Name change for adult

[ut0pia88]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Georgia

I have wanted to change my name to my mother's last name after my parents were divorced when I was 2 years old. My father has not been in my life since then. I am an adult and I'm ready to start a family, and I do not want my family name to be my father's. Can someone tell me what I should expect to pay for the entire thing, if I will need a lawyer and how long it will take? Also, should I make sure it's done before I get my college diploma so that my diploma has my future name on it?? Will it be a greater issue to do it while in college or after?

[FlyingRon]

Call up the clerk of the court where you reside and see if they have information. If they can't provide it, the petitions are usually available in the legal forms sites. You must apply to the court and also comply with the publication of the notice of the proposed change. 30 days later the judge will approve the order if nothing objecting shows up.

Do your self a favor and get a doze or so certified copies of the approved order. You'll need to show these to places like the DMV, etc... to get the your name updated.