Legal Name Change in Sarasota
Changing your legal name is a straightforward process in Florida, but it requires a court order. Whether you are changing your name after a divorce, reclaiming a maiden name, changing a child's name, or changing your name for personal reasons, we handle the paperwork and court hearing so you can focus on your new chapter.
At Bragg Family Law, we help Sarasota residents navigate the name change process efficiently and correctly.
Types of Name Changes
Name Change After Divorce
If you want to resume your maiden name or a prior name after divorce, the court can include the name change in the final judgment of dissolution of marriage. This is the simplest path because no separate petition is needed. You simply request it during the divorce proceedings.
If your divorce is already final and you did not change your name at the time, you can still file a separate name change petition.
Adult Name Change
Any adult can petition the court for a name change in Florida under Florida Statutes Section 68.07. You do not need a specific reason. Common reasons include:
- Resuming a maiden name after divorce (if not done in the divorce decree)
- Changing a name to match your gender identity
- Adopting a stepfather's or stepmother's name
- Simplifying or changing a name for personal or professional reasons
Child Name Change
Changing a child's name requires a separate petition. If both parents consent, the process is straightforward. If one parent objects, the court holds a hearing and determines whether the name change is in the child's best interests. The court considers factors like the child's age, the relationship with each parent, and the potential impact on the child.
The Name Change Process in Sarasota
Step 1: Filing the Petition
We file a Petition for Change of Name with the Sarasota County circuit court. The petition includes your current name, the name you want, your date of birth, your social security number, and a statement that you are not seeking the name change for fraudulent or illegal purposes.
Step 2: Fingerprinting and Background Check
Florida requires a national criminal history check for adult name changes. You must be fingerprinted by an authorized agency, and the results are submitted to the court. This ensures the name change is not being used to evade criminal records or creditors.
Step 3: Final Hearing
The court schedules a brief hearing where you appear before a judge to confirm your request. The judge reviews the petition, the background check results, and asks you a few questions. If everything is in order, the judge signs an order granting the name change.
Step 4: Updating Your Records
Once the court grants the name change, you need to update your records with:
- Social Security Administration
- Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (driver's license)
- Passport (if applicable)
- Banks and credit card companies
- Employer
- Insurance providers
- Voter registration
- Schools (for children)
We provide you with certified copies of the court order to submit to each agency.
How Long Does a Name Change Take?
The timeline depends on how quickly the background check is completed and the court's hearing schedule. Most name changes in Sarasota take 4 to 8 weeks from filing to the final order.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a legal name change cost in Sarasota?
The court filing fee is approximately $400. The fingerprinting and background check costs approximately $75. Attorney fees depend on whether the name change is contested (especially for child name changes). We offer free consultations to discuss your situation and provide a cost estimate.
Can I change my child's name without the other parent's consent?
You can file the petition, but the other parent must be served with notice. If they object, the court holds a hearing and decides based on the child's best interests. If the other parent cannot be located, you must show the court that you made a diligent effort to find them.
Can I resume my maiden name after divorce?
Yes. The easiest way is to request it in your divorce decree. If your divorce is already final, you can file a separate name change petition under Section 68.07.
Will a name change affect my credit or criminal record?
No. The background check ensures your new name is linked to your old identity. Your credit history and criminal record follow you regardless of your name. Creditors and law enforcement can connect the names through your social security number.
Can I change my name to anything I want?
Almost. The court will deny a name change if it is intended to defraud creditors, evade criminal prosecution, or interfere with the rights of others. Names with numbers, symbols, or offensive content may also be rejected. Otherwise, you have broad discretion.
Speak With a Sarasota Name Change Attorney
If you need to change your name or your child's name, we can handle the process for you. Call us at (941) 893-1555 or schedule a free consultation.