Georgia Name Change

If you live in Georgia and would like to change your name, you might be surprised at the simplicity of the process. The proper form filed in your local superior court and payment of a fee will get you well on your way. Let us help by providing answers to some of the questions you may have about the process.

What forms are required for a Georgia name change?

The State of Georgia does not have a specific name change form. You must write your own petition to change the name, use a form prepared by a commercial service, or have an attorney write one for you. Click on the following link and search the Georgia State Code for more details: Georgia State Code on Lexis-Nexis (search for “§19-12-1”)

Where do I file the forms for a name change in Georgia?

The completed forms must be filed with the superior court clerk of the county where you currently live.

Do I need to notarize the forms?

Possibly, check with your local courthouse.

Is there a filing fee for a name change in Georgia?

Yes. Check with the clerk of the court to determine the cost. A fee waiver may generally be obtained with a showing of sufficient hardship.

Do I need to schedule a court hearing?

Check with your local superior court to determine whether a hearing is required.

Do I need to publish something in a local newspaper?

Yes. Notice of your proposed name chance must be published in the local newspaper within a week of filing your Petition, and must run at least once a week for four consecutive weeks.

Case Studies: Georgia Name Change

Case Study 1: John’s Smooth Name Change Process

John, a resident of Georgia, decided to change his name for personal reasons. He followed the proper procedure by writing a petition to change his name. He researched the Georgia State Code for guidance, specifically §19-12-1. John then filed the completed forms with the superior court clerk in his county of residence. After paying the required filing fee, he awaited further instructions from the court.

Outcome: John’s name change request was approved without any complications. He successfully changed his name through the Georgia court system.

Case Study 2: Lisa’s Notarization Inquiry

Lisa, another Georgia resident seeking a name change, was unsure if she needed to notarize her forms. To clarify this requirement, she contacted her local courthouse and spoke to a court representative. The representative informed her that notarization might be necessary but advised her to check with the specific superior court where she planned to file her forms.

Outcome: Lisa obtained the necessary information regarding notarization from her local courthouse, ensuring she followed the correct procedures during her name change process.

Case Study 3: Rachel’s Fee Waiver Request

Rachel, facing financial hardship, was concerned about the filing fee for her name change. She reached out to the clerk of the court to inquire about the possibility of obtaining a fee waiver. The clerk informed her that fee waivers were generally available for individuals who could demonstrate sufficient hardship.

Outcome: Rachel successfully obtained a fee waiver, allowing her to proceed with her name change process without financial burden.

Case Study 4: Mark’s Publication Requirement

Mark, a Georgia resident pursuing a name change, was unsure about the requirement to publish his proposed name change in a local newspaper. He approached his local superior court to seek clarification on this matter.

The court informed him that notice of the name change must be published in the local newspaper within a week of filing the petition, with weekly publication for four consecutive weeks.

Outcome: Mark understood the publication requirement and ensured compliance by publishing the notice in a local newspaper, as instructed by the court.