I have no legal papers for the name I have using since kindergarden.

Hello ****! My name is Dolan, and I’d be happy to help with this. I carefully review each question and provide responses based on my years of hands-on experience as a lawyer.
So just to clarify - your current name (the one you’ve used since kindergarten) is not legally recognized at all, correct? And you’re looking to make this name your official, legal name?

Also, do you currently live in Philadelphia, or are you just planning to file there?

Lastly, have you run into any issues with official documentation like your Social Security card or driver’s license?

Got it, thank you for clarifying. Ok! Did you need to tell me anything else? If not, I can start with answering your question.

Perfect. Here’s a detailed overview of what you need to do to file for a name change in Philadelphia:
1. File a Petition for a Name Change: You’ll need to fill out and submit the Petition for Name Change form. This must be done through the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas. You can typically find these forms on their website or pick them up in person.
2. Obtain a Background Check: The court requires a fingerprint-based background check to ensure that the name change isn’t being requested to evade any legal issues. You’ll need to get fingerprints taken and send them to the state police for a report.
3. Public Notice Requirement: Pennsylvania law requires that you publish your intent to change your name in two newspapers - one legal publication and one general circulation paper. This is to ensure public notification.
4. Filing Fees: You’ll need to pay a filing fee when you submit the petition. It’s typically around $300–400 in Philadelphia, but this can vary. If you can’t afford it, you can apply for a fee waiver by submitting a request with supporting financial documents.
5. Court Hearing: After filing your petition and completing the necessary steps, you’ll receive a court date. At the hearing, you’ll explain why you’re requesting the name change. Since you’ve been using this name since childhood, this is typically seen as a legitimate reason.
6. Obtain Certified Copies of the Court Order: Once the judge approves your request, you’ll receive a court order formalizing the name change. You’ll need certified copies to update your Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, and other legal documents.

Do any of those steps sound unclear so far? I can break down any of them further if needed.

Good question! In Philadelphia, you can have your fingerprints taken at most police departments or through a private fingerprinting service. Once you get them done, they’ll send the prints to the Pennsylvania State Police for processing.
The key is to make sure you get them in the correct format (usually FBI standard). When you file your name change petition, the court clerk will typically give you the exact instructions for where to send the prints.

Exactly - you’ve got the order right! Yes, the court will often provide you with a list of approved newspapers. Generally, one will be a legal journal (like the Philadelphia Legal Intelligencer), and the other will be a standard local newspaper.

On average, the name change process in Philadelphia can take 2–4 months. It depends on how quickly you can complete the steps (fingerprinting, newspaper publication) and when your court date is scheduled.
The longest delays usually come from the background check or scheduling the hearing, so I’d recommend starting those ASAP.

No need to stress too much about that - it happens! If you make an error when submitting the petition, the court will likely give you a chance to correct it. Just be sure to double-check all the details:
- Your current legal name matches your existing records.
- The name you’re requesting is spelled consistently across the petition.
- Include your full address and any required supporting documents.
If you’re unsure, some legal aid groups in Philadelphia offer free assistance with these types of forms.

You can absolutely handle this process on your own - many people do. But, if you feel overwhelmed or hit any snags (like issues with publication or court forms), it can be helpful to consult a lawyer for guidance.

You’re very welcome - I’m glad I could help clarify things! If you’re happy with the advice I provided, I’d really appreciate a review. Let me know if you run into any trouble along the way - I’m always here to help.