C12.24 Legal Name Changes

Legal Authority

Legal name changes may be pursued for youth in out-of-home care (OOHC) or young adults on extended commitment in certain circumstances.

An adult who is age eighteen (18) or older, including a young adult on extended commitment, may petition the district court for a legal name change.

The petitioner is responsible for any associated costs for legal name changes.

The SSW:

Provides a young adult who wishes to legally change their name with information on how to petition the court to do so and encourages discussion with their therapist or other supports before proceeding;
Consults with regional leadership regarding a name change for a youth under the age of 18 in the following circumstances:

There is a safety concern if identification by the youth’s current legal name places them at risk;
The youth desires to have the same surname as a caregiver who has made a permanent commitment to them, other than through adoption; or
Other situations in which a name change would ensure the physical, psychological, or emotional well-being of the youth.

Considers the desires of the youth, caregivers, and any recommendations from mental health providers;
Contacts the regional attorney or Office of General Counsel for guidance in the procedure with the approval of regional leadership; and
Ensures that the youth’s name in TWIST is updated to match their legal name once it is changed through the court.