What You Need to Know About Transgender Name Changes in California
As transgender individuals champion and expand their rights, brave members of the community increasingly seek name changes. Members of the trans community often seek to change their names in the reflection of their preferred gender. One must go through a number of steps to complete their petition for a name change. Here’s how to get a transgender name change.
A person seeking a transgender name change would first need to file a petition for a change of name with the court. Once granted, the individual may update their license and birth certificate.
How do I begin my application?
The first step of the transgender name change process would be to file a petition to the court. A person must file the correct paperwork and present them to a judge, who will either deny or accept the request. The applicant must fill out a Petition for a Change of Name, and in some cases, an Order to Show Cause for Change of Name.
What can I do if my petition was denied?
Most name changes are granted by the court. However, there are some cases in which the court will likely deny your petition. A petition can be denied if there is insufficient evidence to grant the petition. In this case, the applicant must gather more evidence in corroboration with their application. If your petition was denied, contact Pride Legal. We can help you appeal the court ruling.
How do I update all legal information after my name change has been granted?
Individuals with California Driver’s Licenses may choose M, F, or X to reflect their preferred gender. In order to update your license, you first must update your information with the Social Securities Administration. After your information has been updated at the SSA, the applicant may make an appointment with the DMV to have their license updated. This will include a new photo, fingerprints, and a new application form to fill. You also must update your birth certificate, which you can do so by filing a VS-24 Affidavit to Amend a Record. Changing your name can be difficult. Hiring a name-change attorney can greatly increase your chances of having your petition granted.
Will I need to go to court to change my name?
If a person is changing their gender or changing their name to reflect their gender, they most likely will not have to present themselves in front of a judge. No longer are people forced to go to court to change their name or gender, unless their petition is objected. In many cases, name changes are not contested and the person will not have to go to court.
How can I change my legal gender?
Can I change my name if I have been convicted of a crime?
If the applicant has been criminally convicted, the applicant must contact the Department of Corrections and grant the applicant a name change request. If the applicant is on probation or parole, they must check with their probation officer to acquire a name change.
Will I need to publish my new name in the newspaper after my name change?
If the applicant is on probation or parole, he or she may have to publish in the local newspaper once a week for 4 weeks, allowing others to know that the person is changing their name. This step is not necessary for everyone; an individual changing their name to reflect their preferred gender may not have to complete this. Those who are sex offenders or those who have outstanding debts must publicize their name change.
How much will my transgender name change cost in California?
Transgender name changes cost $435. This includes the California state filing fee.
What can I do if my name change petition was denied?
Most name changes are granted by the court. However, there are some cases in which the court will likely deny your petition. A petition can be denied if there is insufficient evidence to grant the petition. In this case, the applicant must gather more evidence in corroboration with their application. If your petition was denied, contact Pride Legal. We can help you appeal the court ruling.
Contact Pride Legal
If you or a loved one is seeking a transgender name change, we invite you to contact us at Pride Legal for legal counseling or any further questions. To protect your rights, hire someone who understands them.
