If you would like to change your name you can do so simply by way of usage without needing to go through any formalities. However, in practice it is often necessary to provide evidence of a change of name. Most people therefore change their name by way of “Change of Name Deed”. A Change of Name Deed can be used to change any part or all of your name. For example, you can change your forenames, surname or both names, remove names, change the spelling of your names or rearrange your existing forenames. Double-barrelled surnames are particularly popular nowadays. You can change your name by Deed as often as you like, at any time and for any reason. In the UK anyone who wants to can change their name but there are certain restrictions. You cannot change your name: 1. in order to commit an illegal act such as fraud or deception 2. to something that is rude or offensive 3. to imply or include a title such as Lord, Lady, Duke or Duchess 4. to something that includes symbols or numbers. We can prepare your change of name deed for you. Once you have changed your name by Deed your new name will be accepted by all United Kingdom government departments and agencies, companies and organisations to enable you to get all your documents and records reissued or changed to your new name including your UK passport, driving licence and bank accounts. When we prepare your Change of Name Deed we will send the document to you to be signed and dated by you. It must be signed in the presence of an independent witness (such as a friend, neighbour or work colleague or a professional person though not a relative). The procedure is very straightforward for adults. The procedure could be more complex if you are wanting to change a child’s name. This will depend upon who has parental responsibility for your child. In certain circumstances you may need either the consent of others with parental responsibility or a court order. We would need to discuss this with you. Once signed your Change of Name Deed becomes your documentary proof of your legal change of name, which you will need to show to all government departments, companies and organisations that hold your personal records, instructing them to change your name. You can also apply for a new British passport, UK driving licence, chequebook, credit cards and so on to be reissued in your new name. You must begin to use your new name and ensure everyone else addresses you by that name.