Changing Your Name in Rhode Island
How adults change their legal name in Rhode Island: the court petition, publication, fees, and restoring a name after divorce.
Short answer: Name changes are handled by the probate court of the city or town, which has jurisdiction over changes of names of persons. R.I. Gen. Laws § 8-9-9
| Legal name change | Name changes are handled by the probate court of the city or town, which has jurisdiction over changes of names of persons. Source: R.I. Gen. Laws § 8-9-9 |
|---|---|
| Changing your name after divorce | A person granted a divorce may, on request, be authorized by the divorce decree to change their name, even if there are children of the marriage. Source: R.I. Gen. Laws 15-5-17 |
Where to get help in Rhode Island
More Rhode Island divorce & family law
- Getting a Marriage License in Rhode Island
- Adopting a Child in Rhode Island
- Guardianship of a Child or Adult in Rhode Island
- Establishing Paternity in Rhode Island
- Child Custody Laws in Rhode Island
- How Child Support Is Calculated in Rhode Island
- Divorce Records in Rhode Island
- Alimony and Spousal Support in Rhode Island
- How to File for Divorce in Rhode Island
- Legal Separation and Annulment in Rhode Island
- All Rhode Island divorce & family law rules
FAQ
How do you legally change your name in Rhode Island?
Name changes are handled by the probate court of the city or town, which has jurisdiction over changes of names of persons.
How do you change your name back after a divorce in Rhode Island?
A person granted a divorce may, on request, be authorized by the divorce decree to change their name, even if there are children of the marriage.
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.