Petition
The signed petition states the current name, requested new name, reasons for the change, and any criminal history or pending actions that could affect eligibility.
A complete Name Change Packet Indiana reduces delays, avoids common rejections, and helps ensure the court can schedule a hearing or issue an order without additional requests for documentation. Accurate packets minimize repeated trips to the clerk, lower the risk of fee forfeiture, and speed downstream updates to vital records, Social Security, and state agencies.
Individuals and representatives most commonly involved in Indiana name change cases include adults seeking a personal name change, parents petitioning for a minor, and legal guardians. These parties gather identity documents, complete the petition, and submit the packet to the county clerk or circuit court.
The petitioner is the person requesting the name change and must sign the petition under oath. For adults, the petitioner signs fact statements and verifies identity. If a petitioner cannot sign, a court may permit counsel or a guardian to act with proper authorization.
For minors, a parent or legal guardian signs on the child’s behalf. Courts may require both parents’ consent or evidence of notice when parental rights are at issue; guardians must attach proof of appointment and authority to petition.
The signed petition states the current name, requested new name, reasons for the change, and any criminal history or pending actions that could affect eligibility.
A proposed order for the judge to sign if the petition is granted; includes case caption and space for the judge's signature and date.
If state or county rules require public notice, include the notice draft and information about the newspaper and publication schedule.
Acceptable identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate; include certified copies when required by the clerk or court.
Documents showing current Indiana residency such as utility bills, lease, or state ID; some counties have specific acceptable documents.
Court cover sheet, filing fee payment method, and any local county forms or affidavits required at intake.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signature Type | Typed, drawn, or digital certificate depending on court acceptance |
| Authentication | Email link or multi-factor for higher-assurance filings |
| Notarization | In-person notarization or Remote Online Notarization if legal in county |
| File Format | Submit as PDF/A or PDF per court e-filing specs |
Courts and county clerks differ on acceptable eSignature and eFiling methods; confirm with the local clerk before submitting electronically.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
An adult files the petition with supporting ID and proof of residency
A parent files on a child’s behalf with consent forms from both parents when available