Changing Your Name with a Deed Poll

There are many reasons why someone may wish to change their name. It may be to reflect a new stage in life, mark a personal decision, or simply because you prefer a different name. Whatever the reason, the most straightforward and widely accepted way to make this change official is through a deed poll.

A deed poll is a legal document that records your decision to stop using your old name and start using a new one. By signing it, you are making a clear declaration that you will:

Abandon your previous name.

• Be known only by your new chosen name.

• Expect all organisations and individuals to address you by that new name.

• This single document provides the evidence you need to update records with government departments, banks, employers, schools, and other organisations.

  
  

With a deed poll, you have flexibility over the changes you want to make. You can:

• Add or remove names.

• Change the spelling of your existing name.

• Create a double-barrelled surname by adding a hyphen.

• That said, there are some rules. Your new name must:

• Contain both a first name and a surname.

• Be pronounceable.

• Avoid using numbers or symbols (except hyphens in surnames).

• Not be offensive or misleading.

  
  

At Haris Law, we make the process as simple and stress-free as possible. Once you have decided on your new name, we will:

• Draft the deed poll document with the correct wording.

• Arrange a quick appointment for you to sign it in the presence of a witness at our office.

• Provide you with your official deed poll so you can update your records with organisations straight away.

• Because this is an official, solicitor-prepared document, it is widely accepted and reduces the risk of delays or problems when you update your details.

  
  

Who Can Apply?

• Adults (16 and over): Anyone aged 16 or above can sign their own deed poll.

• Children (under 16): If you wish to change a child’s name, you must have written consent from everyone with parental responsibility. Identification from each parent or guardian will also be required. This safeguard ensures that decisions about a child’s name are made jointly by those with legal responsibility for them.

  
  

We understand that a name change is an important and personal decision. To make the process easier, we:

• Offer a fixed fee service so you know exactly what it will cost from the outset.

• Provide flexible, fast appointments so you can complete the process quickly.

• Ensure your deed poll is professionally drafted and properly executed, giving you confidence it will be accepted by all official bodies.

  
  

Changing your name is a big decision, but the legal process does not need to be complicated. With our fixed fee service and quick appointments, we can help you complete your name change smoothly and with minimum fuss. If you are ready to take the next step, contact our team today to book your appointment.