Legal Name Change Services

Change Your Name Legally and Easily in California

Whether you want to change your name due to marriage, divorce, personal preference, cultural reasons, or simply because you want a name that better represents who you are, California provides a legal process to officially change your name.

When Do People Request a Legal Name Change?

You may apply for a legal name change in California for many reasons, including:

  • Marriage or divorce
  • Changing to a preferred English name
  • Restoring your maiden name
  • Correcting inconsistent names across passports or government documents
  • Religious or personal reasons
  • Updating your identity to better reflect who you are

No matter your reason, we help ensure your paperwork is handled properly and your new name becomes legally recognized.

Typical Name Change Process in California

Document Preparation

We prepare the Petition for Change of Name and all required Superior Court forms.
 Our careful review helps prevent delays caused by missing or incorrect information.

Court Filing & Case Acceptance

We submit your case to the Superior Court in your county of residence.
 You’ll receive:

  • A case number
  • A scheduled hearing date (if required)

Newspaper Publication

California courts usually require you to publish your name change in a local newspaper once per week for 4 consecutive weeks.

We can:

  • Help you choose a court-approved newspaper
  • Coordinate the publication on your behalf
  • File proof of publication with the court

Update Government & Personal Records

After receiving the court decree, you may update your name with:

  • Social Security Administration (SSA)
  • DMV
  • S. Passport Office
  • Banks & credit unions
  • Employment records & payroll
  • School or medical records

Judge Approval & Court Decree

If there are no objections, the judge will issue a Decree Changing Name, which is your official legal proof of your new name.

We provide guidance to help ensure each update is completed correctly.

Why Choose Oakland Oriental Group?

Experience Across All California Counties

We are familiar with the name change procedures and local court requirements throughout California.

Accurate Document Preparation — Avoid Delays

We make sure your forms are complete, accurate, and ready for court filing, reducing the risk of rejection or delays.

One-Stop Service from Start to Finish

From petitions to publication to the final decree, we support you through the entire process—saving you time, confusion, and unnecessary stress.

Clear, Transparent Pricing

No hidden fees. No unexpected charges.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

A legal name change is a court-approved process that officially updates your name. Once approved, your new name becomes your lawful identity.

In most adult name change cases, yes. California courts require a 4-week newspaper publication unless you qualify for a waiver (rare and usually only granted in safety-related situations). We assist with the entire publication process.

On average:

  • Court processing + newspaper publication: 6–12 weeks
  • Updating government records: varies by agency

Timelines can differ by county.

Most name change cases do not require an attorney.
 As a registered Legal Document Assistant (LDA), we prepare your documents at your direction and guide you through the entire procedure.

If your case involves complex legal issues — such as safety concerns, sealed records, or objections — we may recommend consulting an attorney.

Typically:

  • Current ID (passport or driver’s license)
  • Proof of address
  • Any documents related to the name you want to change from (birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.)

We will provide a complete checklist based on your situation.

Getting started is easy.
 You can email, call, or visit us for help.

Email: johnny@eastbayoriental.com
 Phone: 510-626-0770

For immediate questions, use the live chat on our website.

If you are local, you’re welcome to visit our office:

373 9th St, Suite #504
Oakland, CA 94607