Name Change
Experience Matters
Name Change Overview
Onello Law Group has successfully completed hundreds of “Name Change” requests in Las Vegas, Nevada. There are several contexts in which a Name Change is requested, but most of these requests fall into two categories: (1) a name change for a minor child, or (2) a name change for an adult. The first category tends to be more slightly complex because an individual that is petitioning to change a minor child’s name ordinarily must obtain consent from the other parent. Our office knows what to do in either scenario.
Name Changes for a Minor Child
Often, a “Name Change” request will be made in child custody proceeding in ordinary course. Often, a minor child born to unwed parties will bear the name of the birth mother if the parties were separated before the child was born, or if the second parent simply was not present at birth. If either parent files a custody matter with the Court, the unnamed parent (after custodial rights to the child are ascertained) can simply ask the court to order a “hyphenated” name thar reflects the last names of both parents. Of course, the Court must have jurisdiction over the “name change,” the subject matter of which is beyond the intended scope of this section.
Alternatively, an independent action for a name change (of a minor child) most often arises when one parent is less involved with the minor child and the more-involved parent has an interest in modifying the child’s last name. Sometimes, it is a decision based on “what’s right,” but most often it is because the more-involved parent has established a new family and seek to have the minor child bear the same name as their newly established family.
The easiest way to petition for a “Name Change” for a minor child is to obtain the verified consent of the other parent, which is often easier-said-than-done. If consent cannot be obtained because the other parent cannot be located, or the other parent outright opposes, that other parent must still be properly served the Petition, or at least attempted to be properly served. The notice requirement can be complicated, and this is where many individuals that attempt the “self-help” route get frustrated and give up. Our office has done many “Name Changes”, so we know exactly what to do. What is important to know is that if the other party objects to your petition (in a court filing), the matter will become a contested proceeding, and you will then be given the opportunity to explain to the judge why it is so important that the minor child’s name be changed. So long as it makes sense (and we will tell you in advance if it does), there is a high probability (than not) that the request will be granted.
Name Changes can require patience when the other parent cannot be located, as there are more “hoops” to jump through, so the court can ensure due process for the other parent. As with all things, patience pays off and there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Name Changes for an Adult
Given that an adult does not require consent of a parent to change their name, proceedings in this scenario are not often contested. There are some nuances to consider, and there are slightly different procedural rules for applicants that have a criminal record, but even individuals with a criminal record are given a fair opportunity by the Court. For those that fear public knowledge of their name change (in situations where safety is an issue), there are even some statutes that allow a Name Change to be granted under confidential proceedings.
What Does it Cost to Hire an Attorney for a Name Change?
Proceedings that involve a “Name Change” are one of our most affordable services because they can often be completed without a hearing. These services start at $1,000.00, and do not stray far from that price point. If a proceeding becomes contested (and if the objection by the other parent actually has merit), we usually factor this into our initial retainer with the client so that there are no surprises.
