Georgia Name Change Lawyer

A legal name change in Georgia requires a court order. Attorney Ned Ogueri assists adults and parents in Gwinnett County and metro Atlanta with Georgia name change petitions and with restoring a prior name as part of a divorce.

How long does a name change take in Georgia?

For an adult, notice must be published in the county legal organ once a week for four weeks, starting within seven days of filing, and the hearing can occur no sooner than 30 days after filing. The total time then depends on the court’s calendar and whether anyone objects.

Can I change my name back after a divorce in Georgia?

Yes. You can ask for your prior name to be restored in the final divorce decree. If it was not restored in the decree, a separate name change petition may be needed.

Restoring a prior name in a divorce

A spouse may ask that a prior or maiden name be restored in the final divorce decree. When that request is included in the divorce, a separate name change case is usually unnecessary.

The petition process

Outside of divorce, a name change is requested by filing a petition in the superior court of the county where the person lives. O.C.G.A. § 19-12-1 sets out the procedure.

Publication requirement

Within seven days of filing, the petitioner must publish notice of the petition in the county’s legal organ once a week for four consecutive weeks. The court may waive publication and seal the record for a qualifying victim of family violence.

When the hearing can take place

• For an adult, the hearing may occur after 30 days from filing.
• For a minor child, the hearing may occur 30 days after service on the parents or guardian who live in Georgia, or 60 days after service by mail if a parent or guardian lives outside Georgia.

Any interested person may file an objection, and the court then decides whether the change should be granted.

Changing a child’s name

A child’s name change involves notice to the parents and a review of whether the change is appropriate for the child. If the other parent objects, the court hears the dispute.

After the order

Once the order is entered, you will need certified copies to update records such as your Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, bank accounts and immigration documents.

Related guides: Georgia divorce FAQ.

Learn more about Gwinnett County divorce and family law lawyer, or call (770) 840-9098 to request a consultation with Attorney Ned Ogueri.

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This page provides general information about Georgia law. It is not legal advice for your situation, and contacting the office does not create an attorney-client relationship.