Name Change in San Diego

Our names not only provide us with a form of identification, but they also serve as a symbol of pride, history, and family connection. It’s not uncommon for the subject of a name change in San Diego to come into play in a divorce or paternity action, as circumstances change. The process of a name change in San Diego can also be a powerful step towards starting a new chapter in one’s life, reflecting personal evolution or cultural heritage. For many, undergoing a name change in San Diego is a meaningful journey that reaffirms their identity and sense of self in the community. Whether motivated by personal choice or life events, seeking a name change in San Diego offers a legal acknowledgment of one’s desired identity, underscoring the significance of names in our lives. In San Diego, this process can be smooth if you have the right legal help. A family law attorney can make sure the process of a name change in San Diego is done correctly.

At Fair Cadora, we’re here to help you with changing your name or your child’s name. We have successfully handled many name change matters, tailored to fit San Diego’s specific legal requirements. 

We can help you with:

Whether you’re undergoing a significant life change or seeking to align your identity more closely with your personal history and future, the team at Fair Cadora is here to support your journey. 

Documents Required for a Name Change in San Diego


Before you begin the process for a name change in San Diego, you’ll need to gather some key documents to ensure a smooth and successful process. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Petition for Change of Name: This is the primary document where you officially request your name change in San Diego. It requires detailed information about your current name, the new name you desire, and your reasons for the name change.
  • Civil Case Cover Sheet: Accompany your petition with a civil case cover sheet. This form categorizes your petition within the court system.
  • Order to Show Cause for Change of Name: This document will be used by the court to announce your name change hearing date. It’s also the paper you’ll need for publishing your name change in a local newspaper.
  • Decree Changing Name: This form will be signed by the judge upon approval of your name change in San Diego. It officially documents your new name and serves as legal proof of the change.
  • Proof of Publication: After publishing the notice of your name change in a newspaper, you’ll receive a proof of publication that you must submit to the court.
  • Identification Documents: Bring current identification such as your driver’s license, birth certificate, and/or passport when filing your petition. These documents help verify your identity and are essential for updating records post-name change.

At Fair Cadora, we guide our clients through the entire process, ensuring you have all the necessary documents correctly filled out and filed. Our experience in San Diego’s legal system allows us to provide you with comprehensive support, from drafting your initial petition to securing your new name.

Updating Your Records


After your name change in San Diego is legally recognized, you’ll need to update various personal and legal documents to reflect your new name. This task extends beyond the basics, such as your driver’s license and social security card. You’ll also need to update your passport, bank accounts, credit cards, and even your voter registration to ensure consistency across all records. It’s also important to notify your employer, insurance providers, and utility companies to avoid any potential confusion or issues with services and employment records. 

Taking these steps not only solidifies your new identity legally but also helps in maintaining a seamless transition in your day-to-day life. Remember, each institution has its own process for updating records, so reaching out to them directly for specific instructions will streamline the process.

Hiring an Experienced Attorney in San Diego


Changing your name is a significant step towards starting a new chapter. With Fair Cadora, you’re not alone in this journey. Our team gives you the personalized attention you deserve, making the whole process easier for you. Our clients value the convenience that comes with having an attorney handle the process from start to finish, especially when it involves navigating the complexities of San Diego’s legal system. We pride ourselves on our deep understanding of these local intricacies. Let us help you make your name change in San Diego a seamless and joyful experience, ensuring that every detail is handled with care and precision.

Schedule a Consultation with One of Our Expert San Diego Name Change Lawyers

At Fair Cadora we offer a free case evaluation for potential new clients to help take some of the pressure off the name change process. We like for our potential new clients to get to know us and get a feel for our practice, so they can feel confident with our representation. If you’re facing a name change issue and not sure where to start, contact one of our experienced San Diego family law attorneys to schedule a case evaluation.

Request Case Evaluation

At Fair Cadora, we regularly assist clients in name change cases. To learn more about our process and the cost to obtain a name change, contact us today for a case evaluation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

To change your name in California, you’ll need to file a petition in the superior court of the county where you reside. The process involves submitting specific forms, paying a filing fee, and attending a court hearing.

Yes, it is possible for a court to deny a requested name change. If the name does not comport with California legal name requirements, the proper legal process is not followed, or the name change is being requested in connection with criminal activity, for example, a name change request could be denied.

The court filing fee for a name change in California varies by county but is generally in the range of $435 to $480. There is also a fee related to publication of your name change request in the newspaper, as required by law. Additionally, there might be fees for obtaining certified copies of the court order. Fee waivers are available for those with financial hardship.

The time it takes to complete a name change in California varies. After filing the petition, your request must be published in the newspaper for 4 weeks, and you’ll typically attend a court hearing scheduled shortly afterward. The entire process, from filing to receiving the court order, can take around 2 to 3 months.

Yes, you can change your child’s name in California through a similar court process. The process varies based upon whether there is already an open family court case involving this child and whether the other parent consents to the name change.