name change for adult children

[rubyfrute]

Hi,
My question regarding my two sons, one is 18 the other is 20 years old. Both have wanted to have their last names changed from that of their biological father's last to my maiden name, for quite some time. I have been divorced for 15 years and received my maiden name during the divorce proceedings. My sons do not know their biological father, nor is there any interest on their behalf after this length of time. I have waited many years to proceed with their request, one, to allow them to mature with age and make a sound decision and two, to be sure the name change is what they want. This is their request of me to help them with changing their name to my maiden name. When I went to the local campus law library I xeroxed a "Petition For Change Of Name"(Rule 95) form from one of the law books. I also was given a Form 17 to attach with this copy. Is this all that my sons need to fill out? I know we need a notary stamp and their signature of course, but I am a little intimidated by the single page form for name change verses the stack of paperwork I remember from my divorce days. I have full custody and we live in Jackson Co., Missouri. We understand the process of submitting the forms and paying a $120.00 filing fee each. But, reassure us of the forms needed for this process. Thankyou, Mom.

 

[usmcfamily]

Actually, at ages 18 and 20 your children have full custody of themselves as they are legally recognized adults and therefor are able to decide for themselves what name they want to carry and to petition the courts for that name change. As to it only being a simple document - as I said they are now adults - as such the courts see them as being able to decide what name they want to carry and so they need only complete the simple form and file it witht he filing fee and go from there (ie there may be posting in the "legal notice" section of local paper etc)....but they are not required to serve a copy on the NCP (your ex) or provide any proof to the court that they have so there is no further documentation to be given the court. It may seem strange that something in the court system could be so simple, but in this case you are luck and it really is.....if you are still unsure, re-check your information with the clerk of the court where each person wishing a name change lives (that is where they will have to file)and follow the instruction they provide (hint-- they can also provide the docments you will need to file the petition.)

 

[kateyes]

re: name change for adult sons

This should be a very easy process, You need to check with the Clerk as to the papers you need to have filled out. But because they are both over 18 there will not need to be a Parental Agreement to the Petition for Name change.

I am not an Attorney But do know that in most states when you turn 18, you parents legally have no rights over you anymore!! Check with your clerk to make sure though. hope this helps/.

 

[rubyfrute]

Thankyou, thankyou, thankyou...for your replies. I have enough reassurance and will steam ahead with my sons wish. Happy New Year gents and ladies and God Bless.
Mom.