as for a name change due to marriage or divorce. If you have any specific questions or concerns, it is best to contact Name Change Maryland professionals for more information.