Legal Name Change

[Verità]

So. I've been planning to legally change my name for awhile now, and I started researching how to go about doing that, except it all looks really confusing. I live in Massachusetts, and the only forms I can find are all for legal adults. I'd be happy to wait until then, but I will most likely be starting college only a few weeks after I turn 18, and I would really prefer to have my name changed by then. Other people in my school have changed their name, so I know it is possible, I just can't seem to figure out how to go about doing it. I know I can't get real legal advice here, but if someone could point me in the right direction, I would really appreciate it.

[ReluctantPegasister]

These sites and forms might help you some.

http://www.lawlib.state.ma.us/subject/about/name.html
http://www.lawlib.state.ma.us/subjec...sm-z.html#name

[Iris. ♥]

Definitely check out the sites that Maeve recommended. Also, if you're under 18, you may have to have parental consent to change your name.

[Maverick.]

Just a side note, If you really want to do this, wait until you are of legal age in the region that you live.

Why do you want to change your name? In many cases you have to fill forms asking why you want to change your first and/or last name. If the reason is not acceptable enough, they won't do it.

In some cases, they will ask you to post an ad in the newspaper stating "This person is changing their legal name to this name." Are you happy with this?

Plus its very easy, especially in the internet age to find if someone is using an alias or a name other than their birth name.

I'm not telling you not to do it, just really think about it.

Good luck with your decision.

[Love.Peace.Happiness]

http://www.lawlib.state.ma.us/subject/about/name.html
That site might help, you could also contact a lawyer or go to a local court house.
Hope I helped! :]

[Carpe Diem]

I'm with Jessie,

First, think about if you really want to change it and all. Remember that your parents chose that name for you with love and that by re - changing your name, you might hurt their feelings. Sometimes, names are what define us. You've had your current name for 18 years of your life, how would you feel to start getting called by something different?

I just want you to think about it thoroughly first. You're almost of legal age in your region, so I do think its best to wait those months. You can always change it in university if you manage to legally change your name. Good luck!