Name Change with Unusual Circumstances

by Raymond
(Martinsville, VA)

Question: My birth certificate has my name as Raymond Lastname, Jr. Years later, after talking with my parents, I found out I was actually the third Raymond Lastname, so I have been using Raymond Lastname III ever since. Who knows why they put junior?

My driver's license, credit cards, financial contracts, tax forms,literally ever other legal and financial document in my name' has it at the III, not Jr. except my passport.

My current passport expires in June. It has my name as Raymond Lastname, Jr. I want to get it changed to Raymond Lastname III. What is the simplest, most direct way to effect this change?

Answer: The most effective way and one that eliminates complications in any other process is to submit an application for a legal name change. The process is quite simple.

1. Complete Application for Change of Name: Form CC-1411 and have it notarized.
2. File the application in the circuit court where you reside and pay the fee.
3. Appear at hearing to testify before a judge concerning the reason for the request.

You should request a certified copy of the legal name change court order at the time of approval so that you can send it in with your passport application.

If you do not want to go through this legal process, you can try requesting the name change when you apply for a renewal. Complete the appropriate application and include the required documents. To prove the name change, you should submit public records that show exclusive use of the desired name for at least 5 years. Note, using this method is often wrought with delays and requests for additional documents.