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Name Change
How do I change my name back to my birth name if my mother never legally changed it in 1947?

How do I change my name back to my birth name if my mother never legally changed it in 1947?

Q: Do birth certificates have mother's maiden name or married name?

Birth certificates usually list the mother's maiden name, which is her name before marriage. However, some states may also include the mother's married name. It's best to check the specific format used in your state to understand what information is included.

Q: How can I find out my mother's maiden name?

To find your mother's maiden name, you can check your birth certificate, as it typically lists her maiden name. Additionally, family records, such as marriage certificates or family trees, may provide this information. If necessary, you can also request a copy of her birth certificate from the vital records office.

Q: Do all birth certificates have the time you were born?

Not all birth certificates include the time of birth. The inclusion of this information varies by state and the specific practices of the issuing authority. If you need this detail, you may need to request a certified copy of your birth certificate and check its contents.

Q: Do birth certificates list mother's maiden name?

Yes, most birth certificates list the mother's maiden name. This is typically included to provide a complete record of the child's lineage. However, the specific format may vary by state, so it's advisable to check your birth certificate for confirmation.

Full question:

I was born in 1944. My birth Certificate has my birth name. When my mother re-married in 1947 she never changed my last name legally but gave me my step-father's last name. I have been known by that last name since. I want to go back to my birth name on my birth certificate. How do I do that?

Category: Name Change
Date: 04/07/2025
State: California

Answer:

The name change process begins with the filing of a Petition for Name Change in the Superior Court where the Petitioner resides. The court will then issue an Order to Show Cause re Name Change which will recite the particulars of the Petition. The Order to Show Cause will direct all persons interested in the name change to appear before the court at a time and place specified to show cause why the name change petition should not be granted. This Order to Show Cause will then be published once a week for four weeks in a newspaper designated within the Order to Show Cause.

If there are no objections filed with the court, the court may, without conducting a hearing, enter the Order Granting Change of Name. If objections are rceived the court will conduct a hearing at the scheduled time and the court may inquire of all interested parties. Thereafter the court may enter whatever order it deems just and proper. The court can grant or dismiss the Petition. Once the Order granting the Petition is signed the Petitioner is free to assume the new name.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Does your legal name have to match your birth certificate?

Your legal name does not have to match your birth certificate. However, if you wish to change your legal name to match your birth name, you must go through the legal name change process. This involves filing a petition in court and obtaining an order for the name change. Once granted, you can use your new name legally.

How can I get my deceased father's name on my birth certificate?

To add your deceased father's name to your birth certificate, you typically need to file a request with the vital records office in the state where you were born. This may require providing legal documents, such as a death certificate and proof of your relationship. The specific process can vary by state, so it's important to check local regulations.