Other Than After a Divorce A name change is not so simple when an adult wishes to have his or her given name or surname changed for a reason other than divorce. The state is concerned that an adult may wish to change his or her name to avoid credit problems, a history of criminal acts, or use a new name to commit fraudulent acts. Therefore, an adult must file a petition in the Court of Common Pleas in the county where he or she lives, to obtain a name change. In addition, an adult is required to publicize the fact that his or her name is about to be changed, certify there are no legal judgements or liens against him or her, and give fingerprints to the court for the state police to review to see if there is a criminal record. People who are convicted of felonies cannot change their names less than two years before their sentence ends.
Parents often wish to change their children's names when they make a new start in life.
A name change for a child is simple, if both biological parents consent to the change of name. Both of the biological parents must complete and sign the form on the back of their child's birth certificate. The form is then mailed to the Department of Vital Statistics. The Department of Vital Statistics will send the parents a new birth certificate containing the child's new name. A petition for a change of name for a child, where the other parent will not consent, should not be attempted without the advice of an attorney.