✍️ Name Change in Florida: How to File Without the Confusion or Costly Mistakes
There are many personal and important reasons someone may want to legally change their name, after marriage or divorce, to align with their identity, or simply to embrace a new beginning.
But while changing your name might seem simple, the legal process is anything but. Between the court petition, fingerprinting, background checks, and hearings, the paperwork alone can feel overwhelming.
At AriCleo, we make it easier.
We help you prepare and organize your legal name change documents so you can file correctly, confidently, and affordably without attorney fees or mistakes that cause delays.
💡 Why Do People Change Their Name?
There’s no “wrong” reason to change your name. In fact, it’s your legal right — as long as the petition is filed properly and in good faith.
Here are some common reasons our clients file a name change petition:
After a divorce or separation
After a marriage (beyond what's changed on the marriage certificate)
For gender affirmation
To reclaim a maiden or birth name
For spiritual or personal transformation
To correct or simplify a difficult or misspelled name
For a child (with parental consent)
Whatever your reason, we support your decision — and help you file smoothly.
📑 What’s the Legal Process for Changing Your Name in Florida?
In Florida, you must file a Petition for Change of Name in the circuit court where you live.
The process includes:
Filing a formal petition with the court
Submitting a set of fingerprints to be used for a background check (for adult petitions)
Undergoing a Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) review
Appearing before a judge for final approval (in most counties)
For children, the process may include additional requirements, like consent from both parents or a court order if one parent objects.
🛠 AriCleo’s Name Change Document Services
You don’t need a lawyer to change your name — but you do need the right forms, formatting, and filing instructions.
At AriCleo, we:
✅ Prepare your Petition for Change of Name (Adult, Minor, or Family)
✅ Include all required notices, consents, and supporting documentation
✅ Provide fingerprint card instructions and FDLE filing details
✅ Draft proposed court orders for the judge’s approval
✅ Include a step-by-step filing and next steps guide
We help you file everything completely and correctly the first time — reducing stress and avoiding rejections.
👤 Name Change for Adults
If you're 18 or older and want to legally change your name, you’ll need to:
Submit a notarized Petition for Change of Name (Adult)
Complete an FDLE-approved fingerprint background check
File your documents with the circuit court in your county
Attend a brief court hearing (in most cases)
Receive your court order granting the name change
Update your name with the SSA, DMV, banks, etc.
AriCleo helps with every step except the fingerprinting itself (which must be done at an authorized location).
👶 Name Change for a Minor
Parents or legal guardians can request a name change for a child. Florida courts are strict about ensuring both parents are involved or at least notified.
Requirements include:
A notarized Petition for Change of Name (Minor)
Consent from both parents (if available)
Explanation of why the change is in the child’s best interest
Court hearing (depending on county and circumstances)
If one parent does not agree or cannot be found, AriCleo helps prepare affidavits, notices, and service by publication instructions — but legal advice must come from an attorney if the case becomes contested.
👨👩👧 Name Change for a Family
If an entire family (parents and children) wish to change their last name together, Florida allows a Petition for Change of Name (Family).
We assist with:
Filing one petition for all family members
Including each person’s details properly
Ensuring consents, birth certificates, and ID are organized
Scheduling a court hearing if required
This saves time and money compared to filing multiple petitions.
⚠️ Common Name Change Mistakes
Changing your name may seem simple, but here are common errors that can delay or derail the process:
1. ❌ Using the Wrong Petition
There are separate forms for adults, minors, and families. Filing the wrong one leads to rejection.
2. ❌ Missing or Unnotarized Documents
Many courts require notarized petitions or supporting affidavits. We help ensure everything is in order.
3. ❌ Failing to Submit Fingerprints
Adult petitioners must complete a background check. Missing this step can halt the case.
4. ❌ Skipping Parent Consent for Minors
If both legal parents aren’t listed, you’ll need extra paperwork — and AriCleo can help draft it.
5. ❌ Incorrect Formatting
All documents must follow the court’s formatting standards — something we ensure every time.
📋 Your Name Change Checklist
Before we get started, here’s what you’ll need:
For Adults
Government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
Social Security Number
Proof of residency (utility bill, lease, etc.)
Any previous names (if applicable)
Purpose for name change
Completed fingerprints from a law enforcement agency
For Minors
Child’s birth certificate
Consent from both parents (or valid reason for waiver)
Parent/guardian ID
Any prior custody or adoption orders (if applicable)
💬 Real Client Story
“I wanted to change my name to reflect my identity but didn’t know where to start. AriCleo handled the petition, court forms, and even helped me understand the fingerprint step. It was simple, respectful, and I felt seen.”
— Jordan R., Fort Lauderdale, FL
🧾 What Happens After the Name Change?
Once approved by the court, you’ll receive a signed court order legally authorizing your name change. You can then update:
Social Security records
Driver’s license and state ID
Bank accounts
Employer/payroll information
Passport
School or professional licenses
AriCleo provides guidance for this final step so you don’t miss anything.
📞 Let’s Get Started — Your New Name, Made Easy
Whether you're changing your name for a personal, legal, or family reason, AriCleo is here to help you do it right — and affordably.
🔹 Visit: www.AriCleoDocs.com
📧 Email: contact@aricleodocs.com
📞 Call or Text: (561) 310‑6323
📍 Document services available across Florida and select states
📌 Disclaimer:
AriCleo is a legal document preparation company. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice or represent clients in court. If your name change is contested or tied to an adoption, custody, or criminal case, we recommend consulting an attorney.