Changing your legal name in Lancaster County requires steps and fees to be prepared to pay. The process can be confusing. However, an attorney can advise you on what you need to do or represent you and request that the court change your name on your behalf, if you prefer.
What do I need to do to change my name?
First, you must file a petition to change your name, which is your request to the court and the county for a name change. Following that, you must file an older for publication and a decree. You will also be responsible for paying a filing fee when you file your petition.
Residency requirement
For your petition to be approved, you must be a resident of Lancaster for at least five years. If you have not been a resident of Lancaster for at least five years, you must provide the county with a search from every county in which you have resided.
Publishing requirement
You will then have to publish your name change in both the Lancaster Law Review and the most prominent newspaper where you live in Lancaster. The court requires this, and the court will only approve your name change if you provide proof of publication at your hearing.
Reason for the name change
The entire process can vary in difficulty depending on the reason for your name change. If you are changing your children’s names, you will need to file additional forms.
Changing your name in Lancaster County can be a lengthy and time-consuming ordeal. While it is necessary to do this sometimes, you must be prepared to dedicate the time and effort or request that an experienced professional request a name change on your behalf.