Name Change Procedures

Changing an Adult's Name 

Users of these forms are instructed to consult Virginia Code Section 8.01-217 and any other applicable Code Sections. These forms are not provided as or intended to replace legal assistance.

If you decide to proceed on your own, you will be expected to follow the same procedures as an attorney. Please DO NOT ask Court Personnel for legal advice, Court Personnel are prohibited by state law to give legal advice.

Step 1:

1. A name change may not be sought for any fraudulent purpose or if it will infringe upon the rights of another.
2. You must submit the Name Change to the Circuit Court of the City/County in which you live.
3. The Application and Order are available online or at the Circuit Court Clerk's Office.
   • Application for Name Change (Adult)
   • Order for Name Change (Adult)

Step 2:

1. Complete the Application for Change of Name and Order for Name Change.
2. The Application must be notarized. 
3. You must include a photo copy of your birth certificate.
   (If you had your name changed previously you must also submit documentation such as a photocopy of your marriage license and/or divorce decree)
4. The filing fee is $44 made payable to Chesapeake Circuit Court.
5. Please provide a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return of a certified copy of the Order for Name Change.

Changing a Ward or Child's Name

Users of these forms are instructed to consult Virginia Code Section 8.01-217 and any other applicable Code Sections. These forms are not provided as or intended to replace legal assistance.

If you decide to proceed on your own, you will be expected to follow the same procedures as an attorney. Please DO NOT ask Court personnel for legal advice. Court personnel are prohibited by state law to give you legal advice.

Step 1:

1. A name change may not be sought for any fraudulent purpose or if it will infringe upon the rights of another.
2. You must submit the Name Change to the Circuit Court of the City/County in which you live.
3. The Application and Order are available online or at the Circuit Court Clerk's Office.
   • Application for Name Change (Minor)
   • Order for Name Change (Minor)

Step 2:

1. Complete Application for Change of Name and Order for Name Change.
2. The filing fee is $44 made payable to Chesapeake Circuit Court.
3. The Application must be signed and notarized by both parents. You must include a photo copy of your birth certificate.

Document Requests

Request copies of marriage, divorce and name change documents using the Circuit Court Clerk's document requests form.