It is important to prepare for your hearing. Plan to wear nice clothes so that you fit in with the other people at the courthouse.
Plan to bring:
Prepare your responses to the questions that the judge will ask you:
Plan to bring:
- A copy of your petition (all documents that were filed with the Clerk)
- A picture ID, such as a Florida Driver's License
Prepare your responses to the questions that the judge will ask you:
- Whether everything on your petition is true and correct
- Your current name and the name you are changing to
- The spelling of your new name
- The reason you are changing your name
- If you are transgender, you do not have to share your transgender status to the judge, though you can if you feel comfortable.
- You can ask to speak to the judge privately, or you can simply say "This is the name I am known by" or "This name better reflects my identity".
To check on the status of your hearing
Contact your county clerk. See contact information at County Resources.
Plan to arrive at the courthouse at least 15 minutes before your hearing
Contact your county clerk. See contact information at County Resources.
Plan to arrive at the courthouse at least 15 minutes before your hearing
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