Whether you’re looking to change your name for personal reasons, after marriage or divorce, or simply because you’d like to adopt a new identity, a Change of Name Deed (commonly referred to as a Deed Poll) is one of the simplest legal methods available in the UK.
In this blog, we will guide you through the process of executing a Change of Name Deed, explain the key steps involved, and highlight important considerations for both adults and children.
What is a Change of Name Deed?
A Change of Name Deed is a legal document that allows you to formally and legally change your name. It’s a straightforward process that enables you to change your forename, surname, or both. By executing a Change of Name Deed, you make a legally binding declaration that you are abandoning your previous name and adopting a new one, to be used in all aspects of life.
Even celebrities are embracing the power of a Change of Name Deed, with singer James Blunt recently making headlines with his vow to change his name by Deed Poll if the re-release of his debut album ‘Back to Bedlam’ hits number one in the charts. While this may be a publicity stunt, it highlights how easily a name can be changed in the UK using this method!
Why might you need a Change of Name Deed?
People choose to change their names for a variety of reasons, and a Deed Poll offers an efficient, legally recognised solution. Common reasons include:
Marriage: While many take their spouse’s surname after marriage, some prefer to merge both surnames and create a double-barrelled surname.
Divorce: After divorce, some individuals may wish to revert to their maiden name.
Personal Reasons: Some people may want to change their name for personal, cultural, or identity-related reasons.
Correcting Errors: A Change of Name Deed can be useful if you want to correct misspellings or inconsistencies in your name across official documents.
How does a Change of Name Deed work?
The process involves drafting a declaration, signing it with a witness, and then using your new name in all official matters. Optionally, you can enrol the deed at the Royal Courts of Justice for added security and public record. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:
Creating the Document: You draft a legal declaration that states you are abandoning your old name and adopting a new one.
Signing and Witnessing: The document must be signed in the presence of a witness.
Using Your New Name: Once the deed is signed, it is your responsibility to begin using your new name in all official capacities, including on your passport, driving licence, bank accounts, and utility bills.
Enrolment (Optional): Although not mandatory, you can choose to “enrol” your deed at the Royal Courts of Justice for an additional fee. This makes your name change a matter of public record and provides additional security if you need to prove your name change in the future.
Is enrolling a Change of Name Deed necessary?
Enrolling a Change of Name Deed is not required, but it does come with a few benefits. If you enrol your deed, it will be recorded in the Enrolment Books of the Supreme Court of Judicature and published in The London Gazette – the official public record. This can offer extra peace of mind for those concerned about proving the validity of their name change later on, especially when applying for official documents or dealing with overseas authorities.
What are the differences between adults and children changing their names via a Change of Name Deed?
While the process of a Change of Name Deed is largely the same for everyone, there are some key differences between adults and children when it comes to legally changing names in the UK. These are as follows:
Age and Consent: Adults aged 18+ can independently apply for a Change of Name Deed without needing additional permissions, giving them full control over their decision as long as they meet the legal requirements. Whereas children under 18 require parental or guardian consent, with a parent or legal guardian applying on their behalf. If both parents share parental responsibility, they must both agree to the name change, and any disputes between them may need to be resolved through a family court.
Court Approval for Children: In some situations, if there is a disagreement or a parent refuses to consent to a child’s name change, the applying parent can seek a court order. The court will evaluate the request and make a decision based on the child’s welfare. This extra step is not required for adults.
Legal Implications for Future Documents: Once a Change of Name Deed is executed, adults must notify relevant institutions and apply for new documents reflecting their new name. For children, parents or guardians are responsible for updating the child’s identification documents, such as their passport, medical records, and school records, often by providing proof of the Change of Name Deed to said institutions.
Long-Term Considerations: While an adult’s decision to change their name is usually final and carried through into all areas of life, a child may later decide to change their name again when they reach adulthood. This flexibility ensures that individuals can make their own decisions about their identity when they are legally able to do so.
Steps to take after your Change of Name Deed Poll:
Once your Change of Name Deed is executed, the next important step is ensuring that all relevant institutions and authorities recognise your new name. You’ll need to inform the following:
- HM Passport Office
- The DVLA (for your driving licence)
- HMRC (for tax records)
- Your bank(s) and financial institutions
- Your employer
- Utility companies and any other service providers
Most organisations will require the original deed or a certified copy as proof of your name change.
Whether it’s for marriage, divorce, or personal reasons, the Deed Poll system allows you to take control of your identity and adopt a new name with minimal hassle. If you need more information or guidance on completing a Change of Name Deed, our team at AmicusLaw is here to assist. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experts to ensure your name change process is handled smoothly and professionally.