Contracts, affidavits, and other legal documents need to be witnessed by a legal third party for various reasons. But the main reason for a legal document witness is to ensure that the signatures on the papers are authentic.
There are multiple ways to legalize a document. A well-known notary service in Cerritos has helped several individuals get their documents notarized within the comfort of their home and office. Mobile notary services are the real savior when it comes to saving your valuable time and money.
But what if you want to go for a name change? Individuals can legally change their names for a variety of reasons. One can go for a change in their first, middle, or last names.
In the United States, people have the legal right to change their names at any point in time, provided there’s no intention of deceiving or defrauding the other parties. The role of the notary public becomes crucial here. Understandably, the process of legally changing the name can take some time and patience, and a trusted notary service, like the notary service in Cerritos, can ease your task to a certain extent.
6 Things to Know Before a Name Change
Are you also wondering what’s in a name change? Your name defines your identity, but it also holds a more personal essence than just establishing a sense of identity.
A name might give you a sense of pride and help you stand out from the crowd. Whatever the reason for a name change is, it is essential to keep in mind that the documents are legalized correctly.
Before you undergo the legal procedure, there are a few things you should be aware of.
1. Be prepared to be patient.
Changing your name isn’t a one-stop shop. It’s not as simple as submitting a form and getting a new name. Taking this step requires you to be patient because the journey is somewhat long.
2. Exceptions to changing your name.
Laws govern what name you can give yourself. You can always pick up something unique, but there are a few rules you need to abide by.
Most states do not allow you to alter your name to an intentionally misleading one, like that of a celebrity. You also cannot change to escape criminal liability, hide from debt, or commit a crime. Numerals in your name are also prohibited though some states have permitted the use of period.
Individuals should not use names that are intimidating or offensive.
3. Marriage or divorce can make it easier.
When you get married or divorced changing your name is simpler because you don’t have to go through the court petition process.
In marriage, all you need to do is show your certificate of marriage to the intuition as proof of your new last name.
In divorce, getting your maiden name back will be included in the divorce proceedings itself.
4. Triple check.
The last thing you would want to do after going through the entire process of changing your name is to realize you misspelled it!
A triple or quadruple check would be good for you to avoid the embarrassment and hassles of sending out official documents with your misspelled name.
5. You don’t need to hire a lawyer.
Showing up at the court or completing the paperwork can seem daunting. But you don’t need to hire a lawyer to get your work done.
Filing the petition can be simple. However, if you feel overwhelmed while navigating, you can get in touch with a professional for instructions and help.
6. Common reasons people change their names
While marriage and divorce can be the two most common reasons to change names, people undergoing a sex change also change their moniker.
Steps to Get Your Name Changed
The first step to changing your name is to find a certified and knowledgeable notary. The notary service in Cerritos, like the renowned Moments Notary Service, can get your job done at the comfort of your place. The experts will save time, simplify your tasks, and clear your doubts regarding the process.
Step 1: Filing Petition
In the presence of a certified notary, you must sign your petition. Once done, there might be additional procedures.
Step 2: Fingerprints
When seeking a name change, some states require a criminal background check. This is done to ensure that you are not changing your name to escape or hide from crime. You are required to have your fingerprints taken before appearing in court.
Step 3: Attend Hearing
After getting your fingerprint card, copy all of the documents required to establish a legal name change. Then, attach it to your petition and appear before the court for a hearing.
Step 4: Advertisement
Some states may require people to go for a formal advertisement in the local newspaper.
Step 5: Change of Name Certificate
You will need to obtain a certified copy of your Order to change your name. This document will also be used to prove your new identity with various agencies.
To ease your name-changing process, the first and foremost thing to do is to find an efficient notary service in Cerritos and get started with the task you have been delaying.
Sure, changing your name would require some adjusting, and you may find it awkward in the beginning. However, the crucial thing is that your new name reflects the identity you feel is right for you.