How Do I Find a Name Change Order from 1946 in New York?

Full question:

need to find proof of a legal name chge in 1947 (perhaps late 1946) name was changed from ____ to ________ in 1947 or late 1946 - residence then was Brooklyn later Manhasset Nassau Cty.

Answer:

The order for name change would be in the court records at the court that issued the name change order. We sugest you call the clerk of courts at the court that ordered the name change.

The need for a legal name change may result from marriage, divorce, adoption or simply a desire to have another name. Generally, you cannot change your name for a fraudulent purpose, such as avoiding debts. Means of changing your name generally include usage (in some states using a name as your own has the affect of making it your name); court order (a court order is recommended to change your name and is required by most states); or a divorce order as proof of name change.

Sometimes a name change isn't made as part of the divorce order. When a person doesn't reside where the divorce was issued, a name change request is typically made in the county of residence. In New York, a person may change their name by filing an action in the County Court or the Supreme Court of the county in which they reside, or, if they reside in New York City, either with the Supreme Court or to any branch of the Civil Court of the City of New York, with appropriate forms.

Your may also wish to contact the New York State Archives and Records Administration (SARA) at the following link:


http://www.archives.nysed.gov/a/directories/dir_programs.shtml

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

To change your name legally, you typically need to provide a petition for name change, proof of identity (like a birth certificate or driver's license), and, in some cases, a marriage certificate or divorce decree if applicable. You may also need to submit a notice of the name change to the public, depending on state requirements. Always check with your local court for specific documentation needed in your area.