Changing Your Name in Kansas
How adults change their legal name in Kansas: the court petition, publication, fees, and restoring a name after divorce.
Short answer: An adult files a petition in the district court of the county where he or she lives, stating that the petitioner has lived in Kansas at least 60 days, the reason for the change and the name wanted. K.S.A. 60-1401, 60-1402; 23-2506
| Legal name change | An adult files a petition in the district court of the county where he or she lives, stating that the petitioner has lived in Kansas at least 60 days, the reason for the change and the name wanted. The court decides whether notice of the hearing is given by mail or by newspaper publication. If the judge finds the petition is true and there is reasonable cause, the judge orders the change. A new name can also be chosen on the marriage license application at the time of marriage. Source: K.S.A. 60-1401, 60-1402; 23-2506 |
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| Changing your name after divorce | On a spouse's request, the court must restore that spouse's former name, either when the divorce becomes final or later. A spouse may also ask the court to change their name to a different name. The Judicial Council provides a form for this. Source: K.S.A. 23-2716 |
Where to get help in Kansas
More Kansas divorce & family law
- Getting a Marriage License in Kansas
- Adopting a Child in Kansas
- Guardianship of a Child or Adult in Kansas
- Establishing Paternity in Kansas
- Child Custody Laws in Kansas
- How Child Support Is Calculated in Kansas
- Alimony and Spousal Support in Kansas
- How to File for Divorce in Kansas
- Legal Separation and Annulment in Kansas
- All Kansas divorce & family law rules
FAQ
How do you legally change your name in Kansas?
An adult files a petition in the district court of the county where he or she lives, stating that the petitioner has lived in Kansas at least 60 days, the reason for the change and the name wanted. The court decides whether notice of the hearing is given by mail or by newspaper publication. If the judge finds the petition is true and there is reasonable cause, the judge orders the change. A new name can also be chosen on the marriage license application at the time of marriage.
How do you change your name back after a divorce in Kansas?
On a spouse's request, the court must restore that spouse's former name, either when the divorce becomes final or later. A spouse may also ask the court to change their name to a different name. The Judicial Council provides a form for this.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.