South Carolina Name Change Instructions and Forms Package for a Minor
What is this form package?
The South Carolina Name Change Instructions and Forms Package for a Minor provides all the necessary legal documents and guidance to facilitate a minor's name change in South Carolina. This package is specifically designed for parents or guardians seeking to officially change a minor's name through the Family Court system. Unlike other generic name change forms, this package includes state-specific instructions, a complete list of required forms, and access to relevant legal summaries, ensuring compliance with South Carolina laws.
Documents contained in this package
When to use this form package
This package is ideal for situations where:
- A parent or guardian wishes to change the name of a minor child residing in South Carolina.
- A legal name change is needed due to personal circumstances, such as marriage, parental name changes, or cultural reasons.
- There is a proper and reasonable cause for the name change that does not aim to defraud creditors.
Who needs this form package
- Parents or legal guardians of a minor under 18 years of age.
- Individuals who have legal standing to file a petition for a name change of the minor.
- Anyone seeking to change the name of a minor for valid reasons recognized by South Carolina law.
Instructions for completing these forms
- Review all included forms and the instructions carefully.
- Gather necessary documentation, including a copy of the minor's birth certificate.
- Complete the forms using complete names; avoid initials.
- File the petition and accompanying documents in the appropriate Family Court.
- Attend the court hearing as directed, and be prepared to answer any questions from the court.
- Obtain a certified copy of the court order after the change is approved.
Notarization guidance for this package
Notarization is required for one or more forms in this package. US Legal Forms provides secure online notarization powered by Notarize, allowing you to complete the process through a verified video call.
Typical mistakes to avoid
- Forgetting to include a consent form from the non-joining parent if required.
- Failing to print multiple copies of the forms for filing and personal records.
- Submitting documents with misspelled names or incorrect information.
- Not following local court procedures or requirements specific to the county.
Why use this package online
- Convenient access to legal forms that can be downloaded and completed at your own pace.
- Instructional materials that guide you step-by-step through the name change process.
- Forms created by licensed professionals, ensuring legal compliance and reducing the risk of errors.
Form popularity
FAQ
If you have sole parental responsibility, you will be able to change your child's name without anyone else's consent or a Court approval. You will still need to seek legal advice from a solicitor to make a formal deed to change their name.
How much does it cost to change a name? For an adult, changing a name involves a $150 filing fee with the court for the petition.
How much does it cost to change a name? For an adult, changing a name involves a $150 filing fee with the court for the petition.
The parent files a petition with the county court requesting the name change. Pay the filing fee. Include the other parent as a party to the case. A guardian ad litum will be appointed by the court. The guardian will submit their report and recommendation to the court.
There is no cost. It is free to change the last name of a child during the course of a Family Court proceeding. There is, however, a $65 fee for filing for a name change in Civil Court and a $210 fee for Supreme Court.
If one parent will not agree to have a child's name changed, the other parent can file papers to request the change. The non-consenting parent must be served with copies of the name change papers and given a chance to object. A judge may or may not grant a child's name change without the other parent's consent.
In NSW, you can only change a child's name once in a 12 month period and 3 times in their lifetime. Whilst exceptions exist these are subject to the Registrar's personal approval. Both parents named on the child's birth certificate must apply to change their child's name.
The parent files a petition with the county court requesting the name change. Pay the filing fee. Include the other parent as a party to the case. A guardian ad litum will be appointed by the court. The guardian will submit their report and recommendation to the court.
