NAME CHANGE

Changing your name is a personal decision that may come after a life event, such as marriage, divorce, adoption, or a gender transition. In Tennessee, you must go through a legal process to update your name on official documents. Whether you are an adult requesting a name change for yourself or a parent seeking a name change for your child, the court requires specific steps to approve the request.

Legal Process for Adults

If you are an adult and want to change your name, you must file a petition with the court in the county where you live. The petition must include your current name, the new name you want to use, and the reason for the change. The court may ask for additional information, such as proof of residency or a background check.

Once your petition is reviewed, a hearing may be scheduled. If the court finds the request reasonable and not intended for fraudulent purposes, the name change is likely to be approved. After that, you can use the court order to update your identification, bank accounts, Social Security records, and other documents.

Name Changes for Children

To request a name change for a child, one or both parents must petition the court. If both parents agree, the process is usually more straightforward. If only one parent is requesting the change, the other parent must be notified and may have the chance to object. The court will decide based on what it believes is best for the child.

Why Legal Guidance Can Help

While the name change process may seem simple, mistakes in paperwork or missed steps can lead to delays. Legal support can help you understand what the court expects and prepare everything correctly from the start.

Contact Elizabeth Yarbrough

If you are considering a legal name change for yourself or your child, contact Elizabeth Yarbrough at 901-264-9680 today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can support you through this process.

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Cris mitre
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I am very grateful for the support Elizabeth gave me throughout my divorce. She guided me every step of the way and made sure I understood the whole process from beginning to end. She helped me feel calm, more at peace, and confident in the decisions we were making. During mediation, she was very professional and always looking out for my best interest. I highly recommend her to anyone going through a divorce who wants a knowledgeable and caring attorney by their side.
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Betsy Carter
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We are so grateful to Beth Yarbrough for all that she did to make our adoption possible! She helped us with all aspects along the way and her knowledge, experience, and understanding made the process smooth and quick.
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George Hill
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Helpful with experience and knowledge. Thank you for advising.
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Angela Wall
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I wish I found her she is the best divorce attorney.
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Joshua Williams
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My divorce attorney helped save my marriage, when did you ever hear such a thing, but for me this is exactly what happened. I came to Elizabeth during a time a great distress, and prior to speaking with her, I felt as though everything was spinning out of control. I was overwhelmed by all of the complexities that suddenly emerge when one contemplates divorce. Elizabeth's counsel provided me with the legal roadmap and that alone freed up my mind space to focus on other things. All I could focus on prior to meeting with Elizabeth was the impending divorce I was considering, but with my mind at ease about the legal journey, I was able to focus on my relationship with clarity. I recommend Elizabeth without reservation.
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Amber States
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This law firm and attorneys helped me a great deal during a very difficult time for me and my family. I would and will choose them again and again. Elizabeth handled my case and kept me informed every step of the way! She was absolutely fantastic and you could not choose a better person to help you!
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Shannon Davis
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Elizabeth mediated a case for me and has been a long time colleague. She is amazing. Ready to fight if need be. She is prepared when cases come in front of her. I highly recommend!!!