Looking to Legally Change Your Name in New Jersey? Here’s How

If you’re an adult and ready to change your name, the process in New Jersey involves three key steps that must be completed through the court system.

1. File a Verified Complaint

First, you will need to file a Verified Complaint which sets forth your current name, what you want to change your name to, and why you want it changed. If you have ever been convicted of a crime, or if there are charges pending against you, you must also include that information in the Complaint.

The Complaint should also be accompanied by a sworn affidavit stating your name, date of birth, social security number, whether or not you have ever been convicted of a crime, and whether any criminal charges are pending against you and, if such convictions or pending charges exist, you must provide such details in connection therewith sufficient to readily identify the matter referred to. The sworn affidavit shall also recite that the action for a change of name is not being instituted for purposes of avoiding or obstructing criminal prosecution or for avoiding creditors or perpetrating a criminal or civil fraud. See N.J.S.A. 2A:52-1.

2. Send a Copy of the Order Fixing a Hearing Date to the Division of Criminal Justice

After you file a Verified Complaint, the Court will return an Order Fixing a Date of Hearing with a docket number. This Order must be sent to the Director of Criminal Justice via certified and regular mail at least twenty (20) days before the hearing. If you have criminal charges pending, this must also be sent to the prosecuting office. Proof that the appropriate parties were notified should be filed with the court.

3. Court Hearing

Finally, there will be a court hearing, wherein you must present proof of your current name. The judge and/or your attorney will ask you several questions on the record to establish the reasons for the name change.

After the hearing, the Court will issue a signed Final Judgment and a Final Judgment Addendum. The Final Judgment and Final Judgment Addendum will need to be sent to the Department of Treasury and the Registrar of Vital Statistics. If you have a driver’s license, you will need to present certified copies of the Final Judgment and Final Judgment Addendum in person to the Motor Vehicle Commission.

Should you require assistance with a name change, our experienced attorneys are fully prepared to provide knowledgeable and professional support throughout the process. Contact our firm to schedule a consultation.