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How Can I Change My Name?
Most individuals have the right to use and have recorded any name or combination
of names they choose. Married women have the right to use their maiden names,
a combination of their maiden name and their husband's name, or a name unrelated
to either. Parents have the right to give their children a surname that may be
that of either parent, a combination of both, or even one that is different from
that of either parent.
If you want your name changed, you have three options.
Your personal situation and finances will help you decide which method is
most appropriate.
By "Common Law"
There is a common law procedure for changing your name. In order to utilize
this process you should notify all agencies and institutions in writing that
your name is changed. This includes Social Security, university registration,
driver's license and car registration, bank accounts, credit cards, leases,
employment records, etc. You may have to pay a fee for some of these changes.
You also may run into a hassle with some places who won't process the change
without court papers, even though you are not legally required to go through
that process. If this happens, you may appeal the decision of the administrative
agent within that agency, or you may change your name in court as described
below. Again, your life situation should determine which option you pursue.
By Divorce Decree
The court has authority to grant an order, upon request, allowing a woman
or man to resume her or his former name as part of the divorce process.
By Court Action
Changing one's name through ASUO Legal Services is a simple process which
takes approximately six weeks. This may take longer and depends on the office
workload, schedule, and the attorney's schedule. One may use almost any name
one wishes; however, many people desire to take a new legal name.
This information
is not intended to provide legal advice. Any PSU student taking at least
4 undergraduate or 3 graduate credits who has questions about name changes
may call PSU Student Legal & Mediation Services to arrange an appointment.
What
is Mediation?
Mediation is a voluntary and private settlement process emphasizing informed
decision-making and mutually acceptable agreements. Mediation provides an
alternative to the win-lose approach of the adversarial legal system. It
is practical, informed, highly focused on the issues to be resolved, and
involves mutual problem-solving.
SLMS helps parties clarify their disputes,
communicate clearly, determine their needs and interests, consider options
for settlement, and reach fair agreements. Written agreements are prepared
where appropriate or desired.
In general, mediation will be confidential.
If a settlement is reached, SLMS will provide the necessary paperwork to
turn the agreement into a court order.
What mediation services are offered by Student Legal and Mediation Services?
SLMS
can provide mediation services to students who qualify for legal services. However,
unlike legal services, SLMS can provide mediation services to conflicts between
students, students and PSU Faculty, and students and PSU administration.
Information disseminated in this website does not constitute
legal advice and does not create an attorney/client relationship. This
page is for information purposes only. For legal advice, contact an attorney
licensed in your state.
