Many transgender people consider changing their names in order to be consistent with their chosen gender identity.
Is a legal name change possible for a transgender person in the state of Georgia?
A little background
The rights transgender people can enjoy are a mix of federal and state rulings. For example, the Supreme Court of the United States has ruled that all jurisdictions must honor same-sex marriages, allowing transgender people to marry whomever they please whether the unions are between same-sex or opposite-sex couples. Still, recognition of transgender rights varies from state to state and extends to matters such as how a transgender person goes about changing the name he or she was born with.
The court order
A transgender person seeking a legal name change will go through much the same process as anyone else wanting a name change. A judge has considerable discretion in family law cases, and anyone concerned about the possibility of rude treatment or a negative outcome will feel more confident having the help of an experienced advocate. Once a court order is in hand, the applicant will find it easier to make other changes, such as acquiring a driver’s license in the new name.
The new name
A transgender person cannot obtain a legal name change to avoid paying debts or to further any kind of fraudulent act. Different states have different rules to follow prior to making a court appearance. However, as long as the applicant is over the age of 18 and meets state requirements, the court should grant the name change.
