Pennsylvania Law states that it is unlawful for any person to "assume a name different from the name by which such person is and has been known, unless such change in name is made pursuant to proceedings in court". (54 Pa.C.S.A section 701)

In Pennsylvania, each's County's Court of Common Pleas has their own procedure for changing names.

You can change your name or the name of a minor child by filing a Petition for Name Change.

For an adult name change, you need to provide your birth certificate, social security card and driver's license. After your Petition is filed, you need to be finger printed, have a judgment search done in every county you have lived in for the last five (5) years, and after your hearing is scheduled, you need to publish notice of the name change hearing in two (2) newspapers; one legal and one of general circulation.

For changing the name of a minor, you need parental consent or permission from the court (if a parent refuses to give their consent). If a child is over the age of twelve (12), they must give thier consent in writing.

To find out more information about a name change or to get legal help to do it, contact the Law Offices of Larry H. Lefkowitz.

email: LarryLefkowitz@LarryTheLawyer.com

voice: 215 750-9202 or 215 745-6530

toll free: 1-800-733-2090

fax: 215 750-9268

Mail: 4802 Neshaminy Blvd., Suite 5, Bensalem, PA 19020 or 7104 Castor Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19149

Thanks!

Larry H. Lefkowitz, "Your Neighborhood Lawyer"