A Florida Change of Name is a legal process that allows individuals to change their name. The process is governed by the Florida Statutes, Chapter 68, which outlines the requirements for a successful name change. In Florida, individuals may change their first, middle, or last name, or any combination of those three. There are two types of Florida Change of Name: a court-ordered name change and a name change affidavit. A court-ordered name change requires a petition to be filed with the circuit court in the county where the petitioner resides. The petitioner must provide evidence of their identity and their current name, as well as a reason for the change. The court may also require a background check and may request a hearing. If the court approves the petition, a court order will be issued. A name change affidavit is a simplified process for changing a name. The petitioner must complete and sign an affidavit and have it notarized. The affidavit must include the petitioner's current name, the proposed new name, and a reason for the change. The affidavit must then be filed with the county clerk's office in the county where the petitioner resides. Upon filing, the name change is effective immediately.