Name Change

Making It Official: Understanding the Legal Name Change Process in Texas

Changing a name can represent a fresh start, honor a new chapter in life, or correct an error — but it’s more than just updating personal documents. In Texas, legal name changes require a formal process to ensure the change is fully recognized by courts, government agencies, and other institutions.

The Name Change Process in Texas

Whether you’re changing your own name, your child’s name, or returning to a prior name after divorce, the process typically involves:

  • Filing a petition for name change with the appropriate Texas court

  • Undergoing a criminal background check (in adult cases)

  • Attending a court hearing to finalize the request

  • Obtaining a signed court order to legally update your name

Once approved, the court order allows you to update your name on important documents like Social Security records, driver’s licenses, passports, bank accounts, and more.

Common Name Change Situations

Post-Divorce Name Restoration: Many people wish to return to their maiden name or a previous surname after a divorce. We handle the paperwork and court filings to make the process smooth.

Child Name Changes: If a child’s name needs to be updated for personal, family, or custody reasons, we guide parents through the necessary legal steps, ensuring the change is in the child’s best interests and compliant with Texas law.

Personal or Identity-Driven Name Changes: Whether for gender affirmation, cultural reasons, or personal preference, we help individuals through each stage of their legal name change journey.

Why Legal Help Matters

Although the process may seem straightforward, court requirements and paperwork errors can cause unnecessary delays or denials. Our firm ensures each detail is handled professionally so your name change is recognized without added stress.

Let Us Simplify the Process

If you're ready to change your name or your child’s, we’re here to help. Contact us today for experienced legal guidance, from filing the petition to securing your court order with ease.

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