To view a helpful video on the Name Change process, go to: (Name Change)
Who can change their name?
- If you want to change your name, you must be 18 or older and a resident of Summit County for at least one year prior to the filing the application.
- If you want to change the name a person less than 18 years old, you and the minor, must be a resident of Summit County for at least one year.
- Only one of the natural parents, a legal guardian, or a guardian ad litem should fill out the application.
Where to file:
- You can only file a name change at Probate Court in the county where you live.
- You can only file a Minor Name Change at Probate Court in the county where you and the minor live.
What to do:
- File the application with Probate Court. A hearing date will be set (normally 45 to 50 days from the day you file).
- At least 30 days before the hearing, you must publish a Notice of Change of Name in the Akron Legal News (cost $35.00) and have proof on file with the Court.
- You must appear at the hearing and speak with the Judge or Magistrate.
- Once the Court has approved the application, the name change will be granted. You will receive instructions on changing your name and other official documents, but you cannot change the original birth certificate.
- File the application with Probate Court. A hearing date will be set (normally 45 to 50 days from the day you file).
- The consent of both biological parents (if living) must be filed, in writing, and the applicant must show an effort to notify the parent(s) of the minor. If you are unable to get the consent, a Notice of Change of Name needs to be served by certified mail to the mother, father, or alleged father. There will be an additional cost for this mailing.
- At least 30 days before the hearing, you must publish a Notice of Change of Name in the Akron Legal News and have proof on file with the Court.
- You must appear at the hearing and speak with the Judge or Magistrate.
- Once the Court has approved the application, the name change will be granted. You will receive instructions on changing your name and other official documents, but you cannot change the original birth certificate.
Forms to File:
- First, middle and last name must be spelled out.
- Copy of your birth certificate must be included.
- Valid Government issued Photo I.D.
Form CN.2 – Addendum to Application for Change of Name of Adult
- If the Applicant has or had been known by any other name(s), all names must be listed.
- First, middle and last name must be spelled out.
- Copy of birth certificate of the minor.
- Valid Government issued Photo I.D.
Form 21.4 – Consent to Change of Name
- Notarized parental consent to the minor’s change of name (mother, father, alleged father).
Form CN.1– Affidavit on Change of Name of Minor
- Information regarding mother, father, or alleged father.
Hearing Requirements:
- Proof of Publication from Akron Legal News, 60 S. Summit Street, Akron 44308.
- Proof of Publication from Akron Legal News, 60 S. Summit Street, Akron 44308.
Filing Fee:
- Filing fee is $110.10.
- If you use a credit card, a 3% charge will be added.
- Publication fee at Akron Legal News is $35.00.
- Filing fee starting at $110.10.
- If you use a credit card to, a 3% charge will be added.
- Publication fee at Akron Legal News is $35.00.