Homepage Blank Arizona Court Change Name Form
Outline

The Arizona Court Change Name form is a crucial document for individuals seeking to legally change their name in Pima County. This form serves as the official application and includes essential details such as the applicant's current name, desired new name, and the reason for the change. It requires the applicant to disclose whether they have any felony convictions, ensuring transparency in the process. Importantly, the form emphasizes that the name change is intended solely for the applicant's best interests and will not affect any existing legal obligations or rights associated with their original name. Once completed, the form must be submitted to the Arizona Superior Court, where a judge will review the application. If approved, the court will issue an order to change the name and direct the appropriate agencies to update birth records accordingly. This process not only provides a legal pathway for personal identity changes but also ensures that all necessary legal protections and considerations are in place.

Sample - Arizona Court Change Name Form

Name of Person Filing ______________________________________
Mailing Address ______________________________________
City, State, Zip Code ______________________________________
DaytimeTelephone ______________________________________
Representing Self ______________________________________
ARIZONA SUPERIOR COURT, PIMA COUNTY
In the Matter of the Application of )
) Case No. _________________________________
)
_______________________________ ) APPLICATION FOR
Applicant ) CHANGE OF NAME FOR AN ADULT
________________________________ )
1. Applicant _____________________________________________________, born _____________________ at
______________________________________, ________ is a resident of _________________________________
County and desires a change of name for the following reason:
2. Applicant ________________________________________________________________, F has F has not
been convicted of a felony. This application is made solely for applicant’s best interests and will not operate to
release applicant from any obligations applicant has incurred or is under, or defeat or destroy any rights of property
or action had in applicant’s original name.
THEREFORE, applicant requests that the court enter an order that the present name of
_________________________________________________________________________________, be changed
to __________________________________________________________________________________________.
The undersigned swears or affirms that the statements set forth above are true and correct, subject to penalties of
making a false affidavit or declaration.
________________________ ______________________________________________________
Date Requesting Party
Name of Person Filing ______________________________________
Mailing Address ______________________________________
City, State, Zip Code ______________________________________
DaytimeTelephone ______________________________________
Representing Self ______________________________________
ARIZONA SUPERIOR COURT, PIMA COUNTY
In the Matter of the Application of )
) Case No. _________________________________
)
_______________________________ ) ORDER CHANGING NAME FOR AN ADULT
Applicant )
________________________________ )
Applicant having filed an Application for Change of Name for an Adult; the cause came on regularly to be
heard this
day of , 20 , before this Court.
The Court having read the Application and having fully considered the matter, and good cause appearing
therefore,
1. IT IS ORDERED that the name of ___________________________________________________________
(Applicant’s Current Name)
be changed to _________________________________________________________________________.
(Applicants New Name)
2 F
For a person born in the State of Arizona, the Office of Vital Records is ordered to amend the birth record
to reflect the new name ordered above.
F For a person born in a state other than Arizona, to the extent that the agency that maintains birth records in
that state is authorized to honor an order of the Court, that agency is requested or ordered to amend its
birth records to reflect the new name as ordered above.
DONE IN OPEN COURT this
day of , 20 .
_______________________________________________
Judicial Officer

Form Information

Fact Name Description
Purpose of the Form This form is used to apply for a legal name change for an adult in Arizona. It allows individuals to request that the court change their name for personal reasons.
Governing Law The application for a name change is governed by Arizona Revised Statutes, specifically under Title 12, Chapter 7, which outlines the procedures for changing a person's name.
Felony Conviction Disclosure The applicant must disclose whether they have been convicted of a felony. This information is important as it may affect the court's decision regarding the name change.
Amendment of Birth Records If the name change is granted, the court orders that the birth record be amended. This applies to individuals born in Arizona, as well as those born in other states, subject to the laws of those states.

Detailed Guide for Filling Out Arizona Court Change Name

Completing the Arizona Court Change Name form is an important step in your journey toward a new identity. After you fill out the form, you will need to submit it to the appropriate court for consideration. The court will review your application and, if approved, will issue an order to officially change your name.

  1. Begin with your personal information: In the first section, write your full name in the space provided for the "Name of Person Filing." Below that, fill in your mailing address, including city, state, and zip code. Ensure your daytime telephone number is accurate for any necessary communication.
  2. Indicate your representation status: Check the box that states whether you are representing yourself. This is important for the court to understand your situation.
  3. Fill in the case details: On the next line, write the case number, which will be assigned by the court once your application is filed.
  4. Provide your birth information: In the section labeled "Applicant," write your full name again, followed by your date of birth and the place where you were born.
  5. State your residency: Indicate the county where you currently reside. This helps establish your jurisdiction for the name change.
  6. Explain your reason for the name change: In the designated area, provide a brief explanation of why you wish to change your name. Be sincere and clear in your reasoning.
  7. Disclose any felony convictions: Indicate whether you have been convicted of a felony by checking the appropriate box. This is a required disclosure for the court.
  8. Request the name change: Clearly state your current name and the new name you wish to adopt. Make sure this section is filled out completely and accurately.
  9. Sign and date the application: At the bottom of the form, sign your name and include the date. This signature affirms that all information provided is true and correct.

Obtain Answers on Arizona Court Change Name

  1. What is the purpose of the Arizona Court Change Name form?

    The Arizona Court Change Name form is used when an adult wants to legally change their name in Pima County. This form allows individuals to submit a formal request to the court, explaining their reasons for the name change. The court will review the application and, if approved, issue an order to officially change the name.

  2. Who can file for a name change in Arizona?

    Any adult resident of Arizona can file for a name change. This includes individuals who may have been convicted of a felony, as long as the name change is not intended to evade legal obligations or rights associated with their original name. It's important that the application is made in good faith and for legitimate reasons.

  3. What information do I need to provide on the form?

    You will need to fill out personal information, including your current name, the name you wish to adopt, your mailing address, and your daytime telephone number. Additionally, you'll need to indicate whether you have been convicted of a felony. Providing accurate and complete information is crucial for the court's review.

  4. What happens after I submit the application?

    Once you submit the application, the court will schedule a hearing. During this hearing, the judge will review your request. If the judge finds good cause for the name change, they will issue an order to change your name. If you were born in Arizona, the court will also direct the Office of Vital Records to update your birth record accordingly.

  5. Can I change my name to anything I want?

    While you have the freedom to choose a new name, it cannot be for fraudulent purposes or to escape legal obligations. The court will assess the appropriateness of the name change. It’s advisable to choose a name that reflects your identity and is respectful. If you have any concerns about your chosen name, consider discussing it with legal counsel before filing.

Common mistakes

When filling out the Arizona Court Change Name form, many individuals make common mistakes that can delay the process. One frequent error is failing to provide complete and accurate personal information. The form requires specific details, such as the applicant's full name, mailing address, and daytime telephone number. Omitting any of this information can lead to complications in processing the application.

Another mistake is neglecting to indicate whether the applicant has been convicted of a felony. This section is crucial, as it directly impacts the court's decision. If this detail is left blank or inaccurately filled out, it may raise questions or lead to a denial of the application. It’s essential to be honest and thorough in this part of the form.

Many applicants also overlook the necessity of providing a valid reason for the name change. The form asks for the reason behind the request, and failing to include this can result in the court needing additional information, which may prolong the process. A clear and concise explanation helps the court understand the applicant's motivation.

Inaccurate or incomplete names can also create issues. The current name and the desired new name must be written clearly and correctly. Any typographical errors or inconsistencies can cause confusion and may require the applicant to start over. Double-checking spelling and formatting is a simple yet vital step.

Another common oversight is not signing and dating the application. This might seem trivial, but an unsigned form is typically considered incomplete. The court requires a signature to affirm that the applicant has provided truthful information. Remember to date the application as well; this establishes the timeline for the request.

Some applicants forget to keep a copy of the completed form for their records. This can be a significant mistake, especially if there are questions or issues later in the process. Having a copy allows the applicant to refer back to their submission and ensures they are prepared for any follow-up actions.

Additionally, people often fail to check the court's specific requirements for filing. Each county may have different rules or additional documentation that needs to be submitted along with the form. Not being aware of these requirements can lead to unnecessary delays.

Lastly, many individuals underestimate the importance of reviewing the entire application before submission. Rushing through the form can lead to overlooked errors. Taking the time to review each section carefully can save applicants from potential setbacks.

By being mindful of these common mistakes, applicants can navigate the Arizona Court Change Name process more smoothly and efficiently. A little attention to detail can make a significant difference in achieving a successful name change.

Documents used along the form

When applying for a name change in Arizona, several other forms and documents may be necessary to complete the process effectively. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose and can help ensure that the name change is recognized legally. Below is a list of commonly used forms alongside the Arizona Court Change Name form.

  • Petition for Change of Name: This document initiates the name change process. It outlines the applicant's current name, the desired new name, and the reasons for the change. It must be filed with the court.
  • Notice of Hearing: After filing the application, a notice of hearing must be served to inform interested parties about the scheduled court date. This ensures transparency and allows for any objections to be raised.
  • Affidavit of Publication: This form proves that the applicant has published a notice of the name change in a local newspaper, as required by Arizona law. It serves as evidence that the public was informed of the name change.
  • Order of Name Change: This is the court's official order that grants the name change. It specifies the old name, the new name, and includes instructions for updating vital records.
  • Birth Certificate Amendment Request: If the applicant was born in Arizona, this form is needed to request an amendment to the birth certificate to reflect the new name. It must be submitted to the Office of Vital Records.
  • Identification Update Form: This document is used to update identification documents, such as a driver’s license or passport, to reflect the new name. It typically requires submission along with the court's order.
  • Social Security Administration Name Change Form: This form is necessary to update the name with the Social Security Administration. It ensures that the new name is reflected in federal records.

Completing these forms accurately and submitting them in a timely manner is essential for a smooth name change process in Arizona. Each document plays a crucial role in ensuring that the name change is legally recognized and properly recorded.

Similar forms

The Arizona Court Change Name form is similar to several other legal documents that serve various purposes. Here’s a list of those documents and how they relate:

  • Name Change Petition: Like the Arizona Court Change Name form, a name change petition is filed with the court to request a change of name. Both require personal information and a reason for the name change.
  • Divorce Decree: A divorce decree often includes a provision for restoring a former name. This document, like the name change form, is a legal order that officially changes a person’s name.
  • Marriage Certificate: A marriage certificate serves as legal proof of a name change upon marriage. Similar to the name change form, it documents the new name and is used for official purposes.
  • Court Order for Name Change: This document is the result of a name change petition. It formally orders the change of name, much like the order section of the Arizona form.
  • Affidavit of Identity: An affidavit of identity may be required in certain situations to verify a person’s identity when changing their name. It shares similarities with the Arizona form in that it involves sworn statements about the individual’s identity.
  • Social Security Name Change Form: This form is used to update a name with the Social Security Administration. It requires similar information as the Arizona form, such as identification and reason for the change.
  • Passport Name Change Application: When changing a name, individuals must apply for a new passport. This application process parallels the Arizona form by requiring legal documentation of the name change.
  • Birth Certificate Amendment Request: When a name change is granted, a request may be made to amend the birth certificate. This process is related to the Arizona form as it ensures that all official documents reflect the new name.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Arizona Court Change Name form, it’s important to approach the task with care and attention to detail. Here’s a helpful list of things to do and avoid to ensure a smooth process.

  • Do read the entire form carefully before you start filling it out.
  • Do provide accurate and complete information, including your current name and the name you wish to adopt.
  • Do include your mailing address and contact information so the court can reach you if needed.
  • Do sign and date the application to verify that all information is true and correct.
  • Don't leave any sections blank; if something doesn’t apply, indicate that clearly.
  • Don't use nicknames or informal names; always use your legal name as it appears on official documents.
  • Don't forget to check for any specific local requirements or additional documents that may be needed.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing it for spelling errors or incorrect information.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your application for a name change is processed efficiently and without unnecessary delays.

Misconceptions

When it comes to the Arizona Court Change Name form, there are several misconceptions that can lead to confusion. Understanding these misconceptions can help applicants navigate the process more smoothly. Here are five common misunderstandings:

  • The form is only for adults. Many people believe that the Change Name form can only be used by adults. In fact, there are separate procedures for minors, and the process for changing a child's name is different.
  • A name change erases criminal history. Some individuals think that changing their name will erase any past criminal convictions. However, a name change does not remove any legal obligations or alter a person’s criminal record.
  • You need a lawyer to file the form. While having legal representation can be helpful, it is not a requirement. Many people successfully file the Change Name form on their own without an attorney.
  • The process is quick and easy. Some applicants expect the name change process to be straightforward and fast. However, depending on the court's schedule and any potential complications, it may take time to complete.
  • Changing your name is free. Many assume that there are no costs associated with changing their name. In reality, there are filing fees and potential costs for obtaining certified copies of the court order.

By clearing up these misconceptions, individuals can better prepare for the name change process and understand what to expect.

Key takeaways

When considering a name change in Arizona, it is essential to understand the process and requirements involved. Here are seven key takeaways regarding the Arizona Court Change Name form:

  • Eligibility: The applicant must be a resident of the county where they are filing the application.
  • Reason for Change: The applicant must provide a valid reason for the name change, which should be in the best interest of the individual.
  • Criminal History: The application requires disclosure of any felony convictions. This information is crucial for the court's consideration.
  • Application Submission: The completed form must be submitted to the Arizona Superior Court in Pima County, along with any required fees.
  • Judicial Review: A hearing will be scheduled, during which the court will review the application and any objections before making a decision.
  • Order of Change: If approved, the court will issue an order that legally changes the applicant's name and directs the appropriate agencies to update their records.
  • False Statements: The applicant must affirm that all information provided is true, as false declarations can lead to legal consequences.

Understanding these points can help streamline the name change process and ensure compliance with Arizona's legal requirements.