Can I get my name changed?
Yes, it is possible to legally change your name so that your documents such as your birth certificate, social security card, and driver’s license/state ID all have your new name on them. You would be able to use your new name to do things like register for school, apply for jobs, and open a bank account (if you are old enough).
Why might I want to get my name changed?
There are many reasons a person might want to change their name. Some people who have experienced human trafficking want their name changed for safety reasons, in case their trafficker tries to find them using their old name. Some people can feel triggered when they hear their old name because of trauma they have experienced associated with that name. Some people want to change their name to help them move on to a new chapter in their life after their human trafficking experience.
How can I get my name changed if I am under 18?
If your parents consent:
If your parents agree to you getting your name changed, they can fill out a form called a Petition for Change of Name (Minor Children) and file it with the clerk of court. After that, they must submit fingerprints. The clerk of court can give them instructions on how to submit fingerprints and how to obtain a court hearing for the name change. If only one parent files the petition, the other parent must be notified before the hearing. If the judge grants the petition at the hearing, he or she will sign the court order officially changing your name.
For more information and to access the form, CLICK HERE
If you are being adopted:
If you are being adopted and want to change your name, you should talk to your adoptive parents about it. Your adoptive parents can let the lawyer who is doing the adoption know that you want your name to be changed. Then, your name can be changed as part of the adoption. This is different from the process in the “If your parents consent” section above. Changing your name is your choice, and you should not feel pressured to change it. You can ask questions and take time to decide.
If your parent(s) cannot consent and you are not being adopted
If your parent(s) cannot consent (for example, if their parental rights have been terminated) but you are not in the process of being adopted, you may still be able to have your name changed. You can start by telling your case manager, Guardian ad Litem, and attorney if you have one. You can also ask to go to your next court hearing and tell the judge you want to have your name changed. The judge can look at your situation and decide if your name should be changed and if it is in your best interest. Certain documents and records will need to be collected before your name can be changed. You can keep talking to your case manager, GAL, and attorney and/or keep going to court hearings to find out where you are in the process of getting your name changed. This process can take time, and it is okay to talk to people about it and advocate for yourself along the way.
What should I expect after my name is changed?
After the judge signs the court order, your name is officially changed. After that, a trusted adult, such as your parent, case manager, attorney if you have one, or another safe support should help you get new documents with your new name. You should make sure the same name is on all of your important documents (birth certificate, social security card, state ID, Medicaid card, etc.) before you turn 18. Having the same name across all your documents can help avoid confusion in the future.
The Law
Fla. Stat. Sec. 68.07
FosterPower provides information on the benefits, protections, and legal rights of children in Florida’s foster care system and does not include opinions. FosterPower is a non-partisan and independent project that is not affiliated with a government agency or organization. FosterPower is updated frequently, but you should always verify the law independently to ensure it is current.
