If you have a transgender teen, you may be considering helping them with a legal name change. This process can seem daunting, but it can be relatively smooth with the right resources.
This post will outline the steps involved in a legal name change so you can best assist your teen.
Name changes don’t have to be stressful
In Florida, parents of transgender minor children can help them change their legal name by filing a petition with the court. They will need to provide the following information about the child:
- Present name
- Requested name
- Current address
- Date and location of birth
- Former addresses
- Marital status
- If the child has any children
- Any former names
- Criminal history (if any)
- Money judgments (if any)
Furthermore, the parent petitioner needs to provide the following:
- If they are the parent or legal guardian
- Their full name and current address
- Information about any financial judgments or criminal history for themselves
Once the petition has been filed, the court will schedule a hearing. The judge will listen to evidence supporting the name change request at this hearing, which will likely include information related to the child’s gender presentation and time since beginning their transition. After considering all the evidence, the court will decide whether to grant the request.
It is crucial to take action to support your transgender teen’s identity by updating their name and gender on all government-issued identification documents. You will need to notify the Social Security Administration, Department of Motor Vehicles, and local school district of the change. You may also need to provide certified copies of a name change order from a court or other relevant documentation. Following these steps can help ensure your teenager’s life is as stress-free as possible.