How Does a Federal Inmate Get a Change of Name?

Q: Can my husband change his name to avoid legal issues?

No, your husband cannot change his name to evade legal actions, judgments, or debts. The court requires valid reasons for the name change that align with public interest. Common acceptable reasons include marriage or divorce.

Q: What if my husband is transferred to another facility during the name change process?

If your husband is transferred to another facility, he can still pursue the name change process. However, he should notify the court of his transfer and check if he needs to file in the new location or if his existing petition can be continued.

Q: What documentation is needed for a name change in Mississippi?

For a name change in Mississippi, you typically need to provide identification, such as a birth certificate or driver's license, and complete a name change petition. Additional documentation may be required based on specific circumstances, so it's best to consult the local courthouse for details.

Q: Are there any fees associated with changing a name in Mississippi?

Yes, there are fees associated with changing a name in Mississippi. The amount can vary by county, so it's important to contact the local courthouse to get the exact fee information before filing your petition.

Full question:

Hi,My husband is in a federal correctional facility, and he wants to know how he change his name while is on prison, fees end necessary documentation. he is in CI Adams County correctional Institution, in Natchez Mississippi, but he is going to be transferred to another facility soon, we don’t know which facility it’s going to be, thank you.

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

Answer:

He will need to follow the name change requirenments for the state he is in when he applies. A petition can be filed at the courthouse of the local county. Filing fees vary by court, so we suggest you contact the clerk of courts at the local court where the petition will be filed to inquire about filing fees. If he is unable to attend the hearing, he may need to inquire about the availability of a telephone conference (rules vary by court) or or hire an attorney to represent him at the hearing. Our name change packages are typically $49.95.

The petition is filed in the civil court in the county where the Petitioner resides. A person is not allowed to change their name in order to avoid judgments or legal actions against him or her, or to avoid debts and obligations. A person can not change their name to defraud any person. For an order of name change to be granted, the court must find sufficient reasons for the change and also find it consistent with the public interest. A change of name upon marriage, dissolution, or divorce meets these requirements. Any reasonable objections made to the court may influence the court's findings as to whether the change of name is consistent with the public interest.

You can locate the specific requirements for name change at the following link:

http://namechange.uslegal.com/name-changes-laws-by-state/

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

What are the steps to change my name while incarcerated in Mississippi?

To change your name while incarcerated in Mississippi, you must file a petition at the local courthouse in the county where you are held. This involves completing the necessary paperwork and paying any associated filing fees. If you cannot attend the hearing, inquire about the option for a telephone conference. It's advisable to consult with an attorney for guidance throughout the process.