Changing Your Name
Va. Code 8.01-217 — granted unless fraudulent, infringing others' rights, or against a child's interest
A Virginia resident applies to change their own name, or their child's or ward's, in the circuit court of the county or city where the person lives. The application is under oath and gives the residence, both parents' names including the mother's maiden name, date and place of birth, any felony record, whether sex offender registration is required, whether the person is incarcerated or on probation, and any former names.
Ordered unless. The court orders the change unless the evidence shows it is sought for a fraudulent purpose, would infringe on the rights of others, or, for a minor, is not in the minor's best interest.
For a minor with both parents living, the parent who does not join is served with notice and may object, which brings a hearing on the child's best interest. An application for a probationer, a registrant or an incarcerated person is accepted only for good cause.
Sources for this section (1)
- Va. Code 8.01-217 — How name of person may be changed
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Virginia attorney.