What's in a Name

Michigan has dramatically simplified the process for legally changing one’s name for reasons other than marriage. The new rules turn what was a months-long process into one that can be completed in days or weeks.

Previously, the process involved a court petition, fingerprinting, a background check, the publication of notice, and a hearing. For petitioners with a criminal history, the process also required the petitioner to overcome the presumption that the name change was being sought for fraudulent reasons.

The updated process look like this:

• Fingerprinting is no longer required.
• Background checks are no longer required.
• The presumption of fraudulent intent for those with a criminal history has been eliminated. However, if the petitioner has a criminal background, the court may still review criminal records.
• The hearing requirement has been eliminated, although courts may still choose to set a hearing.
• If the court does set a hearing, notice of the hearing must published. However, if the petitioner is a victim of assault, domestic violence, harassment, stalking, or human trafficking, or is seeking the name change to affirm gender, the court may waive the publication requirement.

The streamlined process will not only save time, but it will save petitioners the cost of background checks and publication fees. If you are contemplating a name change, Wright Beamer would be pleased to assist. We can be reached at 248.477.6300.