Name Change

What’s in a Name? Navigating Name Change in Maryland

In Maryland, as part of a divorce proceeding, you can change your name to a legal name by which you were known prior to the marriage. You can also change your name as part of a legal adoption.

If your name change is not associated with a divorce proceeding or with an adoption proceeding, or if you want a totally different name, then other procedures are required under the law. Name changes can be had for either adults or children but strict procedures apply and must be followed closely. Additionally, name changes may be both contested and uncontested.

A few of the required steps to legally change your name in Maryland include:

  • filing a petition in the circuit court of the county where you reside
  • complying with notice provisions, including publishing a precisely worded notice of intended name change in the local newspaper
  • demonstrating that your desired name change is not to avoid creditors; not for any illegal purpose; and not for purposes of fraud or misrepresentation
  • waiting the statutory period of time
  • appearing for a hearing in instances of contested cases

Many uncontested name changes can be completed within three months of filing the petition, provided all requirements are met. Contested name change matters have several other requirements that must be met and take longer to conclude. To ensure that the process is done correctly and timely, contact the Prince George’s County Name Change Attorney, at the Law Office of Robin Rucker Gaillard, LLC, at 301-363-2933 for a consultation today.

To optimize your name change consultation and streamline the process, make sure to bring the required documentation, including official copies of your birth certificates, any marriage certificates, any divorce decrees, and government issued photo identification.

To change your name, call the Law Office of Robin Rucker Gaillard, LLC, at 301-363-2933 for a consultation today.

Client Reviews

Robin is always the smartest person in the courtroom. She’s alway ten steps ahead of everyone else. I was always well-informed and made a very active part of the process. She never did anything without my knowing or without my full approval. I will undoubtedly continue to recommend her for as long...

Sadie Groves

I want to thank Attorney Robin Rucker Gaillard from the bottom of my heart for all she has done for my daughter and I. The Prince George’s County Bar Association referred me to the Law Office of Robin Rucker Gaillard, LLC, for representation in a contested custody matter. She built a very strong...

Kimeola Cato

Attorney Gaillard represented me in a DUI/DWI case where I was facing points and jail time. I thought about trying to go it alone but a friend recommended Attorney Gaillard. Thanks to her good advice early on, she put me in the best position possible and when it came time for my hearing, she was...

K. P.

When I was contemplating leaving my abusive husband of 15 years, I was referred by a friend to Attorney Robin Rucker Gaillard, who had helped navigate her ugly divorce. From day one, Attorney Gaillard understood my situation and was very compassionate and insightful. She patiently walked me through...

Phyllis E. Lewis
MSBA Logo
MVLS Logo
Franklyn Bourne BA
Maryland Association
Prince George PA
ABBA Logo
The BA

Click Here for Invoice Payment

Click Here for Retainer Payment

Contact Us

  1. 1 Knowledgeable Counsel
  2. 2 Sound Guidance
  3. 3 Effective Advocacy
Please call us at (301) 363-2933 to schedule your initial consultation.

Leave Us a Message