Legal Name Changes

Change your name. Update your future.

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Why Legal Name Changes Matter

Whether you're changing your name after marriage, divorce, adoption, gender transition, or simply for personal reasons, updating your legal identity is an important step. But navigating the legal name change process in Washington or California can be confusing and time-consuming without the right support. At Wade Law Offices, we help clients ensure that every legal detail is handled properly—so your new name is recognized across all personal, legal, and financial records. From court petitions to Social Security and estate documents, we’re here to make the transition smooth, accurate, and fully compliant.

How We Can Help

Clear guidance and complete legal support for your name change.

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Court Petition Preparation

We prepare and file your name change petition, ensuring it meets all state and county requirements.

Hearing Coordination

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If a court appearance is required, we guide you through the process and represent your interests.

Document Updates

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We assist with updating your estate plan, deeds, trust documents, and other legal records to reflect your new name.

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Government Notifications

Support with notifying the Social Security Administration, DMV, IRS, and other agencies of your new legal name.

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Family or Minor Name Changes

We assist parents or guardians with name change requests for minors and help handle objections if they arise.

Why Clients Choose Wade Law Offices

Efficient. Empathetic. Thorough.


  • Experienced with name change laws in both California and Washington
  • Trusted by individuals, couples, and families for estate and identity planning
  • Full legal integration—so your name is updated across all vital records
  • Clear pricing, compassionate support, and fast turnaround times


Changing your name doesn’t have to be complicated. We’ll make it seamless.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need a court order to change my name?

    Yes, unless the change occurs through marriage or divorce, most adult and minor name changes require a court order.

  • How long does the name change process take?

    In most cases, it takes 4–8 weeks depending on court scheduling and document processing.

  • Will my estate planning documents need to be updated?

    Yes. We help ensure all trusts, wills, powers of attorney, and other legal documents reflect your new legal name.

  • Can I change a child’s name without the other parent’s consent?

    Usually, both parents must be notified. If the other parent objects, a hearing may be required to resolve the dispute.

  • What documents will I need to update after a name change?

    We’ll help you update Social Security, driver’s license, passport, IRS records, estate documents, and more.

We’re Ready to Help

Let’s simplify your legal name change from start to finish—so you can move forward with confidence.