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The Cobb Name Change form is a process provided by the Superior Court of Cobb County to help individuals legally change their names. This form is specifically for adults and follows state laws outlined in O.C.G.A. § 19-12-1 through § 19-12-4 and § 31-10-23(d). It is essential to understand that filings regarding name changes may have various accompanying legal matters, such as legitimations and divorces, which each have their own legal implications. Before proceeding, it is advisable to consult a lawyer, as they can provide guidance and address potential issues that might arise during the process. This form packet includes several important documents: a Petition to Change Name of Adult, Verification of Name Change Petition, Notice of Petition, and others, each serving a specific purpose. The necessary steps for completing a name change involve filling out various forms, having them notarized, filing them at the court, and publishing a notice in The Marietta Daily Journal. This publication is required and must run for four weeks, occurring alongside a mandatory waiting period of 30 days before a final court hearing can be scheduled. It is important to complete each form accurately to avoid any delays or issues with the court. Each form must be printed clearly in black ink, and you should keep your personal details secure, especially if there are safety concerns. After the final hearing, if approved, the final order will allow you to change your name on various official documents, including your birth certificate, if you choose to do so.

Cobb Name Change Example

Superior Court of Cobb County

INSTRUCTIONS FOR NAME CHANGE OF ADULT

WHAT IS THE LAW ABOUT CHANGING NAMES IN GEORGIA?

Court cases that are only about changing names are covered by O.C.G.A. § 19-12-1 through § 19-12-4 and § 31-10-23(d). Some other court cases can also include name changes as part of the case, such as legitimations, paternity actions, and divorces. Each of the aforementioned actions has its own corresponding law and is not included in this packet of forms.

GENERAL COMMENTS

It is a good idea to talk to a lawyer before filing any court action. This name change is no exception to that rule. There are often more issues involved than you might realize if you fail to get legal advice. If you do talk to a lawyer before filing this action, it is a good idea to review the forms and instructions in this packet before you talk to the lawyer so that you will be able to make the best use of your time with the lawyer. State law, O.C.G.A. § 15-19-51, prohibits court personnel (including staff attorneys, law clerks, calendar clerks, Clerk’s Office staff, and Sheriff’s Department staff) from giving legal advice or answering legal questions. This rule also applies to the Cobb County Law Library.

FORMS INCLUDED IN THIS PACKET:

(1)Petition to Change Name of Adult - (2 pages)

(2)Verification of Name Change Petition - (1 page)

(3)Notice of Petition of Change Name of Adult - (1 page)

(4)General Civil Case Filing Information Form - (also available in Clerk’s Office)

(5)Final Order Changing Name of Adult - (1 page)

(6)General Civil Case Final Disposition Information Form - (also available in Clerk’s Office)

BASIC STEPS FOR NAME CHANGE OF ADULT:

STEP 1: Fill out the Petition, Verification, Notice, and Case Filing Information Forms. Sign the forms in front of a notary public. (Save the Final Order and Case Disposition Information forms for later, when you have your final hearing).

STEP 2: Make copies of all the forms.

STEP 3: File the forms at the Superior Court Clerk’s Office.

STEP 4: Arrange for publication of the Notice in The Marietta Daily Journal.

STEP 5: Wait the required time, and prepare the forms for the final hearing.

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“Adult Name Change Packet “

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Provided by the Superior Court of Cobb County.

Rev. 4 2/2017

Superior Court of Cobb County

STEP 6:Schedule and attend the final court hearing.

STEP 7:File the final order and get a certified copy of it.

STEP 8:(Optional) Change birth certificate.

DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS FOR NAME CHANGE OF ADULT:

The rest of these instructions tell you how to fill out each form and complete each step of the process to

complete your name change. Please read these instructions and each form very carefully. Missing or

misreading a word could cause you to make serious errors in your case, causing confusion and delays, and

even causing the Court to deny the name changes you are requesting.

You must type or print in black ink on any forms you will file in Cobb County Courts.

STEP 1(A):

PETITION TO CHANGE NAME OF ADULT

•Caption (Heading):

Type or print your current name on the blank provided (to the left of the vertical line where it says Petitioner). Do not fill in the Civil Action Case Number. The clerk will assign a number to your case when you file your petition in the Clerk’s Office.

•Paragraph 1: Name and Residency

Type or print your current name on the blank in this paragraph.

Note: You must file this Petition in the county where you live. If you do not live in Cobb County, you cannot file your name change case here.

•Paragraph 2: Birth Date and Place of Birth

Fill in your date of birth on the first blank. If you were born in the United States, check the first box and then fill in the county and state where you were born. If you were born outside the United States, check the second box and then fill in the place where you were born on the space provided.

•Paragraph 3: Old and New Names

On the first blank, fill in your current name. Spell it exactly as it appears on your birth record or other official records you want to change (including any middle name). On the second blank, fill in the new name you want. Spell the name exactly as you want it to appear on the birth certificate or other official records in the future.

•Paragraph 4: Reasons for Name Change

Explain your reasons for wanting the name change in this section. Be clear and reasonably complete, but keep it short.

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“Adult Name Change Packet “

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Provided by the Superior Court of Cobb County.

Rev. 4 2/2017

Superior Court of Cobb County

•Finishing this Petition

Sign your name in the space provided on the last page, and add the date on which you are signing the Petition. Write your address and daytime telephone number where Court staff can reach you, if necessary. However, if you are living in a shelter for victims of family violence, do not list the address of the shelter. Instead, on the space for the address, list only the name of the shelter and the state where it is located. Do not even fill in the name of the county. If your address should be kept confidential because of family violence, do not write that address here. Instead, you should write another address here, where you can be sure that you will receive any information that is mailed to you by the court.

STEP 1(B): VERIFICATION

The Verification form must be filled out along with the Petition to Change Name of Adult. Fill out the caption in the same way that you filled it out on the Petition. Then, insert your name in the space after the words, “My name is.”

Before you sign this Verification, remember that you will be swearing under oath that the information you have provided in the Petition is all true. Do not sign it until you are in front of a notary public. The notary must complete the remainder of the Verification form after you sign it under oath.

STEP 1(C): NOTICE

On the first blank in the main part of the form, fill in your current name. Spell it exactly as it appears on your birth certificate or other official records. On the appropriate blanks, fill in the date you are filing the Petition. On the next space, fill in the new name you want. Spell it exactly as you want it to appear on any official records in the future. At the bottom, fill in the date you are signing the form, and sign your name on the blank provided. Print or type your name and address on the lines below your signature. Make sure your address is complete, so The Marietta Daily Journal can send you the proof of publication.

STEP 1(D): NON-DOMESTIC GENERAL CIVIL CASE FILING INFORMATION FORM

•Case Caption:

This is located on the top left portion of the form. Do not fill in the Case number and Division. The clerk will do that when you file the case. On the lines just underneath the Case Number, type or print the caption of the case, just as it appears on the Petition.

•Petitioner’s Information:

This is located on the top right portion of the form. Type or print your current name, address, and telephone number on the spaces provided.

•Respondent’s Information: Leave this section blank.

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“Adult Name Change Packet “

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Provided by the Superior Court of Cobb County.

Rev. 4 2/2017

Superior Court of Cobb County

•Type of Case and Origin:

This is located in the boxes in the center of the form. Check the box next to “Name Change.” In the area labeled “ORIGIN,” check the box or “Original Proceeding.”

•Related Cases

This is located at the bottom section on the form. If there have not been any other cases in this court about you, leave this section blank. Just sign your name at the bottom and fill in the date.

However, if there have been other cases about you in the Superior Court of Cobb County (for example, divorce, child support, criminal cases, TPO), then you must fill in this section. To complete this section, fill in the name of the judge and the Case Number of the other case. Check the box next to the words “Same issue of fact or grows out of the same transaction.” Then, sign your name at the bottom and fill in the date.

STEP 1(E): NOTARY PUBLIC

After you fill out all of the forms, review them to make sure they are complete and accurate. Then, take them to a notary public and sign them in front of the notary.

STEP 2:

COPYING

Check to make sure you have completed all of the forms needed and that they have all been signed (in front of a notary, where necessary). (Check page one of these instructions for a list of all of the needed forms). Then, make one copy of each of the forms for your records. Separate the copies into sets – one for the court and one for you. Each set should have one copy of each form. Clip each set with a paperclip.

STEP 3:

FILING

Take both sets of forms along with your case to the Cobb County Superior Court Clerk’s Office to be filed. There is a court filing fee for a name change action (the exact amount can be obtained from the Clerk’s Office). You will also have to pay a separate fee for The Marietta Daily Journal to publish the notice of name change. These fees can be paid by cash, check, or money order. Be sure to bring a form of payment with you to the Clerk’s Office, and remember that the two fees will have to be paid separately.

Note: If you have a low income and feel that you cannot afford to pay these fees, you can ask the Court to waive the court filing fee (but not the publication fee). To do this, you should file a Poverty Affidavit and Order on Poverty Affidavit forms along with your other forms that you have taken to the Clerk’s Office. A judge must sign the Order approving the Poverty Affidavit, before the filing of your case can be completed by the Clerk’s Office staff. If the judge signs the order of approval, your filing fee is waived and the case will proceed. If the judge does not approve your Poverty Affidavit, you must pay all fees before your case will proceed.

Tell the clerk if there have ever been cases about you in this court so that the case can be assigned to the proper judge. If your paperwork is complete, the clerk will keep the originals for the Court’s file. Once your fees have been paid or a Poverty Affidavit has been approved by the judge, the clerk will write the

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“Adult Name Change Packet “

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Provided by the Superior Court of Cobb County.

Rev. 4 2/2017

Superior Court of Cobb County

case number on the top of the set of your copies, stamp them, and return them to you. Keep these copies for your records. Ask the clerk which judge has been assigned to the case, and get the name and phone number of that judge’s calendar clerk.

STEP 4: PUBLICATION OF NOTICE

Publication is required in all name change cases. While filing your case at the Clerk’s Office, give the clerk the Notice and payment for the publication fee (check or money order) made out to The Marietta Daily Journal. The Clerk will forward the Notice and payment to The Marietta Daily Journal.

You should receive a Publisher’s Affidavit from The Marietta Daily Journal after the Notice has been published for four weeks. Keep it with your other court papers related to this name change case. You will need this document at your final hearing in order to show the judge that the notice was published.

STEP 5: WAIT AND PREPARE FOR FINAL HEARING

The required waiting period for an adult name change in Georgia is 30 days from the date of filing. Publication of Notice in The Marietta Daily Journal must have been completed. The publication normally runs for 4 weeks, so it will usually be completed at approximately the same time as the waiting period.

•Final Order for Changing Name of Adult:

Fill in the caption the same way you did on the Petition. Fill in the Case Number with the same number the Clerk wrote down when you filed the case.

Fill in your current new name and your new name on the blanks provided. Be sure you spell the current name exactly as you want it to appear on your official records in the future. Leave the rest of the form blank. The judge will fill in the remainder of the form at your final hearing.

•General Civil Case Final Disposition Information Form:

Check the box next to the word “Superior” in the upper left-hand corner of the form.

Fill in “Cobb” in the space provided for county. Fill in the Case Number on the space for the Docket Number. Fill in your name as the Reporting Party; fill in your title, which is “Petitioner.”

Fill in your name on the line for the “Name of Petitioner/Plaintiff.” Check the box for “Self- Represented.” Do not fill in the spaces provided for the Respondent.

Under “Type of Disposition,” check the box for Bench Trial (#6).

Do not fill in the “Award” section or the “Judgment on Verdict” section. Leave them blank.

Under “ADR,” check the box for “No.”

STEP 6: FINAL HEARING

Contact the calendar clerk for the judge assigned to your case. Make sure you have your court papers (including the Case Number) in front of you when you make the call, so you can answer any questions the

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“Adult Name Change Packet “

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Provided by the Superior Court of Cobb County.

Rev. 4 2/2017

Superior Court of Cobb County

calendar clerk may have about your case. Schedule your final hearing. (Some judges require you to make an appointment; others just have certain days and hours when you come in for this type of hearing).

When you go to court for the hearing, take your copy of all the court papers with you, including:

Petition to Change Name of Adult

Notice of Petition to Change Name of Adult

Publisher’s Affidavit (the paperwork sent to you by The Marietta Daily Journal)

Final Order Changing Name of Adult

General Civil Case Final Disposition Information Form

When you get to the judge’s office, tell the staff that you are there for a name change. The staff may ask you for your Final Order form. When you go into the judge’s office, the judge will have you swear to the truth of what you are about to say. Then, tell the judge the following information:

Your name

The county where you live

That you are at least 18 years old

That you are asking the judge to grant a name change for you from your current name of

_____________________ to the proposed name of ________________________.

The reasons you want to change your name, and

That you are not doing the name change for the purpose of defrauding anyone.

If you have not already given the staff your Final Order form, offer it to the judge now. The judge may ask you some additional questions. Then, if the judge approves the name change, s/he will sign the Final Order form.

STEP 7: FILE FINAL ORDER

Take the signed Final Order to the Clerk’s Office and have it filed. Ask for a certified copy of the order. There will be a fee for the certified copy. The certified copy is your proof that your name has officially been changed.

STEP 8: CHANGE BIRTH CERTIFICATE AND RECORDS (Optional)

•Birth Certificate

If you were born in the State of Georgia, you may have your birth certificate changed to show your new name. (The new birth certificate will be marked as “amended”).

To change the birth certificate, take or mail the following document to the Georgia Bureau of Vital Records at 2600 Skyland Drive NE, Atlanta, GA 30319-3640; telephone: 404-679-4702:

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“Adult Name Change Packet “

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Provided by the Superior Court of Cobb County.

Rev. 4 2/2017

Superior Court of Cobb County

Certified copy of Final Order

Copy of your current birth certificate

Money order made payable to “Vital Records Services”

Tell the Vital Records staff that you have had your name legally changed and you want to amend your birth certificate. If you do it by mail, be sure to provide them with your name and address so that they can send you the amended birth certificate.

•Important Records

Take some time to think of all the agencies and companies you may need to notify about your name change. These may include:

Department of Public Safety (driver’s license)

Your bank

Social Security Administration, Department of Family and Children’s Services

Your creditors (such as your landlord or mortgage company, credit card companies)

Child Support Enforcement/ Family Support Registry

Contact these places to find out the steps you must take to give them proper notice of your new name. Some may charge a fee; most will want a copy of your final order.

Congratulations! Your Name Change is complete!

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“Adult Name Change Packet “

Page 7 of 14

Provided by the Superior Court of Cobb County.

Rev. 4 2/2017
Get Cobb Name Change PDF Form

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Governing Laws The process for changing names in Georgia is governed by O.C.G.A. § 19-12-1 through § 19-12-4 and § 31-10-23(d).
Legal Advice Recommended It is advisable to consult with a lawyer before filing for a name change to understand all potential issues involved.
Clerk's Office Role Clerk’s Office personnel cannot provide legal advice or answer legal questions, per O.C.G.A. § 15-19-51.
Included Forms The Adult Name Change Packet includes several forms: Petition to Change Name, Verification, Notice, General Civil Case Filing Information Form, and Final Order.
Filing Steps Individuals must fill out and notarize the necessary forms, make copies, and file them at the Superior Court Clerk’s Office.
Publication Requirement A notice of the name change must be published in The Marietta Daily Journal as part of the process.
Waiting Period A 30-day waiting period is required after filing before the final hearing can be scheduled.
Changing Birth Certificate Changing an individual’s name on their birth certificate is an optional step after the legal name change is finalized.

Guidelines on Utilizing Cobb Name Change

The Cobb Name Change form process requires careful attention to detail. Each step must be followed closely to ensure your name change is approved. Below are the steps to help guide you through filling out the necessary forms.

  1. Fill out the Petition, Verification, Notice, and Case Filing Information Forms. Sign each one in front of a notary public. Save the Final Order and Case Disposition Information forms for later.
  2. Make copies of all completed forms. Ensure you have one set for the court and one for your personal records.
  3. File all forms at the Superior Court Clerk’s Office. Be prepared to pay the associated court fees for filing.
  4. Arrange for the publication of the Notice in The Marietta Daily Journal, paying the necessary publication fee.
  5. Wait for the required period, typically 30 days, to prepare for your final hearing.
  6. Schedule and attend the final court hearing regarding your name change.
  7. File the final order and obtain a certified copy of the order once your name change is approved.
  8. (Optional) If desired, initiate the process to change your birth certificate to reflect your new name.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the process for changing my name in Cobb County, Georgia?

Changing your name in Cobb County involves several steps. First, you'll need to fill out a few specific forms, namely the Petition to Change Name of Adult, Verification, Notice, and a Civil Case Filing Information Form. After notary verification, make copies of all your completed paperwork. File these forms with the Superior Court Clerk’s office, pay the required fees, and arrange to publish your notice in The Marietta Daily Journal. After a statutory waiting period, you'll attend a final court hearing where a judge will finalize your name change. Remember, you must file in the county where you reside.

Are there any legal requirements I should know about before filing for a name change?

Yes, there are some important requirements to consider. You must be a resident of Cobb County to file your name change here. Also, your reasons for the name change should be genuine and clearly expressed in your petition. It’s advisable to consult with an attorney beforehand, as certain factors may influence your case and the potential need for additional documentation.

Do I need to provide any identification when submitting my name change petition?

While you won't need to provide identification at the initial filing stage, you should be prepared to present proof of your identity, such as a driver's license or state ID, during the final hearing. This is crucial so the judge can verify that the information you've provided matches your legal identity.

What should I do if I can't afford the filing fees for a name change?

If your financial situation makes it difficult to pay the court filing fee, you can request a fee waiver. This can be done by submitting a Poverty Affidavit along with your other forms when filing. If the judge approves your request, you will be exempt from these fees. However, the publication fee will still need to be paid.

How long does the name change process take from start to finish?

The entire name change process typically takes at least 30 days. This period includes the required waiting time after filing your petition and the time it takes to publish your notice in The Marietta Daily Journal, which runs for four consecutive weeks. Once that’s complete and you attend your final hearing, you may receive the order to finalize your name change.

Is it necessary to publish the name change notice in the newspaper?

Yes, publishing a notice of your name change is a legal requirement in Georgia. This notice, printed in The Marietta Daily Journal, serves to inform the public of your intent to change your name. After the publication period, you will receive a Publisher’s Affidavit, which you must present at your final hearing as proof that the notice was properly published.

What happens during the final hearing for a name change?

During the final hearing, you will present any necessary documentation to the judge and explain why you are seeking this change. The judge may ask you questions to ensure you meet all requirements and that your request is valid. If everything is in order, the judge will issue a final order to change your name, which you can then use to update your identification and other official records.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Cobb Name Change form can be a straightforward task, but many people find themselves making avoidable mistakes. One common error is failing to understand the requirements before beginning the process. It is essential to review the instructions thoroughly to grasp what information and documents are needed. Skipping this step can lead to confusion and delays later in the process.

Another mistake is neglecting to double-check the spelling of names. When filling out sections that require your current and new names, every detail matters. Mistakes in spelling can result in complications with legal documents and records. To avoid this, take the time to verify that each name is written correctly and matches exactly as it appears on official records.

People often forget to fill in the necessary identifying information, such as their birth date and place of birth. This information is crucial in establishing your identity as part of the name change process. Omitting these details can lead to the rejection of your application. Ensure you provide complete and accurate information in these sections.

Another mistake that occurs frequently is not following the correct format for completing forms. The instructions specify that you should type or use black ink when filling out the forms. Using different colors or handwriting styles can lead to confusion and possibly an incomplete application. Keeping the presentation professional helps in making your case clearer to the court.

The process also mandates that forms be signed in front of a notary public, yet many individuals overlook this requirement. It is vital to ensure that you sign the Verification form only in front of a notary. Not having this verification can undermine the legitimacy of your application.

People sometimes forget to keep copies of their submitted forms. After filing your forms, it is important to make copies, not only for your records but also for any potential future reference. Keeping detailed records helps you stay organized and provides a safety net in case any issues arise down the line.

Payment for necessary fees can also present a problem. Some applicants arrive at the courthouse unprepared to pay the required fees, resulting in delays. It is advisable to check with the Clerk’s Office in advance to know the exact amount needed and the acceptable methods of payment. Having the correct payment ready when filing will streamline the process significantly.

Finally, individuals often rush the publication step. Some might underestimate the time required for publication in The Marietta Daily Journal. Remember, it typically takes four weeks for the notice to appear. Planning this timeline into your process ensures that you are ready for your final hearing at the appropriate time. Allow ample time for each step to avoid setbacks in your name change journey.

Documents used along the form

Changing one’s name through the Cobb Name Change form involves several additional forms and documents that are integral to completing the process efficiently and correctly. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose and is essential for ensuring that the court proceedings are carried out without undue delay or complications.

  • Petition to Change Name of Adult: This is the primary document that initiates the name change process. It outlines the current name, the new name being requested, and the reasons for the change. It must be completed thoroughly and submitted to the court.
  • Verification of Name Change Petition: This form affirms that the information provided in the Petition is true. It requires the individual to sign in front of a notary public, confirming the authenticity of the statements made.
  • Notice of Petition to Change Name of Adult: This document informs the public of the intent to change a name. It must be filed with the court and often published in a local newspaper to notify any interested parties.
  • General Civil Case Filing Information Form: This form provides essential details about the case to the court. It includes information about the petitioner and the nature of the case, facilitating the court's internal processing of the name change request.
  • Final Order Changing Name of Adult: This document is filled out during the final hearing, indicating the court's decision to grant the name change. It is signed by the judge and becomes a legal record of the change.
  • General Civil Case Final Disposition Information Form: This form is used to document the outcome of the case after the final hearing. It contains information such as the case number and the names of involved parties, serving as a summary for court records.
  • Poverty Affidavit: If the petitioner cannot afford the filing fees, this affidavit can be submitted to request a waiver of the court filing fee. The judge will review the affidavit and can approve or deny the request based on financial need.

Each document plays a crucial role in ensuring the name change process is recognized legally and accurately. Following the correct procedures and filling out all necessary forms can significantly streamline the experience in the Cobb County Superior Court system.

Similar forms

The Cobb Name Change form is designed to help individuals navigate the legal process of changing their name in Georgia. Several other legal documents share similar characteristics, often serving specific functions in various legal proceedings. Here are six documents that are similar to the Cobb Name Change form:

  • Petition for Divorce: Like the name change petition, this document initiates a legal process and requires detailed personal information. Both documents ask for reasons behind the requested action and must be filed in the appropriate jurisdiction.
  • Petition for Legitimization: This form is used to establish the legal status of a child born out of wedlock. Similar to the name change petition, it requires significant personal information and may include a requirement for notarization, ensuring the information provided is truthful.
  • Paternity Affidavit: This document establishes the legal father of a child. It functions similarly to the name change petition by requiring the parties involved to provide identifying information and intentions for legal recognition. Both documents may need to be filed with a court for legal standing.
  • Application for Name Change of a Minor: This document mirrors the adult name change petition but is tailored for individuals under 18. It includes forms and processes that bear strong similarities, including the need for parental consent and court approval.
  • Affidavit of Service: Used to prove that legal documents were properly delivered to the parties involved, this affidavit shares the requirement for accurate completion and may also involve notarization, just like the verification form that accompanies the name change petition.
  • Motion to Change Custody: This legal motion is filed to request a change in child custody arrangements. It requires detailed factual information and clear reasoning, much like the explanations needed in a name change petition, ensuring the court understands the basis for the request.

Each of these documents, while serving different legal needs, shares a structure and requirements that reflect the formal nature of legal proceedings in Georgia.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Cobb Name Change form, there are several important dos and don'ts to keep in mind to ensure a smooth process. The following list outlines key actions to take and avoid.

  • Do review all instructions carefully before starting the process.
  • Do consult a lawyer if you have any questions about the name change process.
  • Do fill out all forms clearly using black ink or by typing.
  • Do make copies of all completed forms for your records.
  • Do file your forms at the appropriate Superior Court Clerk’s Office.
  • Do arrange for the publication of the notice in a designated newspaper.
  • Don’t leave any blanks on the forms unless instructed.
  • Don’t forget to sign forms in front of a notary public where required.
  • Don’t provide your shelter address if you are living in a confidential environment for safety reasons.

It is essential to follow these guidelines to avoid unnecessary complications in your name change application.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The Cobb Name Change form can be filed anywhere in Georgia.

    • The name change petition must be filed in the county where the petitioner resides. If you don’t live in Cobb County, you cannot file your name change case there.

  • Misconception 2: Legal advice can be sought from court staff.

    • Court personnel, including staff attorneys and clerks, are prohibited by law from providing legal advice. It is essential to consult a qualified attorney for guidance regarding the name change process.

  • Misconception 3: Missing or incorrect information doesn’t matter as long as the forms are submitted.

    • Submitting incomplete or incorrect forms can lead to serious delays or even cause the court to deny the name change request. It is important to read the instructions carefully and ensure all information is accurate.

  • Misconception 4: The final hearing is just a formality, and one can attend casually.

    • The final hearing is a crucial step where the judge will review your petition. It is important to prepare thoroughly, bring all necessary documents, and treat the hearing with the seriousness it deserves.

  • Misconception 5: There are no fees associated with the name change process.

    • There are fees involved in filing the name change petition and publishing the notice. Separate payments are needed for court filing fees and publication costs. If financial constraints exist, a request can be made to waive the court filing fee, but not the publication fee.

Key takeaways

Filling out and using the Cobb Name Change form involves several important steps and considerations. Understanding these can help alleviate confusion and streamline the process. Here are key takeaways:

  • Legal Advice is Recommended: Consulting a lawyer before starting the name change process can help clarify any potential issues. This is especially important because there may be complexities that one might not initially consider.
  • Accurate Form Completion Matters: Ensure each form is filled out completely and correctly. Small errors can lead to significant delays or might even result in the court denying your request.
  • Publication Requirement: Publication of your name change notice in The Marietta Daily Journal is mandatory. You will need proof of this publication for your final hearing.
  • Prepare for Final Hearing: After a waiting period, you must attend a final hearing. Bring all necessary documents, including the notice of publication, to present your case effectively.

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