Blank Washington County Name Change Form

• Misconception 1: The name change process is quick and easy.

While it may seem straightforward, the name change process in Washington County typically takes about 4-8 weeks. It requires attending two court appointments and completing several forms.

• Misconception 2: You can submit your forms by mail.

All forms must be filed in person at the courthouse. You cannot mail your paperwork, so it's important to plan your visits accordingly.

• Misconception 3: You only need to fill out one form for the name change.

There are multiple forms involved in the process, including a petition, notices, and declarations. Each form serves a specific purpose, so it’s essential to complete them all as instructed.

• Misconception 4: You can use any form of identification.

You must present a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license, Oregon ID card, or passport. A birth certificate issued by a hospital is not sufficient for this process.

• Misconception 5: The court staff can provide legal advice.

Court staff is prohibited from offering legal advice. If you have questions that the instructions do not answer, it’s best to consult an attorney.

• Misconception 6: You can choose any county for your name change.

You must file for a name change in the county where you reside. This ensures that your request is processed correctly according to local laws.

• Misconception 7: You can use initials as part of your new name.

Your new name must be clearly printed in full. Initials are not acceptable, so be sure to write out your complete name when filling out the forms.

• Misconception 8: Once the judge signs the judgment, no further action is needed.

After the judge signs the judgment, you are required to post the Notice of General Judgment of Name Change. This step is crucial for finalizing your name change in the public record.

What forms are included in the Washington County Name Change packet?

The Washington County Name Change packet contains several forms necessary for the name change process. These include: Form 1 - Petition for Name Change, Form 2 - Notice of Name Change Hearing, Form 3 - Order to Show Cause and Give Notice of Name Change Hearing, Form 4 - Declaration of Posting Notice of Name Change Hearing, Form 5 - General Judgment of Name Change, Form 6 - Notice of General Judgment of Name Change, Form 7 - Declaration of Posting Notice of General Judgment of Name Change, and Form 8 - Request for Certified Copies of General Judgment of Name Change. It is essential to complete only the forms needed for each step of the process.

Who is eligible to file for a name change in Washington County?

To file for a name change in Washington County, you must be a resident of Oregon. The name change petition must be filed in the county where you reside. This ensures that your request is processed in the appropriate jurisdiction.

What is the cost associated with filing a name change?

The filing fee for a name change in Washington County is $105. Additionally, if you require certified copies of the General Judgment of Name Change, each copy costs $5.25. It is important to have the necessary funds available when you visit the courthouse.

How long does the name change process take?

The name change process typically takes about 4 to 8 weeks to complete. This timeframe can vary based on the date of your hearing. You will need to visit the courthouse twice: once to file your papers and again to attend your court hearing. Please remember that mailing your forms to the court is not permitted.

What identification is required for the name change hearing?

When attending the name change hearing, you must present valid photo identification. Acceptable forms of ID include a driver's license, an Oregon photo ID card, or a passport. Additionally, you must provide a certified copy of your birth certificate issued by the relevant agency in the state where you were born. Note that a hospital-issued birth certificate is not sufficient.

What steps should I follow to complete the name change process?

The name change process involves several key steps. First, complete the necessary forms, including the Petition for Name Change and the Notice of Name Change Hearing. Next, attend the Name Change Ex Parte Orientation at the courthouse to file your petition and set a hearing date. After that, fill out the Declaration and Judgment forms before your hearing date. On the day of your hearing, bring all required forms and identification. The court will then rule on your request, and if approved, you will need to post the Notice of General Judgment.

What happens if someone objects to my name change?

If someone appears in court to object to your name change, the court will schedule another hearing to consider the evidence related to the objection. In such cases, the judgment will not be signed until the matter is resolved. You may be required to return for a second hearing date to address the objections raised.

How do I obtain certified copies of my name change judgment?

To obtain certified copies of your name change judgment, you will need to fill out Form 8, which is the Request for Certified Copies of General Judgment of Name Change. After completing this form, you will submit it along with the required fee at the cashier's counter. The certified copies will be mailed to you within five judicial days.

When filling out and using the Washington County Name Change form, keep these key takeaways in mind:

• Read Instructions Carefully: Thoroughly review all instructions before completing any forms.
• Required Forms: Only complete the forms necessary for the step you are currently on in the name change process.
• Identification: Bring a valid photo ID and a certified copy of your birth certificate to the courthouse.
• Filing Fee: Be prepared to pay a filing fee of $105.00, plus $5.25 for each certified copy.
• Timeline: Expect the name change process to take approximately 4-8 weeks from start to finish.
• Personal Appearance: You must appear in person at the courthouse to file your papers and attend your hearing.
• Document Preparation: Complete all forms in black or blue ink, and ensure you fill in the case number and hearing date correctly.
• Final Steps: After the judge signs the judgment, post the notice on the bulletin board and file the necessary declarations.

Guide to Using Washington County Name Change

After completing the Washington County Name Change form, you will need to follow specific steps to ensure your request is processed correctly. This involves attending a hearing and providing necessary documentation. Here are the steps to fill out the form:

1. Fill out the Petition for Name Change (Form 1), the Notice of Name Change Hearing (Form 2) leaving the hearing date blank, and the top of the Order to Show Cause and Give Notice of Name Change Hearing (Form 3).
2. When ready to file your petition, attend the Name Change Ex Parte Orientation in Room B-7 at the courthouse on Tuesdays or Thursdays from 12:45 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. Bring Forms 1, 2, and 3, along with a valid photo ID. The clerk will provide you with a case number and a hearing date. Fill in these details on your forms.
3. Before your hearing date, complete the Declaration (Form 4) and the General Judgment (Form 5) without dating or signing it. Fill out the top part of the Notice of General Judgment of Name Change (Form 6) and the Declaration (Form 7).
4. On your hearing date, bring Forms 4-8, your photo ID, and a certified copy of your birth certificate. Remove the notice (Form 2) from the bulletin board and go to the courtroom. A clerk will verify your documents.
5. The court will make a decision on your name change request. If there are objections, a second hearing will be scheduled. If approved, the judge will sign the judgment.
6. If the judge signs the judgment, post the Notice of General Judgment of Name Change (Form 6) on the bulletin board.
7. Take the Notice of General Judgment of Name Change (Form 6), the Declaration of Posting Notice of General Judgment of Name Change (Form 7), and the Request for Certified Copies (Form 8) to the information counter for assistance.
8. Fill in the date the judge signed the judgment on the Notice (Form 6) and sign it with your present legal name. The clerk will check your notice and help you post it on the bulletin board.
9. Complete and sign the Declaration of Posting Notice of General Judgment of Name Change (Form 7) and give it to the clerk for filing.
10. Decide how many certified copies of the judgment you need, fill out Form 8, and pay the fee at the cashier’s. The cashier will keep this form, and the certified copies will be mailed to you within 5 judicial days.

1. Not reading the instructions carefully. Many people overlook the importance of understanding the instructions before filling out the forms. This can lead to errors that delay the process.

2. Failing to bring required identification. It is crucial to bring a valid photo ID and a certified copy of your birth certificate to the courthouse. Forgetting these documents can result in being turned away.

3. Using the wrong ink color. All forms must be completed in black or blue ink. Using any other color can cause the forms to be rejected.

4. Leaving forms incomplete. Some individuals fail to fill out all necessary sections of the forms, such as leaving the hearing date blank or not signing where required. This can lead to delays in processing.

5. Not attending the Name Change Ex Parte Orientation. Skipping this orientation means missing out on valuable information and guidance on the filing process, which can lead to mistakes.

6. Ignoring the posting requirements. After the judge signs the judgment, individuals must post the Notice of General Judgment of Name Change. Failing to do this can result in complications with finalizing the name change.

When filling out the Washington County Name Change form, it’s important to follow specific guidelines to ensure a smooth process. Here are seven things you should and shouldn’t do:

• Do read all instructions carefully before starting the forms.
• Don’t skip any steps outlined in the instructions; each step is crucial.
• Do bring valid photo ID and a certified copy of your birth certificate to the courthouse.
• Don’t use a hospital-issued birth certificate; it is not sufficient.
• Do fill out all forms in black or blue ink only.
• Don’t mail your forms to the court; you must appear in person.
• Do post the Notice of Name Change Hearing on the designated bulletin board.

Following these guidelines will help streamline your name change process and avoid unnecessary delays. Good luck!