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Change of name
Our experienced Family Law Solicitors at Frodshams can help with the change of name process straightforward and stress-free, whether it’s for personal, family, or professional reasons. From completing the necessary documentation to ensuring it’s legally binding, we’re here to assist you at every step.
Why change your name?
There are many reasons why people may wish to change their name, including:
- Marriage or civil partnership: It’s common to change your name after marriage or a civil partnership to reflect a new family name.
- Divorce or separation: Some people wish to return to their previous name following a separation, or take on a new one altogether.
- Gender transition: Changing one’s name can be a significant step in aligning identity with gender.
- Personal preference or rebranding: You may simply prefer a different name or want a new identity to support your personal or professional brand.
- Family reasons: Changing a child’s surname or aligning family names can create a stronger sense of unity.
No matter the reason, our team can help ensure your name change is legally binding and fully recognised.
How can Frodshams Solicitors help?
Changing your name formally requires specific legal steps to ensure it’s accepted by banks, government offices, and other institutions. Frodshams Solicitors provides clear, professional support throughout this process, including:
- Drafting a Deed Poll: The Deed Poll is the most common and legally recognised method of changing your name in the UK. We’ll help draft this essential document, which certifies your new name and provides proof of the change.
- Enrolling your Deed Poll: While not required, enrolling a Deed Poll with the High Court makes your name change part of the public record. We can guide you through this option if you prefer a formal record.
- Updating legal documents: After formalising your name change, it’s essential to update records and documents, from your passport and driving licence to financial accounts and property deeds. Our team will advise on each step, ensuring a seamless transition.
Why choose Frodshams for your change of name?
At Frodshams, we recognise that a name change is a significant step and one that deserves professional, personalised support. Our family law solicitors handle every detail, from paperwork to procedural guidance, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. With our expert team by your side, you can rest assured that your change of name will be legally binding and officially recognised.
Contact us to start your name change journey today
How Much Does It Cost to Change Your Name?
At Frodshams Solicitors, we offer a fixed fee of £250 + VAT to prepare a Change of Name Deed. We will prepare a Change of Name Deed on your behalf that can be filed with all the relevant authorities.
When working with us for your change of name, you benefit from:
A solicitor who cares
We understand that a name change can be a deeply personal decision, especially during life transitions. Our solicitors offer compassionate, expert support tailored to your unique needs, ensuring you feel valued and reassured throughout the process.
Streamlined process
If you’re using our services for divorce or separation, allowing us to handle your name change simplifies your transition, taking one more task off your hands during a busy time.
Witnessed by a solicitor
Having a solicitor witness your deed poll provides you with maximum security and assurance that your name change is official and fully recognised.
Certified documentation
A Change of Name Deed is essential for proving your identity both now and in the future. With our solicitors handling the paperwork, you gain peace of mind through a professionally managed and certifiable audit trail.
Expert legal advice and support
Our team provides tailored advice to make sure your name change is handled correctly and that the right authorities are notified, helping you complete every step with confidence.
Frequently Asked Change of Name Questions
A Deed Poll is a legal document that serves as evidence of your name change. While it’s not legally required for everyone, it’s the most widely accepted way to formalise a name change, especially for updating official documents like your passport, driving licence, and bank accounts (See how to change name with your bank: Lloyds, Nationwide, Barclays, NatWest, Halifax, HSBC, Santander, RBS)
Yes, you can change a child’s name, but all individuals with parental responsibility must typically give their consent. If one parent does not consent, it may be necessary to apply to the court for permission. Our solicitors can guide you through this process.
While it’s possible to change your name without a solicitor, working with one provides added security. A solicitor can witness your Deed Poll, ensure that it meets legal requirements, and assist with updating relevant authorities and documents.
Once your Deed Poll is completed, you must inform each relevant authority (such as the passport office, DVLA, and financial institutions) individually. Our solicitors can advise on which organisations to notify and guide you through the update process.
No, enrolling a Deed Poll with the High Court is optional. However, some individuals choose to do so for additional formality, particularly for official purposes or creating a public record of the name change.
Many people choose to revert to their maiden name after a divorce. To legally change your name back, you’ll need a Change of Name Deed (Deed Poll) that can be submitted to relevant authorities, such as the DVLA, HMRC, and your GP. While you can use your maiden name informally among friends and family, your married name will remain your legal name on official records unless you formalise the change. Our solicitors can help you arrange a Change of Name Deed and guide you on updating your details with important authorities, offering the benefit of having your deed witnessed and officially certified.
No, changing your name after divorce is entirely optional. Some people prefer to revert to their maiden name, while others choose to keep their married name due to personal preferences, continuity for children, or other reasons. There is no legal requirement or time limit for making this decision, so You can change your name whenever you feel ready, even if it’s years after the divorce. Our team can provide personalised advice on the implications of changing or keeping your name after a separation.
Yes, if you no longer feel connected to your maiden or married name, you have the option to choose a completely new name. A solicitor can help prepare your name change via Deed Poll, allowing you to establish a fresh identity. This process is similar to reverting to a maiden name and requires the same formalities to ensure your new name is legally recognised.
