Minor Name Change Form

What is the minor name change?

The minor name change refers to the legal process by which a parent or guardian can change the name of their child under the age of eighteen in Ohio. This process is important for various reasons, including aligning a child's name with family identity or correcting a name that may have been misspelled at birth. The minor name change is typically initiated through a formal application to the court, which requires specific documentation and adherence to legal procedures.

Steps to complete the minor name change

Completing a minor name change in Ohio involves several key steps:

1. Gather required documents: Collect necessary documents, such as the child's birth certificate and any relevant identification for the parent or guardian.
2. File the application: Submit the minor name change application to the appropriate court. This may include filling out forms and paying a filing fee.
3. Notify interested parties: In some cases, you may need to notify other parties, such as the child's other parent, about the name change request.
4. Attend the court hearing: A court hearing may be scheduled where you will present your case for the name change. Be prepared to explain the reasons for the change.
5. Receive the court order: If the court approves the request, you will receive a court order that legally changes the child's name.

Legal use of the minor name change

The legal use of a minor name change is crucial for ensuring that the new name is recognized in all legal contexts. Once the court grants the name change, it becomes official, allowing the child to use the new name on all legal documents, including school records, medical records, and identification. It is important to keep the court order as proof of the name change, as this document may be required for future legal processes.

Required documents

To successfully complete a minor name change in Ohio, certain documents are typically required:

• Child's birth certificate: This document serves as proof of the child's identity and original name.
• Identification for the parent or guardian: A valid ID, such as a driver's license or passport, is necessary to verify the identity of the individual filing the application.
• Application form: The specific form for requesting a minor name change must be completed and submitted to the court.
• Any additional documentation: Depending on the circumstances, additional documents may be required, such as proof of residency or evidence of parental consent.

Eligibility criteria

Eligibility for a minor name change in Ohio generally includes the following criteria:

• The child must be under the age of eighteen.
• The parent or guardian filing the application must have legal custody of the child.
• The name change must be in the best interest of the child, which may involve demonstrating the reasons for the change to the court.

Application process & approval time

The application process for a minor name change in Ohio involves several steps, as previously outlined. After submitting the application, the approval time can vary. Typically, the court may schedule a hearing within a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the court's schedule and the complexity of the case. Once the hearing is held and the court issues a decision, the name change can be finalized, allowing the new name to be used legally.