To legally change your name in Illinois, you first need to file a Petition for Name Change in the circuit court in the county where you live. You can obtain this form from the circuit clerk's office or on their website. The form will require you to provide your current legal name, the new name you would like to adopt, and the reason for the name change.
Once you have filled out the form, you must have it notarized and file it with the circuit clerk's office along with a filing fee. The fee amount varies by county, so you should check with your local circuit clerk's office to determine the exact fee.
After filing the petition, you will need to obtain approval from the court to legally change your name. You will be required to attend a court hearing, where a judge will review your petition and may ask you questions about the reason for the name change.
Once the court approves your name change, you will need to obtain a certified copy of the court order and use it to update your identification documents such as your driver's license, passport, and social security card.
It is important to note that there are certain limitations and exceptions to changing your name in Illinois. For example, if you are changing your name for fraudulent purposes or to avoid legal obligations, the court may deny your petition. Additionally, if you owe child support, the court may require you to provide proof that you are current on your payments before approving your name change.
If you have any questions about changing your name in Illinois or if you encounter any issues during the process, it is recommended that you seek the advice of a licensed attorney who can provide personalized legal advice based on your specific situation.
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