6 articles about namechange
Conflict over surnames with your teen? We explain the strict UK laws regarding children aged 16+ and the "Gillick Competence" test for younger teens. Find out why you cannot force a name change on a child who says "no," even if you are the legal parent.
Changing a child's surname is more complex than changing your own. Strict laws govern who must consent, especially regarding fathers and Parental Responsibility. We explain the difference between children under and over 16, and what to do if the other parent refuses.
Think your name changes the moment you say "I do"? Think again. We debunk the biggest myths about marriage and name changes in the UK, from the "automatic" switch to the rules for husbands.
You have your marriage certificate and your new passport, but your bank still refuses to update your account? It is a common and frustrating problem. We explain why UK banks reject certain name changes—particularly double-barrels—and how to fix it quickly.
Reclaiming your maiden name after a divorce marks a significant new chapter. But do you need a Deed Poll, or is your divorce paperwork enough? We explain the difference between using your Decree Absolute and using a Deed Poll to update your passport, bank, and driving licence.
Thinking of combining your surname with your partner's? Double-barrelling is a popular modern choice, but it comes with unique challenges. From avoiding the "end of the lineage" to battling long forms, we weigh up the benefits, the downsides, and the legal steps required in the UK.