Nebraska Name Change

Changing your name in Nebraska might seem confusing, but in actuality it is a relatively simple procedure that you can accomplish on your own. Filing the proper form with the court and paying a fee will get you started. The following information will help you get the process under way.

What forms are required for a Nebraska name change?

The State of Nebraska does not have a specific name change form. You must write your own petition to change the name, use a form prepared by a commercial service, or have an attorney write one for you. Click on the following link and search the Nebraska Revised Statutes for more details: Nebraska Revised Statutes Section 25-21,271

Where do I file the forms for a name change in Nebraska?

The completed forms must be filed with the district court clerk of the county where you currently live. You must be a citizen of that county for at least one year prior to filing your petition.

Do I need to notarize the forms?

Check with your local courthouse.

Is there a filing fee for a name change in Nebraska?

Yes. Check with the clerk of the court to determine the cost. A fee waiver may generally be obtained with a showing of sufficient hardship.

Do I need to schedule a court hearing?

Yes. The clerk will give you a hearing date when you file your petition.

Do I need to publish something in a local newspaper?

Yes. Notice must be published once a week for at least four consecutive weeks prior to the hearing.

Case Studies: Name Change Procedures in Nebraska

Case Study 1: Amanda’s Name Change

Amanda, a resident of Lincoln, Nebraska, had recently gone through a divorce and wanted to revert to her maiden name. She decided to handle the name change process on her own. Amanda researched the Nebraska Revised Statutes and drafted her own petition to change her name. She filed the completed forms with the district court clerk in Lancaster County and paid the required filing fee.

Amanda scheduled a court hearing and followed the instructions to publish a notice in a local newspaper. After attending the hearing and providing the necessary documentation, the court granted Amanda’s name change request, allowing her to legally reclaim her maiden name.

Case Study 2: Michael and Emily’s Joint Name Change

Michael and Emily, a married couple living in Omaha, Nebraska, decided to change their last name to a hyphenated combination of their surnames. They sought legal assistance to navigate the name change process. With the help of an attorney, Michael and Emily prepared the necessary documents, including a joint petition to change their names.

They filed the forms with the district court clerk in Douglas County and paid the filing fee. The court scheduled a hearing for both of them and instructed them to publish a notice in a local newspaper. At the hearing, the court reviewed their documentation and approved their joint name change request, officially recognizing their new hyphenated surname.

Case Study 3: Ethan’s Name Change With Fee Waiver

Ethan, a college student residing in Grand Island, Nebraska, wanted to change his name for personal reasons. However, he was facing financial hardship and couldn’t afford the filing fee. Ethan sought assistance from a legal aid organization to obtain a fee waiver. The organization helped him prepare the necessary forms and guided him through the process.

Ethan filed the fee waiver request and the completed name change petition with the district court clerk in Hall County. The court reviewed Ethan’s application, considered his financial circumstances, and granted the fee waiver. Ethan attended the court hearing and, with the court’s approval, successfully changed his name without incurring any fees.