This document states the reasons and other required details for your name change.
The Houston Texas Petition for Change of Name for Family is a legal document that allows individuals residing in Houston, Texas, to seek a change of name for themselves or their family members through a formal court process. This petition is filed in the state of Texas and specifically in Harris County, where Houston is located. A name change can be sought for various reasons, including but not limited to marriage, divorce, adoption, personal preferences, cultural or religious reasons, or correcting errors or discrepancies in legal documents. The Houston Texas Petition for Change of Name for Family provides a legal avenue to ensure that the name change is recognized and enforced. There are several types of Houston Texas Petition for Change of Name for Family, each addressing different scenarios and specific requirements. These may include: 1. Adult Name Change: This petition allows individuals aged 18 or above to change their own legal name. It typically requires the petitioner to provide valid reasons for seeking the name change, provide their current and desired name, and disclose any criminal history or involvement in court proceedings. 2. Minor Name Change: This type of petition is filed on behalf of a minor (under the age of 18) by their parent or legal guardian. It requires additional documentation, such as proof of parental rights or guardianship, and the consent of both parents (if applicable). The court's primary consideration is the best interest of the child. 3. Family Name Change: This petition allows for a change of surname (last name) for an entire family unit. It can be filed by the head of the family or jointly by all family members. This type of name change is often sought after weddings, divorces, or adoptions to ensure consistency within the family. To initiate the Houston Texas Petition for Change of Name for Family, the petitioner must complete the appropriate form, which may be obtained from the Harris County District Court or downloaded from their official website. The completed form should include personal information, current and desired names, reason for the name change, and any supporting documents (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, birth certificate, etc.). Once the petition is completed, it must be filed with the appropriate filing fee at the Harris County District Court. The court will then assign a hearing date, and the petitioner must provide notice of the name change request to anyone who may be affected by it, such as creditors, ex-spouses, or other interested parties. This typically involves publishing a notice in a local newspaper for a designated period. During the hearing, the court will consider the petitioner's request, review any objections or supporting evidence, and ensure that the name change is in the best interest of the petitioner or the family members involved. If approved, the court will issue an official order granting the name change, which can be used to update legal documents such as identification cards, social security records, passports, and other pertinent records. It is important to note that name changes cannot be sought for fraudulent purposes or to evade legal obligations. The Houston Texas Petition for Change of Name for Family aims to provide a fair and transparent process for individuals and families to effectively change their legal names while upholding the integrity of the legal system.
