Who may apply to have a name changed?
If you are an adult and regularly reside in a city or county, you may apply to the circuit court in the city or county in which you reside. If you are an adult and do not have a regular residence, you may apply to any circuit court in Virginia. If you are incarcerated in Virginia, you may apply to the circuit court in the city or county in which you are incarcerated.

If you are applying on behalf of your child, reasonable notice must be served to the other parent. If the other parent objects, a hearing must be held to determine if the name change is in the best interests of the child. In the event that a circuit court judge finds that notice to the other parent may endanger the child, the judge may waive the requirement for notice.

Show All Answers

1. Who may apply to have a name changed?
2. What is needed in the application for a name change?
3. What should I do if my request for a name change is granted?