How to Change Your Name in California

Divorce, complicated spelling, tricky pronunciation, personal preference -- any of these may convince you that it's time for a new name. And although the rules have changed recently, it's still a relatively simple procedure. How to Change Your Name in California provides step-by-step instructions and all the forms you need to: *choose a name and make it your own *change back to your former name after divorce *change your child's name *get a new or amended birth certificate for you or your child *get identification in your new name, including a driver's license, Social Security card and passport *get a court to recognize a change of gender The 10th edition reflects the latest rules and regulations stemming from 9/11 and the rise of identity theft, and provides the latest forms as tear-outs.