INSTRUCTIONS: PETITION TO CHANGE MINOR NAME CAO 12-1A

The Petition for a minor’s change of name is fairly simple to complete.  A Notice of Hearing, Order for Name Change, and Name Change Letter for Publication are required along with the Petition as well. 

“Petition to Change Minor Name CAO 12-1A Step 1”

Complete the heading of the petition.  Provide the full name of the petitioner, the full mailing address, and telephone number.  Provide the district number and the name of the county.  Do not provide the case number; only provide the current legal name of the child. 

“Petition to Change Minor Name CAO 12-1A Step 2”

In part 1, check the appropriate box.  Make sure you address is correct at the top of the form. 

“Petition to Change Minor Name CAO 12-1A Step 3”

In part 2, provide the minor’s full date of birth (including month, day, and year), the city where they were born along with the county and state, and the current address of the minor. 

“Petition to Change Minor Name CAO 12-1A Step 4”

In part 3, check the appropriate box.  If the father or mother is not living, provide names and addresses of the closest blood relatives. 

“Petition to Change Minor Name CAO 12-1A Step 5”

In part 4, state the proposed name of the minor and reasoning why the name needs changed.  

“Petition to Change Minor Name CAO 12-1A Step 6”

In part 5, state what newspaper in which you want the Notice of Hearing published.  Sign the bottom of the form in front of Notary Public. 

“Petition to Change Minor Name CAO 12-1A Step 7”

File all necessary forms with the clerk and pay the filing fees.  If you cannot afford the filing fees, you can fill out Form FW 1-9.  Bring a copy of the Petition with you and two copies of the Notice of Hearing. 

“Petition to Change Minor Name CAO 12-1A Step 8”

Publish the Notice of Hearing once a week for four consecutive weeks in the newspaper named in the Petition.  The newspaper will provide an Affidavit of Publication after publication is completed. 

“Petition to Change Minor Name CAO 12-1A Step 9”

After the clerk receives the Affidavit, a hearing will occur.  The hearing is usually short and informal.  Once the judge approves the change of name, he or she will sign the Order.