INSTRUCTIONS: NAME CHANGE PACKET (Adult) PC-NC-21.0A

In order for an adult to change their name in Franklin County, they need to live in the county continuously for at least a year.  If you’re filing pro se, the Probate Court clerk cannot answer any questions about filling out the forms.  The forms included in this packet include the following:

·   Notice to Name Change Applicants

·   Cost Bill-Name Change

·   Acknowledgement of Applicant Sanctions for Failure to Appear at Hearing

·   Application for Change of Name of Adult

·   Entry Setting Hearing and Ordering Notice

·   Judgment Entry-Change of Name of Adult

·   Certification of Judgment Entry

·   Adult Information Form

“Name Change Packet (Adult) PC-NC-21.0A Step 1”

The applicant needs to complete the first two lines of the caption on each necessary form.  Do not provide the case number.  The clerk will complete this section. 

“Name Change Packet (Adult) PC-NC-21.0A Step 2”

The forms are fairly straightforward and easy to fill out.  Complete all required sections of the forms and provide a signature using your current legal name at the bottom of each form.  If you’re using an attorney, make sure they provide their signature and information at the bottom of Application. 

“Name Change Packet (Adult) PC-NC-21.0A Step 3”

Make copies of the Application and Entry Setting Hearing and bring all completed forms to your county’s Probate Court.  Be prepared to pay the filing fees by cash, and the fees will either be $104.00 or $108.00. 

“Name Change Packet (Adult) PC-NC-21.0A Step 4”

The applicant is required to publish notice within a local newspaper.  Franklin County requires the applicant to file notice in the Columbus Dispatch or the Daily Reporter.  The publication must provide the date of the hearing.  The publication costs are the responsibility of the adult applicant, and publication is required at least 30 days before the hearing according to Ohio Revised Code 2717.01. 

“Name Change Packet (Adult) PC-NC-21.0A Step 5”

The newspaper will send an affidavit to the applicant or clerk for proof of publication.  If the applicant receives the affidavit, they need to submit the form to the clerk right away. 

“Name Change Packet (Adult) PC-NC-21.0A Step 6”

If the judge approves the change of name at the hearing, they will sign a Certification of Judgment Entry.  Make sure to receive certified copies so you can change important records.