← Back to resources

Georgia Name Change Petition

August 24, 2026

If you are considering a legal name change in Georgia — whether for personal, professional, or family reasons — the process begins with filing a Petition for Name Change in the Superior Court of the county where you reside. This is governed by O.C.G.A. § 19-12-1.

What Is a Name Change Petition?

A name change petition is a formal legal document that asks the court to grant you a new legal name. It is used by adults who want to change their first name, last name, or both. In Gwinnett County, the petition is filed with the Clerk of the Superior Court.

Why Does Georgia Require Notarization?

Georgia law requires that the petition be verified — meaning you must sign a verification page swearing that the information in your petition is true and correct. This verification must be signed in front of a Notary Public, who confirms your identity and witnesses your signature.

The notarization requirement helps prevent fraud and ensures that the person requesting the name change is who they claim to be. Without a properly notarized verification, the court will not accept your petition.

What the Process Looks Like in Gwinnett County

  • Complete the Petition for Name Change form, including your current legal name, the new name you want, your reason for the change, and proof of Georgia residency.
  • Sign the verification page in front of a Notary Public.
  • File the petition with the Gwinnett County Superior Court Clerk and pay the filing fee.
  • Publish a notice of your name change petition in a local newspaper (as required by law).
  • Attend a brief court hearing where a judge reviews and approves your petition.
  • Receive a Final Order Changing Name from the court.

Where to Find the Official Form

The State of Georgia provides guidance on the name change process through Georgia.gov. You can also obtain the petition forms from the Gwinnett County Superior Court Clerk's office or from the Atlanta Legal Aid Society.

Need this document notarized? Find a trusted notary in your area on Notary of Gwinnett.