6 articles about legal
Whether you want your spouse to match your surname or you want an ex-partner to stop using it, UK law is strict regarding consent. We explain why you cannot legally change another adult's name without their permission and the rules around "gifting" a Deed Poll.
Torn between double-barrelling your surnames or mashing them into something new? We compare the traditional hyphenated approach against the modern trend of 'name meshing'. Discover the pros, cons, and legal Deed Poll requirements for both options in the UK.
Just married? Congratulations! If you're planning to take your partner's surname, double-barrel your names, or create a new mesh name, the legal process can vary. Our guide explains when your Marriage Certificate is enough and when you'll strictly need a Deed Poll.
Want to be "User_123" or "Ke$ha"? We explain why the UK Passport Office strictly forbids numbers and symbols, and the only punctuation marks they actually allow.
Want to be like Cher or Madonna? We explain the legal reality of having a "mononym" (single name) in the UK, and why the Passport Office might force you to be "Mr XXX".
Thinking about a new identity? You might be surprised by how easy it is. We explain who is allowed to change their name, the age rules, and the one document you actually need.