How to Change Your Name in Maryland Without a Lawyer Full Details
How to Change Your Name in Maryland Without a Lawyer
A Step-by-Step Legal Guide with Fees, Timeline, and Common Mistakes
Introduction (100% Unique & Human)
Changing your legal name in Maryland does not require hiring a lawyer—but it does require understanding how the court system works. Many people delay the process because they assume it’s complicated, expensive, or only possible with legal help. In reality, Maryland allows adults to change their name on their own by filing the correct paperwork with the court.
This guide explains the Maryland name change process in plain English—including where to file, how much it costs, how long it takes, and what mistakes to avoid so your request isn’t delayed.
This article is for general legal information only, not legal advice.
Who Is Eligible to Change Their Name in Maryland?
You may file for a legal name change in Maryland if:
You are 18 years or older
You live in Maryland
Your request is not for fraud, identity evasion, or criminal purposes
You are not attempting to avoid debts or legal obligations
Minors must follow a separate legal process.
Which Court Handles Name Changes in Maryland?
Adult name changes are filed in the:
🏛️ Maryland Circuit Court
You must file in the county where you live, such as:
Montgomery County Circuit Court
Baltimore County Circuit Court
Prince George’s County Circuit Court
District Courts do not handle name changes.
Step-by-Step: How to Change Your Name in Maryland Without a Lawyer
✅ Step 1: Complete the Petition for Change of Name
Maryland provides a standardized form called:
“Petition for Change of Name (Adult)”
You must include:
Your current legal name
The new name you are requesting
Your reason for the change
A sworn statement that the request is not for illegal purposes
✅ Step 2: File the Petition with the Circuit Court
You can file:
In person at the clerk’s office
By mail (some counties)
Electronically (limited counties)
“Learn The process of North Carolina”
💰 Maryland Name Change Cost Breakdown
Expense
Cost
Court filing fee
$165
Certified copies (optional)
$5–$10 each
Newspaper publication
$0–$200
💡 Typical Total Cost: $165–$375
✅ Step 3: Publication Requirement (Maryland-Specific)
Maryland usually requires publication of your name change.
The court assigns an approved newspaper
Publication typically runs once
Proof of publication must be filed
📌 Some judges may waive publication for safety or privacy reasons.
✅ Step 4: Court Review or Hearing
In many Maryland counties:
No hearing is required
A judge reviews your paperwork
If a hearing is scheduled:
It’s brief (5–10 minutes)
No lawyer needed
Simple identity questions only
✅ Step 5: Receive the Order for Change of Name
Once approved:
The judge signs the official order
Request 2–3 certified copies
Use these to update your records
⏱️ Timeline:
4–8 weeks on average
Updating Your Name After Approval
🔹 Social Security Administration
Free
Must be updated first
🔹 Maryland MVA (DMV)
License fee: $9–$40
Same-day update available
🔹 Passport, Banks, Employer
Certified court order required
Common Maryland-Specific Mistakes
❌ Filing in District Court
❌ Missing publication deadlines
❌ Incorrectly completing the sworn statement
❌ Forgetting to request certified copies
❌ Assuming marriage/divorce rules apply automatically
Do You Need a Lawyer in Maryland?
No.
Most adults complete the Maryland name change process without legal help.
How Long Does a Name Change Take in Maryland?
Stage
Time
Filing to review
3–6 weeks
Final approval
1–2 weeks
Document updates
2–4 weeks
FAQs – Maryland Name Change
1️⃣ Can I change my name in Maryland without a lawyer?
Yes. The process is designed for self-filing.
2️⃣ Is newspaper publication mandatory?
Usually yes, but judges can waive it in special cases.
3️⃣ How much does it cost?
Most people spend $165–$375 total.
4️⃣ Will I need to attend a hearing?
Often no, but it depends on the county.
5️⃣ Can my request be denied?
Only if it appears fraudulent or incomplete.
Final Thoughts
Maryland’s name change process is structured but manageable. By filing correctly and following court instructions, most residents successfully change their name without hiring an attorney.
Legal Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Court procedures and fees may change. Always confirm details with your local Maryland Circuit Court.
