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Name Change Attorney in Columbus, Ohio Legal Name Changes That Reflect Your Life Circumstances

When you need to legally change your name in Ohio, our Columbus family law attorneys can guide you through the court process efficiently and with clarity.

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20+ Years
of proven results

Navigating Ohio's Name-Change Process with Confidence

At Dailey Law Offices, we understand that pursuing a legal name change is an important personal decision. Our team can handle the legal process with due care, ensuring that your petition meets all statutory requirements and procedural standards.

Since 2004, attorney Stephanie N. Dailey has assisted countless Ohio residents with name-change applications in Franklin County and surrounding jurisdictions. Her practical understanding of probate court procedures and attention to detail will guarantee that your request is handled properly, from the initial filing to the final court order.

Here's what makes our approach successful:

  • Thorough document preparation: We’ll make sure your name-change application includes all required information and supporting documents.
  • Procedural knowledge: Understanding what constitutes reasonable and proper cause under Ohio law increases the likelihood of approval.
  • Streamlined filing process: We’ll handle all court filings, publication requirements, and hearing procedures so you don't have to navigate the legal system alone.
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Comprehensive Name-Change Services Across Ohio

Dailey Law Offices handles adult name-change petitions, minor child name modifications, and post-decree name-restoration matters throughout Ohio's probate courts.

  • Family Mediation

    Adult Name-Change Petitions

    We assist individuals seeking legal name changes for marriage, personal preference, gender identity, or other legitimate reasons. Our team will prepare your petition diligently, documenting reasonable and proper cause, managing publication in newspapers of general circulation, and representing you at probate court hearings if required.

  • LGBT Family Law

    Minor Child Name Changes

    When a minor child requests or requires a name change, we guide parents through consent requirements, prepare necessary filings, and prioritize compliance with Ohio county probate court procedures. We address custody considerations and obtain proper authorization from all required parties.

  • Stepparent Adoption

    Post-Decree Name Modifications

    Many people choose to restore a previous name after dissolution or annulment of marriage. We help streamline this process through efficient court-order requests and coordination with the Ohio Department of Health and Social Security Administration for record updates.

Start the Process of Changing Your Name Today

Your legal identity matters. Schedule a consultation with Dailey Law Offices and let us take care of the filing fees, publication requirements, and court procedures required for your Ohio name change.

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or call
(614) 524-4048
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Our Approach to Name-Change Cases

Attorney Stephanie N. Dailey brings methodical attention to each name-change petition she oversees, understanding that proper documentation and compliance with court procedures are crucial for success.

Here are the elements that characterize our approach:

  • Complete intake process

    Detailed form completion to gather all information needed for your application and identify any potential issues early in the process.

  • Document preparation and filing

    Preparation of all required documents, including your petition, publication notices, and supporting materials.

  • Publication and notice requirements

    Coordination of required publication in a local newspaper of general circulation, ensuring compliance with Ohio's notice requirements.

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Serving Ohio Communities with Trustworthy Legal Support

We work with clients throughout Ohio, with concentrated service in Franklin, Fairfield, Pickaway, Delaware, and Licking counties. Our areas of service include:

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Ohio
3974-D Brown Park Drive Hilliard,
OH 43026

Facilitating Your Legal Name Change in Ohio

At Dailey Law Offices, we provide clear guidance through Ohio's legal name-change process. When you need to change your name to reflect your evolving personal circumstances, don’t face complicated probate procedures alone — turn to Dailey Law Offices to get the reliable assistance and representation you need.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Name Changes in Ohio

  • How long does the name-change process take in Ohio?

    In Ohio, changing one’s name typically takes six to 12 weeks from the initial filing to the final court order. This timeline includes the required publication period (normally at least 30 days before the court hearing), scheduling your hearing, and processing your court order.

    Note that Franklin County Probate Court and other Ohio county courts may have slightly different timelines based on their docket schedules.

  • What are the filing fees for a name change in Ohio?

    Filing fees for name-change petitions vary by county but generally range from $100 to $200. Additional administrative costs include publication fees for the required notice in a local newspaper of general circulation (typically $50–$150) and fees for certified copies of your court order. We’ll provide transparent information about all costs during your initial consultation.

  • Do I need to appear in court for my name change?

    Yes. Ohio law requires a court hearing for most name-change petitions. During this hearing, the probate court judge will ask why you want to change your name and confirm that you meet the requirements for reasonable and proper cause.

    The hearing is usually brief and straightforward when proper documentation has been filed. We will attend the hearing with you to represent you and address any questions that arise.

  • Can I change my minor child's name without the other parent's consent?

    Generally, both parents must consent to a minor child's name change in Ohio. However, exceptions exist when one parent's parental rights have been terminated, when one parent can’t be located after reasonable efforts, or in certain other circumstances.

    The probate court evaluates each situation individually, prioritizing the child's best interests when determining whether to grant a name change without both parents' consent.

  • What documents do I need to update after my name change?

    After receiving your court order, you'll need to update your name with multiple agencies and institutions.

    Priority updates include the Social Security Administration (which should be done first) and Ohio’s Department of Motor Vehicles for your driver's license, as well as the state passport office, banks and financial institutions, employers, insurance companies, and medical providers. We’ll provide a comprehensive checklist to ensure that you don't miss any important updates.

  • Will my name change be public record?

    Yes. Name changes in Ohio become part of public court records. The required publication in a local newspaper also creates a public notice of your name change. However, the court may seal records in some circumstances, such as cases involving identity fraud, safety concerns, or other sensitive conditions. Our team can request record sealing if there are appropriate legal grounds.

  • Can I change my name for any reason?

    Ohio law requires "reasonable and proper cause" for name changes. Courts generally approve name changes for legitimate personal reasons, including marriage, divorce, gender identity, cultural preferences, or simply preferring a different name. They typically deny requests when the purpose is to avoid debts, evade law enforcement, commit fraud, or cause confusion.

    We’ll evaluate your situation during your initial consultation to determine whether your reason meets Ohio's legal standards.