Change child's name match gender one parent
Overview
Change your child's name to match their gender identity
In California, you can ask the court to change your child’s legal name to make it match their gender identity.
If you are the only parent asking the court to change your child’s legal name, you have to file a petition with the court, let the other parent know about it, and go to a court hearing if necessary. If your child’s other parent does not agree to change your child’s name, they have the right to oppose your request.
If the judge approves your request, you will get a decree changing your child’s name. The process generally takes about 2 to 3 months.
Choose any part of the process below to get step-by-step instructions.
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1. File a petition with the court
First, you fill out and file court papers and pay a fee.
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2. Let your child’s other parent know
Next, you have to serve (notify) the other parent in the proper legal way so that they know about your request.
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3. Go to a hearing (if required)
If the other parent objects to the request, you’ll have a hearing where the judge will make a decision. The court will let you know if there will be a hearing.
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4. Get your decree
If the judge approves your request, you'll get a signed decree. You can use this to change your child’s name on any legal documents, like their birth certificate, social security card, or passport.