How do I legally change my name in Colorado?
In Colorado, if you want to legally change your name, you need to follow a specific process outlined by the state law. This process does not apply to changing your last name after getting married or divorced, if you are the victim of child or domestic abuse, or for changing your name to reflect your gender identity. If these don’t apply to you, here's an overview of the steps involved in changing your name in Colorado:
Petition for Name Change: Begin by filing a Petition for Name Change with the district court in the county where you reside. The petition form can be obtained from the court clerk's office or their website. Ensure you provide accurate and complete information in the petition.
Background check: Colorado law requires that you undergo a fingerprint-based criminal background check for a name change. You will need to obtain a set of fingerprints from a law enforcement agency or an authorized fingerprint service provider. The fingerprints will be submitted to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for processing.
Complete the Petition: In the petition, you will need to include your current name, the desired new name, and the reasons for the name change. You may be required to provide additional documentation, such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or other relevant documents to support your request.
Notarize the Petition: Sign and notarize the petition in the presence of a notary public. The notary will verify your identity and acknowledge your signature.
File the Petition: Take the completed and notarized petition, along with any supporting documents, to the district court clerk's office. Pay the filing fee, which may vary by county. The clerk will provide you with a case number and set a hearing date.
Notice of Hearing: After filing the petition, you will need to publish a notice of the name change hearing in a designated newspaper in your county. The notice should include your current name, the desired new name, and the date of the hearing. The publication requirements may vary by county, so consult with the court clerk or review the local rules for specific instructions.
Attend the Hearing: On the scheduled hearing date, appear before the judge. The judge will review your petition and ask any necessary questions. If the judge approves your name change, they will issue an order granting the name change.
Update identification and records: Once you have the court order granting your name change, you will need to update your identification documents, such as your driver's license, Social Security card, passport, and any other relevant records (bank accounts, credit cards, etc.). Notify appropriate institutions and agencies of your new name.
It's important to note that this information provides a general overview of the name change process in Colorado, and specific requirements and procedures may vary by county. It is recommended to consult with an attorney or seek guidance from the court clerk in your county for detailed instructions and assistance throughout the name change process.
