How do I change my child's name?

Changing your child's name in the UK is a significant decision that involves legal procedures to ensure the change is recognised across all official records. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the necessary steps, considerations, and legal requirements to successfully change your child's name.

Understanding the Legal Framework

In the UK, altering a child's legal name requires the consent of all individuals with parental responsibility. Parental responsibility encompasses the legal rights and duties a parent has towards their child. Typically, mothers automatically have parental responsibility, while fathers may have it if they are married to the mother or listed on the birth certificate. For unmarried fathers not on the birth certificate, parental responsibility can be obtained through a formal agreement or court order.

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Methods to Change Your Child's Name

There are two primary methods to change a child's name:

1. Amending the Birth Certificate:

   • First Names: If your child is under 12 months old and you wish to change their first name, you can do so by contacting your local register office. This process is straightforward and allows for the amendment of the birth certificate.

   • Surnames: Changing a child's surname on the birth certificate is more restrictive and typically permitted in specific circumstances, such as:

     • Adding the biological father's details if they were not included initially.

     • Following the marriage of the parents after the child's birth.

     • After obtaining a court-issued declaration of parentage.

   For detailed information on these processes, refer to the guidance provided by the UK government.

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2. Deed Poll:

   • A Deed Poll is a legal document that serves as evidence of a name change. It is commonly used when amending the birth certificate is not applicable or feasible. To change your child's name by Deed Poll:

     • Consent: Ensure that all individuals with parental responsibility agree to the name change.

     • Documentation: Complete the necessary Deed Poll forms, which include:

       • Change of Name Deed for a Minor (LOC022)

       • Affidavit of Best Interest (LOC023)

       • Deed Poll Statutory Declaration for a Minor (LOC024)

       • Notice for The Gazette for a Minor (LOC026)

     • Submission: Submit the completed forms along with a copy of your child's full birth certificate to the relevant authorities.

     • Fee: The total fee for changing a child's name by Deed Poll is £49.32, which includes court enrolment and advertisement charges.

   Detailed instructions and forms are available on the UK government's official website.

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Considerations When Changing Your Child's Name

• Best Interests of the Child: The welfare of the child is paramount. Any decision to change a child's name should be made with their best interests in mind. If the matter is brought before a court, the judge will consider factors such as the child's wishes (depending on their age and understanding), the potential impact on their identity, and the reasons for the proposed change.

• Absence of Parental Consent: If a person with parental responsibility cannot be located or refuses to consent to the name change, you may need to apply to the court for a Specific Issue Order. This order allows the court to make a decision on the name change based on the child's best interests. It's advisable to seek legal advice in such situations.

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• Known As Names: Some institutions, like schools and GP surgeries, allow the use of a "known as" name, which is different from the child's legal name. While this can be a temporary solution, it's important to note that official documents and records will still reflect the child's legal name unless a formal change is made.

Steps to Change Your Child's Name via Deed Poll

1. Obtain Consent: Ensure all individuals with parental responsibility agree to the name change.

2. Complete the Deed Poll Application: Accurately fill out the required forms, providing all necessary information.

3. Sign the Deed Poll: All parties with parental responsibility must sign the document in the presence of two independent witnesses who are over 18 and not related to the child.

4. Enrol the Deed Poll (Optional): While not mandatory, enrolling the Deed Poll with the Royal Courts of Justice makes the change a matter of public record. Some organisations may prefer an enrolled Deed Poll as evidence of the name change.

5. Notify Relevant Organisations: After obtaining the Deed Poll, inform all relevant institutions of your child's new name. This includes schools, healthcare providers, financial institutions, and government agencies.

Changing your child's name is a process that requires careful consideration and adherence to legal procedures. By following the steps outlined above and ensuring that all actions are taken in the best interests of your child, you can successfully navigate the process and have your child's new name recognised across all official records.