Name Change Proceedings in Adams County
WHO CAN CHANGE A NAME?
In Washington State a person can change their name if the name change is not to defraud another. An example of defrauding another would be to change names to avoid paying bills or other creditors or to escape obligations such as child support. Otherwise, changing names is legal.
Note: A name changed by marriage does not need a court order. The married name becomes the legal name. If the marriage ends, a name change may be included in the divorce decree, or by filing a petition for the name change.
HOW DO I OBTAIN A COURT ORDER TO CHANGE MY NAME?
If you are an Adams County resident, you may file a Petition for Name Change in either District Court. Petitions are available here Petition for Name Change.
Please bring current Identification with you to your court hearing.
Note: If you are a victim of domestic violence and wish to have the name change file sealed because of a reasonable fear for the safety of yourself, you may file a Petition for Name Change with the Adams County Superior Court.
Adams County District Court- Ritzville
210 W. Broadway
Ritzville, WA 99169
Tel: (509)659-1002
Email: Districtcourtritzville@co.adams.wa.us
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO FILE FOR A NAME CHANGE?
The filing fee for a Petition of Name Change is $73.00. This must be paid at the time of filing the Petition. If you are experiencing a financial hardship you may submit an affidavit to see if you qualify for a waiver of the filing fees.
WHAT IF CURRENTLY UNDER JURISDICTION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS?
You must show proof that you have submitted a copy of your Petition for Name Change to the Department of Corrections at least five (5) days prior to the court hearing.
WHAT IF CURRENTLY REQUIRED TO REGISTER AS A SEX OFFENDER?
You must show proof that you have submitted a copy of the petition for Name Change to the Adams County Sheriff’s and to Washington State Patrol at least five (5) days prior to the court hearing.
*If the petition is granted a copy of the court’s order must be sent to both Adams County Sheriff’s Office and Washington State Patrol within five (5) days of the entry of the Order.
You will receive 3 copies of the Order Changing Name. Additional certified copies of the Order will cost $7.00.
- A copy must be recorded in the Auditors office.
- The Social Security Administration requests a certified copy.
- Military personnel may be required to submit certified copy.
- To update a birth certificate please contact the Washington State Department of Health https://doh.wa.gov/licenses-permits-and-certificates/vital-records/court-ordered-name-change
Revised 7/2022