i want to change my last name, add the o' to the front of my name that was dropped a few generations ago, how

Question

how and where do i go to change my last name?

Answer 1

Go to your county courthouse and find out the requirements. In the U. S. each state has different procedures.

Answer 2

Court Method Procedures

To change your name, you'll need to file some simple forms in court, then publish your name change request in a local newspaper for four weeks. After that, you may or may not have to appear in court -- some judges require you to show up in person, while others will sign the order changing your name based solely on the papers you submit.

After your name change, you can take the court order to all the different agencies and institutions that have records about you, and ask them to change your name in their official records.

Generally, the limits are as follows:

-You cannot choose a name with fraudulent intent -- meaning you intend to do something illegal. For example, you cannot legally change your name to avoid paying debts, keep from getting sued or get away with a crime.

-You cannot interfere with the rights of others, which generally means choosing the name of a famous person with the intent to mislead. For example, most judges will not approve your renaming yourself George Bush or William (Bill) Clinton unless you have a convincing reason not related to the famous politicians.

-You cannot use a name that would be intentionally confusing. This might be a number or punctuation -- for example, "10," "III," or "?."

-You cannot choose a name that is a racial slur.

-You cannot choose a name that could be considered a "fighting word," which includes threatening or obscene words, or words likely to incite violence.

The practical steps of implementing a name change are:

-Advise officials and businesses. Contact the various government and business agencies with which you deal and have your name changed on their records. See Changing Identification and Records, below.

-Enlist help of family and friends. Tell your friends and family that you've changed your name and you now want them to use only your new one. It may take those close to you a while to get used to associating you with a new sound. Some of them might even object to using the new name, perhaps fearing the person they know so well is becoming someone else. Be patient and persistent.

-Use only your new name. If you are employed or in school, go by your new name there. Introduce yourself to new acquaintances and business contacts with your new name.

Answer 3

A lawyer. Remember there can be a big mess: You will need to notify Social Security, banks, post office, every where that you have an account with or any such thing. This is not to discourage you, only to remind you that it can be a long, drawn out affair.

Answer 4

I'm Irish and have a very Irish last name. Like you, the O' was taken off somewhere in the past. I always say it fell off the boat on the way over here!

Answer 5

very simple. You need to go to your Social Security office and apply for a new SS. card. they will ask you what name you want on your card and why you want it, you can explain that you want the O for w/e reasons, they will wnt your birth certificate OR your passport and also a copy of your license.
good luck