Article Guide
Changing your name in Cobb County can be a significant and empowering step. The Cobb Name Change form is designed to guide adults through the legal process of officially adopting a new name. The form includes several essential components, starting with a Petition to Change Name of Adult, which you will need to fill out with your current and desired name, as well as pertinent information such as your birth date and residence. A Verification form accompanies the petition, confirming the truthfulness of the information you provide. Each packet also contains a Notice of Petition, which must be published in a local newspaper, The Marietta Daily Journal, to ensure public notification of your intent to change your name. Additionally, the collection of forms includes a General Civil Case Filing Information Form and a Final Order Changing Name of Adult, which are crucial for officially processing your request within the court system. It is vital to recognize that there are procedural steps to follow: filling out the forms, obtaining notarization, filing with the Clerk’s Office, and attending a final court hearing where the judge will officially grant your name change. While undertaking this journey, you may find it beneficial to consult legal guidance to navigate any complexities that arise during the process.
Form Sample
Superior Court of Cobb County
INSTRUCTIONS FOR NAME CHANGE OF ADULT
WHAT IS THE LAW ABOUT CHANGING NAMES IN GEORGIA?
Court cases that are only about changing names are covered by O.C.G.A. §
GENERAL COMMENTS
It is a good idea to talk to a lawyer before filing any court action. This name change is no exception to that rule. There are often more issues involved than you might realize if you fail to get legal advice. If you do talk to a lawyer before filing this action, it is a good idea to review the forms and instructions in this packet before you talk to the lawyer so that you will be able to make the best use of your time with the lawyer. State law, O.C.G.A. §
FORMS INCLUDED IN THIS PACKET:
(1)Petition to Change Name of Adult - (2 pages)
(2)Verification of Name Change Petition - (1 page)
(3)Notice of Petition of Change Name of Adult - (1 page)
(4)General Civil Case Filing Information Form - (also available in Clerk’s Office)
(5)Final Order Changing Name of Adult - (1 page)
(6)General Civil Case Final Disposition Information Form - (also available in Clerk’s Office)
BASIC STEPS FOR NAME CHANGE OF ADULT:
STEP 1: Fill out the Petition, Verification, Notice, and Case Filing Information Forms. Sign the forms in front of a notary public. (Save the Final Order and Case Disposition Information forms for later, when you have your final hearing).
STEP 2: Make copies of all the forms.
STEP 3: File the forms at the Superior Court Clerk’s Office.
STEP 4: Arrange for publication of the Notice in The Marietta Daily Journal.
STEP 5: Wait the required time, and prepare the forms for the final hearing.
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“Adult Name Change Packet “ |
Page 1 of 14 |
Provided by the Superior Court of Cobb County. |
Rev. 4 2/2017 |
Superior Court of Cobb County
STEP 6:Schedule and attend the final court hearing.
STEP 7:File the final order and get a certified copy of it.
STEP 8:(Optional) Change birth certificate.
DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS FOR NAME CHANGE OF ADULT:
The rest of these instructions tell you how to fill out each form and complete each step of the process to
complete your name change. Please read these instructions and each form very carefully. Missing or
misreading a word could cause you to make serious errors in your case, causing confusion and delays, and
even causing the Court to deny the name changes you are requesting.
You must type or print in black ink on any forms you will file in Cobb County Courts.
STEP 1(A): |
PETITION TO CHANGE NAME OF ADULT |
•Caption (Heading):
Type or print your current name on the blank provided (to the left of the vertical line where it says Petitioner). Do not fill in the Civil Action Case Number. The clerk will assign a number to your case when you file your petition in the Clerk’s Office.
•Paragraph 1: Name and Residency
Type or print your current name on the blank in this paragraph.
Note: You must file this Petition in the county where you live. If you do not live in Cobb County, you cannot file your name change case here.
•Paragraph 2: Birth Date and Place of Birth
Fill in your date of birth on the first blank. If you were born in the United States, check the first box and then fill in the county and state where you were born. If you were born outside the United States, check the second box and then fill in the place where you were born on the space provided.
•Paragraph 3: Old and New Names
On the first blank, fill in your current name. Spell it exactly as it appears on your birth record or other official records you want to change (including any middle name). On the second blank, fill in the new name you want. Spell the name exactly as you want it to appear on the birth certificate or other official records in the future.
•Paragraph 4: Reasons for Name Change
Explain your reasons for wanting the name change in this section. Be clear and reasonably complete, but keep it short.
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“Adult Name Change Packet “ |
Page 2 of 14 |
Provided by the Superior Court of Cobb County. |
Rev. 4 2/2017 |
Superior Court of Cobb County
•Finishing this Petition
Sign your name in the space provided on the last page, and add the date on which you are signing the Petition. Write your address and daytime telephone number where Court staff can reach you, if necessary. However, if you are living in a shelter for victims of family violence, do not list the address of the shelter. Instead, on the space for the address, list only the name of the shelter and the state where it is located. Do not even fill in the name of the county. If your address should be kept confidential because of family violence, do not write that address here. Instead, you should write another address here, where you can be sure that you will receive any information that is mailed to you by the court.
STEP 1(B): VERIFICATION
The Verification form must be filled out along with the Petition to Change Name of Adult. Fill out the caption in the same way that you filled it out on the Petition. Then, insert your name in the space after the words, “My name is.”
Before you sign this Verification, remember that you will be swearing under oath that the information you have provided in the Petition is all true. Do not sign it until you are in front of a notary public. The notary must complete the remainder of the Verification form after you sign it under oath.
STEP 1(C): NOTICE
On the first blank in the main part of the form, fill in your current name. Spell it exactly as it appears on your birth certificate or other official records. On the appropriate blanks, fill in the date you are filing the Petition. On the next space, fill in the new name you want. Spell it exactly as you want it to appear on any official records in the future. At the bottom, fill in the date you are signing the form, and sign your name on the blank provided. Print or type your name and address on the lines below your signature. Make sure your address is complete, so The Marietta Daily Journal can send you the proof of publication.
STEP 1(D):
•Case Caption:
This is located on the top left portion of the form. Do not fill in the Case number and Division. The clerk will do that when you file the case. On the lines just underneath the Case Number, type or print the caption of the case, just as it appears on the Petition.
•Petitioner’s Information:
This is located on the top right portion of the form. Type or print your current name, address, and telephone number on the spaces provided.
•Respondent’s Information: Leave this section blank.
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“Adult Name Change Packet “ |
Page 3 of 14 |
Provided by the Superior Court of Cobb County. |
Rev. 4 2/2017 |
Superior Court of Cobb County
•Type of Case and Origin:
This is located in the boxes in the center of the form. Check the box next to “Name Change.” In the area labeled “ORIGIN,” check the box or “Original Proceeding.”
•Related Cases
This is located at the bottom section on the form. If there have not been any other cases in this court about you, leave this section blank. Just sign your name at the bottom and fill in the date.
However, if there have been other cases about you in the Superior Court of Cobb County (for example, divorce, child support, criminal cases, TPO), then you must fill in this section. To complete this section, fill in the name of the judge and the Case Number of the other case. Check the box next to the words “Same issue of fact or grows out of the same transaction.” Then, sign your name at the bottom and fill in the date.
STEP 1(E): NOTARY PUBLIC
After you fill out all of the forms, review them to make sure they are complete and accurate. Then, take them to a notary public and sign them in front of the notary.
STEP 2: |
COPYING |
Check to make sure you have completed all of the forms needed and that they have all been signed (in front of a notary, where necessary). (Check page one of these instructions for a list of all of the needed forms). Then, make one copy of each of the forms for your records. Separate the copies into sets – one for the court and one for you. Each set should have one copy of each form. Clip each set with a paperclip.
STEP 3: |
FILING |
Take both sets of forms along with your case to the Cobb County Superior Court Clerk’s Office to be filed. There is a court filing fee for a name change action (the exact amount can be obtained from the Clerk’s Office). You will also have to pay a separate fee for The Marietta Daily Journal to publish the notice of name change. These fees can be paid by cash, check, or money order. Be sure to bring a form of payment with you to the Clerk’s Office, and remember that the two fees will have to be paid separately.
Note: If you have a low income and feel that you cannot afford to pay these fees, you can ask the Court to waive the court filing fee (but not the publication fee). To do this, you should file a Poverty Affidavit and Order on Poverty Affidavit forms along with your other forms that you have taken to the Clerk’s Office. A judge must sign the Order approving the Poverty Affidavit, before the filing of your case can be completed by the Clerk’s Office staff. If the judge signs the order of approval, your filing fee is waived and the case will proceed. If the judge does not approve your Poverty Affidavit, you must pay all fees before your case will proceed.
Tell the clerk if there have ever been cases about you in this court so that the case can be assigned to the proper judge. If your paperwork is complete, the clerk will keep the originals for the Court’s file. Once your fees have been paid or a Poverty Affidavit has been approved by the judge, the clerk will write the
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“Adult Name Change Packet “ |
Page 4 of 14 |
Provided by the Superior Court of Cobb County. |
Rev. 4 2/2017 |
Superior Court of Cobb County
case number on the top of the set of your copies, stamp them, and return them to you. Keep these copies for your records. Ask the clerk which judge has been assigned to the case, and get the name and phone number of that judge’s calendar clerk.
STEP 4: PUBLICATION OF NOTICE
Publication is required in all name change cases. While filing your case at the Clerk’s Office, give the clerk the Notice and payment for the publication fee (check or money order) made out to The Marietta Daily Journal. The Clerk will forward the Notice and payment to The Marietta Daily Journal.
You should receive a Publisher’s Affidavit from The Marietta Daily Journal after the Notice has been published for four weeks. Keep it with your other court papers related to this name change case. You will need this document at your final hearing in order to show the judge that the notice was published.
STEP 5: WAIT AND PREPARE FOR FINAL HEARING
The required waiting period for an adult name change in Georgia is 30 days from the date of filing. Publication of Notice in The Marietta Daily Journal must have been completed. The publication normally runs for 4 weeks, so it will usually be completed at approximately the same time as the waiting period.
•Final Order for Changing Name of Adult:
Fill in the caption the same way you did on the Petition. Fill in the Case Number with the same number the Clerk wrote down when you filed the case.
Fill in your current new name and your new name on the blanks provided. Be sure you spell the current name exactly as you want it to appear on your official records in the future. Leave the rest of the form blank. The judge will fill in the remainder of the form at your final hearing.
•General Civil Case Final Disposition Information Form:
Check the box next to the word “Superior” in the upper
Fill in “Cobb” in the space provided for county. Fill in the Case Number on the space for the Docket Number. Fill in your name as the Reporting Party; fill in your title, which is “Petitioner.”
Fill in your name on the line for the “Name of Petitioner/Plaintiff.” Check the box for “Self- Represented.” Do not fill in the spaces provided for the Respondent.
Under “Type of Disposition,” check the box for Bench Trial (#6).
Do not fill in the “Award” section or the “Judgment on Verdict” section. Leave them blank.
Under “ADR,” check the box for “No.”
STEP 6: FINAL HEARING
Contact the calendar clerk for the judge assigned to your case. Make sure you have your court papers (including the Case Number) in front of you when you make the call, so you can answer any questions the
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“Adult Name Change Packet “ |
Page 5 of 14 |
Provided by the Superior Court of Cobb County. |
Rev. 4 2/2017 |
Superior Court of Cobb County
calendar clerk may have about your case. Schedule your final hearing. (Some judges require you to make an appointment; others just have certain days and hours when you come in for this type of hearing).
When you go to court for the hearing, take your copy of all the court papers with you, including:
Petition to Change Name of Adult
Notice of Petition to Change Name of Adult
Publisher’s Affidavit (the paperwork sent to you by The Marietta Daily Journal)
Final Order Changing Name of Adult
General Civil Case Final Disposition Information Form
When you get to the judge’s office, tell the staff that you are there for a name change. The staff may ask you for your Final Order form. When you go into the judge’s office, the judge will have you swear to the truth of what you are about to say. Then, tell the judge the following information:
Your name
The county where you live
That you are at least 18 years old
That you are asking the judge to grant a name change for you from your current name of
_____________________ to the proposed name of ________________________.
The reasons you want to change your name, and
That you are not doing the name change for the purpose of defrauding anyone.
If you have not already given the staff your Final Order form, offer it to the judge now. The judge may ask you some additional questions. Then, if the judge approves the name change, s/he will sign the Final Order form.
STEP 7: FILE FINAL ORDER
Take the signed Final Order to the Clerk’s Office and have it filed. Ask for a certified copy of the order. There will be a fee for the certified copy. The certified copy is your proof that your name has officially been changed.
STEP 8: CHANGE BIRTH CERTIFICATE AND RECORDS (Optional)
•Birth Certificate
If you were born in the State of Georgia, you may have your birth certificate changed to show your new name. (The new birth certificate will be marked as “amended”).
To change the birth certificate, take or mail the following document to the Georgia Bureau of Vital Records at 2600 Skyland Drive NE, Atlanta, GA
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“Adult Name Change Packet “ |
Page 6 of 14 |
Provided by the Superior Court of Cobb County. |
Rev. 4 2/2017 |
Superior Court of Cobb County
Certified copy of Final Order
Copy of your current birth certificate
Money order made payable to “Vital Records Services”
Tell the Vital Records staff that you have had your name legally changed and you want to amend your birth certificate. If you do it by mail, be sure to provide them with your name and address so that they can send you the amended birth certificate.
•Important Records
Take some time to think of all the agencies and companies you may need to notify about your name change. These may include:
Department of Public Safety (driver’s license)
Your bank
Social Security Administration, Department of Family and Children’s Services
Your creditors (such as your landlord or mortgage company, credit card companies)
Child Support Enforcement/ Family Support Registry
Contact these places to find out the steps you must take to give them proper notice of your new name. Some may charge a fee; most will want a copy of your final order.
Congratulations! Your Name Change is complete!
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“Adult Name Change Packet “ |
Page 7 of 14 |
Provided by the Superior Court of Cobb County. |
Rev. 4 2/2017 |
Document Specifications
| Fact Name | Fact Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Laws | The name change process is governed by O.C.G.A. § 19-12-1 through § 19-12-4 and § 31-10-23(d). |
| Legal Advice | It is advisable to consult a lawyer before initiating any name change action. |
| Form Verification | The Verification form must be completed alongside the Petition and signed in front of a notary public. |
| Publication Requirement | Notice of the name change must be published in The Marietta Daily Journal for four weeks. |
| Filing Location | The petition should be filed in the county where the individual resides. Filing in Cobb County requires residency in that county. |
| Steps Involved | The name change process involves filling out forms, filing them, publication of notice, and attending a final court hearing. |
| Confidentiality for Victims | If a petitioner resides in a shelter for victims of family violence, they should list only the shelter's name and state. |
| Final Order | The Final Order Changing Name of Adult must be filed after the court grants the name change during the final hearing. |
| Potential Fees | There are fees for filing the petition and for publishing the notice, which must be paid separately. |
| Poverty Affidavit | If unable to afford filing fees, a Poverty Affidavit can be submitted for a fee waiver, but not for publication costs. |
Steps to Filling Out Cobb Name Change
Once you have completed the Cobb Name Change form, you will proceed with the next stages of the name change process. This involves filing your paperwork, ensuring proper publication of your name change, and attending a final court hearing. Follow the steps outlined below to successfully fill out the necessary forms and navigate the process.
- Fill out the Petition, Verification, Notice, and Civil Case Filing Information forms. Sign them in front of a notary public. Keep the Final Order and Case Disposition Information forms for later.
- Make copies of all completed forms.
- File the completed forms at the Superior Court Clerk’s Office.
- Arrange for the publication of the Notice in The Marietta Daily Journal.
- Wait the required 30 days and prepare for your final hearing.
- Schedule and attend the final court hearing.
- File the final order and obtain a certified copy.
- (Optional) Change your birth certificate.
More About Cobb Name Change
What is the purpose of the Cobb Name Change form?
The Cobb Name Change form is used by adults who wish to legally change their name in Cobb County, Georgia. The process ensures that your name change is recognized legally, allowing you to update any official documents, such as your identification, Social Security card, and other records. This form is part of the legal procedure outlined in Georgia law to protect individuals' rights by formalizing their name change.
What are the basic steps to complete the name change process?
The name change process involves several steps. First, you must fill out and sign required forms, including the Petition and Verification, in front of a notary public. Then, you should make copies of all forms and file them at the Cobb County Superior Court Clerk’s Office. Following that, you will need to arrange for publication of the Notice in The Marietta Daily Journal. After waiting 30 days as required, you will prepare for and attend the final hearing, after which you file the Final Order and obtain a certified copy of it. If needed, you may also request a change to your birth certificate afterward.
How can I get help or advice during this process?
It is recommended to consult with a lawyer before and during the name change process. Legal professionals can offer guidance on potential issues and ensure that your documentation is appropriately filled out. However, be aware that court personnel and staff are prohibited from providing legal advice. It is advisable to familiarize yourself with the forms and instructions to make the most of any time spent with an attorney.
What fees are associated with filing for a name change?
There are fees associated with the court filing and for publishing the Notice in The Marietta Daily Journal. The exact amount of the court filing fee can be obtained from the Clerk’s Office. Payments must typically be made separately, and accepted forms of payment include cash, checks, or money orders. If you face financial hardship, you may be eligible to file a Poverty Affidavit to request a waiver of the court filing fee, but not for the publication fee.
How long does it take for the name change process to be completed?
The entire process generally takes at least 30 days from the date you file your Petition. This includes a waiting period that allows for the publication of the Notice to run, which is typically 4 weeks. Therefore, you should expect the final hearing to occur after this timeframe, assuming all requirements are met timely.
Is publication of the Notice really necessary?
Yes, publication of the Notice of your name change is a mandatory step in the process. This requirement serves a purpose in ensuring that the public is informed of your name change, which helps to prevent any potential fraudulent use of an individual’s previous name. The Notice must be published in The Marietta Daily Journal for four consecutive weeks, and you will need the Publisher’s Affidavit from the newspaper as proof for your final hearing.
What happens at the final court hearing?
During the final hearing, you will present your case before the judge. It is essential to bring all necessary documents, including proof of publication. The judge will review your petition and may ask a few questions regarding your request. If everything is in order, the judge will grant your name change and complete the Final Order form. You'll need to file this order afterward to obtain a certified copy.
Can I change my birth certificate after my name change is approved?
Yes, changing your birth certificate is possible, but it is an optional step following your name change approval. After you receive your certified Final Order, you may contact the appropriate state office to begin the process of updating your birth certificate to reflect your new name. Ensure that you have the necessary documents, including your certified Final Order, when making this request.
Common mistakes
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Failing to choose the correct county for filing. Ensure that the petition is submitted in the county where you currently reside.
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Not providing a complete and accurate current name. Always spell your name exactly as it appears on your official documents.
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Overlooking the notary requirement. Do not sign any documents unless you are in front of a notary public to validate your signatures.
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Neglecting to explain the reasons for the name change. Be clear and concise in outlining why you wish to change your name.
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Forgetting to fill in the case caption correctly. Ensure that it matches what you provided in the original petition.
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Omitting crucial details, such as the birth date or place of birth. This information is vital for the petition to be valid.
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Ignoring the publication requirement. Notice of your name change must be published as specified in the form instructions.
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Underestimating the importance of the final hearing. Attend the hearing prepared with all required documents for a smooth process.
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Not following the instructions regarding the payment of fees. Ensure you have the necessary funds for both court filing and publication fees.
Documents used along the form
When seeking a name change through the Cobb Name Change form, additional documents may be required to ensure the process runs smoothly. These documents facilitate various aspects of the legal procedure and serve to verify the request comprehensively.
- Petition to Change Name of Adult: This primary document details the request for a name change, specifying the old and new names, as well as the petitioner’s reasons for the change.
- Verification of Name Change Petition: This form acts as an affirmation of the truthfulness of the information provided in the petition, requiring the signature of the petitioner in the presence of a notary public.
- Notice of Petition for Change Name of Adult: A public notification document that must be published, informing the community about the proposed name change.
- General Civil Case Filing Information Form: It provides essential case information such as names, addresses, and the type of case, assisting the court in managing the case effectively.
- Final Order Changing Name of Adult: This is an important document that officially records the new name following a successful hearing before the court.
- General Civil Case Final Disposition Information Form: This is used to report the outcome of the case to the court system, indicating whether the request was granted or denied.
- Poverty Affidavit: If a petitioner experiences financial hardship, this affidavit may be filed to request a waiver for court filing fees, ensuring access to justice.
- Publisher’s Affidavit: Obtained from the publication service, this document shows that the notice has been published as required, which is critical for finalizing the name change.
- Notification of Final Hearing: This document serves to inform relevant parties about the scheduled final hearing, ensuring that all necessary individuals are aware of when the petition will be reviewed.
Gathering these forms is essential in making a formal request for a name change effective and legally binding. Each document serves a unique function in ensuring compliance with local laws and providing transparency throughout the process.
Similar forms
The Affidavit of Identity is a legal document often used similarly to the Cobb Name Change form. Its primary purpose is to affirm an individual’s identity, usually when applying for a government-issued ID or passport. Just like in the name change process, the applicant must provide personal details such as their current name, date of birth, and any previous names to establish continuity in identity. In both instances, accuracy is vital; any discrepancies could lead to complications. The notarization required for an affidavit mirrors the need for notarized signatures on the Cobb form, reinforcing the importance of attesting to the truthfulness of the information provided.
The Petition for Divorce serves a distinct but related function. A name change can sometimes be a component of a divorce proceeding, particularly when one spouse wishes to revert to their maiden name. This form initiates the legal process of dissolving a marriage, whereby the individual must articulate their reasons for the divorce, as is required for a name change petition. Both documents underline the significance of legal acknowledgment, where a court's blessing is sought to make personal changes legally binding. Just as with the name change, the divorce process requires accuracy in documentation and adherence to specific court rules and procedures.
Another document with similarities to the Cobb Name Change form is the Petition for Adoption. When someone adopts a child, they often also seek to change the child's name as part of the legal process. This petition requires the adoptive parents to provide detailed information about their identity, the child’s current name, and the requested name change. Both processes require the petitioning party to submit court forms, including a detailed explanation and justification for the name change, ensuring that the court can properly evaluate the request. In essence, both petitions reflect significant life changes that necessitate legal recognition.
The Voter Registration Application allows individuals to establish their identity in a civic context, similar to how the Cobb Name Change document facilitates legal identity changes. When someone changes their name, updating their voter registration is essential to ensure they can participate in elections. Each application requires personal information such as the current and previous names, as well as the individual's address and proof of identity. Both documents hinge on the idea of maintaining up-to-date and accurate records to uphold an individual’s rights and responsibilities within the community.
Last but not least, the Social Security Name Change form provides another parallel. A name change may require an update to Social Security records, reflecting changes in one’s legal identity. This form similarly asks for personal information and proof of the name change, necessitating applicants to submit documentation such as a marriage certificate or court order. The process underscores the importance of maintaining accurate records across various governmental entities, thus connecting the social and legal identities of individuals. In both instances, correctness and thoroughness in documentation are critical to avoid delays in processing and ensure compliance with legal requirements.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Cobb Name Change form, consider the following do's and don'ts:
- Do consult a lawyer before starting the process to clarify your understanding and avoid potential issues.
- Do fill out the forms completely and accurately, using black ink or typed text.
- Do have your forms notarized in front of a notary public after signing.
- Do make copies of all forms for your records before filing them with the court.
- Don't leave any blank spaces on the forms; every section must be addressed, even if you have to note that it doesn't apply.
- Don't file your name change petition in a county where you don't reside.
- Don't forget to check for the publication fee in addition to court filing fees.
- Don't list a confidential address if you are a victim of family violence; instead, provide a safe address for correspondence.
Misconceptions
Misconception 1: You can file for a name change anywhere in Georgia.
This is not accurate. You must file the name change petition in the county where you currently reside. If you live outside of Cobb County, you need to file in your own county.
Misconception 2: The court will automatically approve my name change.
The court does not approve every name change request. If the judge finds your reasons insufficient or if they believe the change could confuse or mislead, they can deny the request.
Misconception 3: Court staff can help me fill out the forms.
This is a common belief, but court personnel are prohibited from giving legal advice or assisting in filling out forms. You should consult a lawyer if you have questions or need help.
Misconception 4: I don't need to publish a notice for my name change.
Publication of the name change notice is required in Georgia. This must be done in a local newspaper, and it typically runs for four weeks. Failure to publish can cause delays in your case.
Misconception 5: I can skip the final hearing if I submit my papers correctly.
Key takeaways
Here are some important points to consider when filling out and using the Cobb Name Change form:
- Ensure that you understand the legal framework for name changes in Georgia, as specified by O.C.G.A. § 19-12-1 through § 19-12-4 and § 31-10-23(d).
- Consulting with a lawyer is advisable before proceeding with a name change to understand potential complexities in your case.
- You must fill out the petition and other required forms clearly and accurately, as any mistakes can result in delays or denial of your request.
- Publication of your name change notice in The Marietta Daily Journal is a mandatory step that requires separate payment.
- After the 30-day waiting period post-filing, you should be fully prepared for your final court hearing, ensuring you have all necessary paperwork ready.