The law in England and Wales allows everyone the right to change their name to what they wish, providing they are not trying to defraud anyone as a result or achieve some other criminal objective. Nonetheless, most organisations understandably require some formal documentation. A Change of Name Deed will achieve this.
Whether it is a matter of making minor adjustments to one’s current name, reverting back to one’s maiden name or taking on a new name altogether we can assist you with this providing you are based in England.
Do I need a Deed Poll through the Royal Courts of Justice?
Almost certainly not. There is almost always nothing to be gained by advertising one’s change of name by Deed Poll through the Royal Courts of Justice. Indeed the judiciary have criticised the very procedure because it puts on public record one’s previous and new names, which can among other things risking “outing” transgender people. The phrase “deed poll” has unhelpfully worked its way into common parlance, much like common-law husband/wife. It is generally only needed for the purposes of registering your name in certain other countries. The process is cumbersome and slow. We do not offer this service. It is generally only needed if the application has to be approved by an English Court because one parent does not consent or if someone has dual nationality and the rules of the other country insist on seeing a Deed Poll. If you wish to register a Deed Poll please follow this procedure.
Changing children’s names
Changing the name of children under the age of 16 requires the consent of all parties who have parental responsibility. This can make matters more complicated because of the practicalities of obtaining signatures from both adults. If the agreement of everyone with parental responsibility to the name change cannot be agreed an application for a specific issue order will need to be made in order for the name change to take place legally.
Our service
We can draft a Change of Name Deed, provide you with 20 certified copies (which most of the various organisations will need) and provide an explanatory letter of advice as to how to notify the various organisation (each has its own procedures) for the sum of £160 plus VAT (£192 in total). This Change of Name Deed will be accepted by HMRC, the Passport Office, the DVLA, banks and utility providers. We can witness your signature at our High Wycombe office or alternatively send you the Change of Name Deed for signing, with instructions and a stamp addressed envelope for you to return the document so we can quickly provide certified copies.
Please contact us today for a free no obligation telephone discussion by calling either our London, Marlow or High Wycombe offices or by email: changeofname@curzongreen.co.uk