The forms in this packet need filed with the District Court Office in the county you reside. The following forms are included in this packet:
· Petition for Name Change
· Order Setting Hearing
· Notice of Hearing on Name Change
· Order for Name Change
“MT Name Change Packet (Adult) Step 1”
While filling out the forms in this packet, make sure to complete the headings. Fill in all the blanks, and make sure to sign and date all of the forms as well.
“MT Name Change Packet (Adult) Step 2”
Make a copy of each form after you’ve filled out the form. Keep the copies for yourself and bring the completed forms to the District Court Clerk.
“MT Name Change Packet (Adult) Step 3”
File the Petition, Order, and Notice of Hearing with the Clerk and pay the filing fees. If you cannot afford the filing fees, you can fill out an Affidavit of Inability to Pay. Make sure you provide the Clerk with a stamped and self-addressed envelope.
“MT Name Change Packet (Adult) Step 4”
Ask the Clerk to send two conformed copies of the Order to the judge to have them signed. Give your copies of the forms to the Clerk and have them stamped. Keep these records if they are needed in the future.
“MT Name Change Packet (Adult) Step 5”
After the judge sets a date for the hearing, you need to publish the Notice of Hearing in a local newspaper. The publication needs to run for four consecutive weeks before the hearing. After the Notice has been published, the newspaper will send a receipt of when the Notice was published. Make a copy of the receipt and bring the original with your to the hearing.
“MT Name Change Packet (Adult) Step 6”
Complete the Order for Name Change and make a copy. Bring the original with you to the hearing.
“MT Name Change Packet (Adult) Step 7”
Arrive to the courthouse for the hearing at least 15 minutes early and bring all stamped copies and the original Order for Name Change. The judge will likely ask you several questions pertaining to why you want to change your name. Once the change of name is approved, ask the Clerk for any number of certified copies of the Order to change important documents.
