There are many reasons you might want or need to change a name. You may have recently married or divorced, want to double-barrel your surname to include your partner’s, or feel that your current name no longer reflects who you are.
You may also be looking to change your child’s name, whether because both parents agree, a court has ordered it, or your family circumstances have changed.
Whatever the reason, it’s important to follow the correct legal process so that your new name is recognised on all your official documents.
As experienced change of name lawyers in Kent, with offices in Maidstone, Canterbury, Tenterden and Ramsgate, we help you understand your options and put the right legal documents in place with confidence.
If you live in the UK or are changing your name on UK documents, there are several routes available.
If you have recently married or entered into a civil partnership, you don’t need a deed poll or Change of Name Deed to change your surname.
Most organisations – including the DVLA, Passport Office, DWP and your employer – will update your records for free once you send them a copy of your marriage or civil partnership certificate.
Some people choose to change their name by deed poll. This can be:
An unenrolled deed poll can be created in line with government guidance. However, some organisations prefer or require an enrolled deed poll before they will update your official documents.
Enrolling a deed poll involves:
Our expert family lawyers cannot assist with the enrolled deed poll process, other than witnessing your signature if required.
At Whitehead Monckton, we follow a simpler and more practical approach for most clients by preparing an unenrolled Change of Name Deed.
This route is widely accepted and avoids the time and cost of enrolling the deed poll with the court.
Important: If you have been declared bankrupt or have a criminal record, there may be additional considerations. You may also be required to notify the police of your name change. We’ll explain what applies in your situation.
If you are a UK resident but also hold citizenship or residency elsewhere, you should check with your embassy or consulate whether they will accept an unenrolled Change of Name Deed executed in England as evidence of your name change.
Different countries have different rules, and it is important to ensure your new name can be recognised on your non-UK documents as well.
If you are permanently resident overseas, you cannot change your name by deed poll in England and Wales.
To update your official documents in the country where you live, you will need to follow that country’s own procedure.
We can explain the position in relation to your UK documents and signpost you to the appropriate guidance where needed.
Changing a child’s name is more sensitive and is subject to additional safeguards and parental rights.
If your child:
They can execute their own unenrolled Change of Name Deed.
For younger children, our family lawyers can prepare an unenrolled Change of Name Deed, but it must be signed by everyone with parental responsibility.
If you’re unsure whether you have parental responsibility, your child is a foreign national, or you and the other parent cannot agree, our Family Law team can advise you on the next steps – including whether a court order may be needed.
To prepare a Change of Name Deed for a child, we usually need:
Our expert lawyers will let you know exactly what’s required based on your circumstances.
As trusted change of name lawyers in Maidstone, Canterbury, Tenterden and Ramsgate, we make the process as smooth as possible. We will:
If you’re thinking about changing your name – or your child’s – and want friendly, expert guidance, our team is here to help you take the next step with confidence.
To learn more about changing your name or your child’s name, download our information leaflets or read our blog How to Change Name Deed Poll:
Leaflet – Changing your name.pdf
Leaflet – Changing your child’s name.pdf
To discuss your needs contact the experienced lawyers in our Family Team for a consultation on 01622 698000. We will be happy to help.
