Name Change Due to Privacy Concerns
When a Name Change Petition is filed, it can automatically be found in a database accessible to the public. Furthermore, once the name change is official, it must be publicized in a local paper or media outlet. For some, a name change is vital for their privacy, to protect themselves from identity theft, fraud or a domestic abuse situation. Having to publicly claim a name change can jeopardize one’s safety and wellbeing. In these special cases, a sealed name change can be filed and approved. These requests cannot be found in public record and if the name change is approved, will leave no public trail. A lawyer can help you fight to keep your name change petition under seal.
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Avoiding Fraud through Name ChangeFiling for a sealed name change will start with your file being put under review. Your request for a name change will remain undisclosed until the court’s final judgement on the sealed request. If a court finds your safety or well-being in danger, they will proceed with the sealed name change proceeding.
If approved, one will not have to ever publicly proclaim their name change, and if the change is denied, their request will still be kept closed to the general public. A sealed name change can be a complicated process, and having an attorney to speak to the courts on your behalf, may assist in moving your sealed name change forward. |
A lawyer experienced with the legal name change process can help you avoid common pitfalls that can cause a denial of the petition. Contact us to learn how we can help.
