In most jurisdictions, adoption decrees contain a provision changing the child's surname to reflect that of her new family. If you would like to change the child's first and middle name, however, you will need to request this separately, either in the initial petition for adoption or at a later date, through a petition for name change. Although name change matters are simple and may not require a court hearing, if you are requesting to change the name of an older child who understands the implications of a name change, the judge may wish to hear from her and verify that she agrees with the decision.
Instructions
1. Add a name change provision to your adoption decree. If you have not finalized your child's adoption, amend your petition to include a provision requesting a name change for your child.
2. Readopt the child in the United States if you initially adopted her abroad. If you have already finalized your overseas adoption and would like to change your child's name, you can do so by readopting your child in the state where you live. In addition to beginning a name change, the readoption petition will ensure that your adoption complies with U.S. and state adoption laws.
3. File a separate name change petition with the court. After any adoption has been finalized, you may change the child's name by opening a new name change matter in the court. Your petition will need to state your reasons for changing the child's name at this later date.
4. Prove that your child agrees to take on the new name. If you wish to change the first and middle name of an older child or teenager, prepare her to attend court to discuss her opinion on the name change.
5. Use your name change documents to request a new birth certificate, Social Security card and passport. After you have received a court order changing your adopted child's name, you can use a certified copy of the court order to request new identifying documents for your child.
Tags: name change, your child, change your, change child, change your child, changing child