Family Law

You can change your name at 16 by creating an ‘unenrolled deed poll’ yourself. You can enlist the help of a legal professional, who may charge a fee, or write it yourself. It must be signed by two witnesses over 18 years.

A name change deed template is available here. Note that some organisations will not accept an unenrolled deed poll, only an enrolled one, available to those 18 and over.

You can change your first name, surname or both when you get married. A marriage certificate and Form AP1 generally serve to change your surname, but to change your first name, you must apply by deed poll, which is a legal document to prove your change of name. Be sure to notify all relevant agencies of the change.