Change of Name Deed Solicitors
Want to change your name? You need to create a Change of Name Deed, sign it in the presence of a witness, and notify authorities like DVLA and banks.
Our solicitor in Hayes, London, provides Change of Name Deed services for a fixed fee of £100 + VAT, covering all aspects of drafting a Change of Name Deed.
Contact our Change of Name Deed solicitors in London at 0203 959 7755 for legal support in drafting, signing, and certifying your Deed Poll.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Change of Name Deed?
- Who Can Change Their Name Using a Change of Name Deed?
- Who Cannot Change Their Name?
- Are There Any Restrictions on the Name I Can Choose?
- What Is Involved in Changing the Name of a Child?
- Do I Need to Notify Anyone About My Name Change?
- What is the Procedure for Changing Your Name?
- What Documents Will You Need to Provide to the Solicitor?
- Do I Need a Witness When Signing My Change of Name Deed?
- Why Do You Need a Solicitor for a Change of Name Deed?
- How Much Do Solicitors Charge for a Change of Name Deed?
- How Long Does the Change of Name Deed Process Take?
- Contact Change of Name Deed Solicitors in London
What Is a Change of Name Deed?
A Change of Name Deed, also known as a Deed Poll, is a legal document used in the UK to formally notify authorities of your intention to change your name.
It's widely accepted in the UK for updating documents like passports and bank accounts.
Who Can Change Their Name Using a Change of Name Deed?
Anyone over 18 can change their name using a Change of Name Deed, as long as the new name is legal. For those under 18, consent from parents is required.
Most individuals aged 16 and older can legally change their name, as long as it's not for fraud or gain. For those aged 16 or 17, parental disagreement doesn't stop a name change. But, if a court order bans the change, you must wait until you're 18.
Non-British nationals and individuals with dual nationality can also change their name by Deed Poll. They must follow the legal rules of their home country too.
Who Cannot Change Their Name?
To legally change your name, you must have the mental capacity to make and understand the decision.
A person is usually seen as having mental capacity if they can understand, remember, and share their choice. Making a choice that others might find odd does not mean they lack mental capacity.
Certain restrictions apply when changing your name:
- You cannot change your name for fraudulent purposes or to avoid legal obligations (e.g., debts).
- Names that are offensive, vulgar, misleading (e.g., adopting a title you haven’t earned), or excessively long may not be accepted.
- If you are subject to legal restrictions, such as a court order, you may not be allowed to change your name.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Name I Can Choose?
Yes, there are rules. You can't:
- Choose a name that's offensive or rude.
- Include symbols or numbers.
- Take a title (like Sir or Dr.) unless you've earned it legally.
- Make a name that could confuse people, like someone famous.
What Is Involved in Changing the Name of a Child?
Changing a child’s name requires the consent of everyone with parental responsibility. The process typically involves:
- Drafting a Change of Name Deed for the child.
- Ensuring all relevant parties provide written consent.
- Using the deed to update the child’s official records and documents.
Our solicitor can help navigate this process, if there are disputes about consent.
Do I Need to Notify Anyone About My Name Change?
Yes, you’ll need to inform all relevant organisations and institutions, including:
- HM Passport Office
- DVLA (for your driving license)
- Banks and financial places
- Employers and pension providers
- Healthcare providers (GPs and NHS records)
If you’re a registered offender
You must tell the police you’ve changed your name within 3 days if you’re registered:
- sex offender
- violent offender
- terrorist offender
You must go to your local prescribed police station to do this. You’ll be told where this is on release.
What is the Procedure for Changing Your Name?
When you meet a solicitor for a Change of Name Deed, here's what happens:
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Our solicitor will discuss why you want to change your name. We'll ask questions to get to know your situation.
We'll explain the legal process and what changing your name means. We'll also address any specific concerns or complexities you might have.
Step 2: Information Gathering
The solicitor will ask for your current name, the new name you want, and any supporting documents like your birth certificate.
If you're changing a child's name, they might need proof of parental consent or other documents.
Our solicitor will tell you about any legal issues or name choices that could be problematic (like offensive names).
Step 3: Drafting the Deed Poll
Our solicitor will create the Change of Name Deed for you. This document officially states your intention to change your name and meets legal standards.
You'll get to check the Deed Poll to make sure all the details are right before you sign it.
Step 4: Witnessing the Signature
You or your solicitor will need to arrange for a witness to be present when you sign the Deed. This witness must be over 18 and not related to you.
Once everything is ready, you'll sign the document with the witness and solicitor (if they're acting as your witness).
Step 5: Providing Certified Copies
After signing, the solicitor will give you certified copies of the Deed. You'll need these for places like the passport office and banks.
Our solicitor can guide you on how to notify organisations such as HM Passport Office, DVLA, and banks about your name change.
What Documents Will You Need to Provide to the Solicitor?
To make your Change of Name Deed, you need to provide specific documents that prove your identity and address.
Photo Identification (Proof of Identity)
You must show a valid government-issued photo ID:
- Passport (current and valid)
- UK Driving License (photo card)
- Birth certificate (in some cases)
Proof of Address
You also need to show a document that proves where you live. Acceptable documents include:
- Utility Bill (electricity, gas, water, landline phone) dated within the last 3 months
- Bank or Credit Card Statement dated within the last 3 months
- Council Tax Bill dated within the last year
- Mortgage Statement or Home Insurance Document (within the last year)
- HMRC Tax Correspondence or Government Correspondence
Do I Need a Witness When Signing My Change of Name Deed?
Yes, you need a witness. They must:
- be over 18.
- not a family member or someone who benefits from your name change.
- confirm you signed willingly, and your identity matches the Deed.
A correct witness signature makes the Deed Poll valid and accepted by authorities.
Why Do You Need a Solicitor for a Change of Name Deed?
Changing your name is a personal choice, but it's important to do it legally.
A solicitor makes the process easier and ensures your name change is legally recognised. If you're thinking about changing your name, contact our trusted solicitor for help.
Here's why:
- Our solicitors know the legal rules for your Deed Poll.
- We write your deed clearly and correctly, avoiding mistakes.
- A solicitor's Deed Poll is more credible with official bodies.
- We handle special cases, like name changes for kids or complex family situations.
How Much Do Solicitors Charge for a Change of Name Deed?
Our change of name deed solicitor in London charges a fixed fee of £100 + VAT for drafting your change of name deed and handling all necessary paperwork.
The fee may vary depending on the case's complexity and the services offered. Our solicitors will give you a fee estimate before starting.
The cost covers drafting the document, witnessing your signature, and providing certified copies.
How Long Does the Change of Name Deed Process Take?
The whole meeting with a solicitor usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your situation and the complexity of the matter.
After that, you'll have the legal document to update your name on official records and with institutions.
Contact Change of Name Deed Solicitors in London
Need help with a name change? Contact expert Change of Name Deed solicitors in Hayes, London at 0203 959 7755 for professional legal assistance.
There are several ways to contact our solicitors based in Hayes, London:
- Phone - Call us on 0203 959 7755
- Email us - info@moeenco.com
- Online - Fill in our online enquiry form
- Visit our office - Room 1, The Winning Box, 27-37 Station Road, Hayes UB3 4DX
We are located near Hayes and Harlington Station on Hayes High Street, in Hayes Town Centre.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Moeen & Co. Solicitors before making any decisions based on the information provided on this website.