Change Of Name Deed Service Birmingham - Expert Solicitors & Commissioners for Oaths

Mr Arshad Mahmood is a Solicitor and Commissioner for Oaths at Premium Solicitors Ltd with more than 21 years of Post Qualification Experience (PQE) as a Solicitor and Commissioner for Oaths.

What is a change of name deed or deed poll?

A deed poll, also called a change of name deed, is a legal document recording a person’s decision to give up their former name and use a new one. It provides evidence of the link between the old and new names. You can use it when asking organisations to update their records, subject to their individual requirements.

Can Premium Solicitors draft and witness a change of name deed?

Yes. Our solicitors can prepare an unenrolled change of name deed and arrange for the required signing and witnessing. If you already have a completed deed, we also offer a signature-witnessing appointment. We can also witness specified documents for an application to enrol a deed poll. 

What is the difference between an enrolled and an unenrolled deed poll?

An unenrolled deed poll is signed and witnessed without being placed on the High Court’s public record. An enrolled deed poll is registered through the High Court, creating a public record of the name change and requiring a separate court application. An unenrolled deed poll may be sufficient, but some organisations require an enrolled deed poll. Check the requirements of the organisation you need to notify.

Do I have to enrol my deed poll with the High Court?

Usually not. A person aged 16 or over can make an unenrolled deed poll and begin using their new name. Enrolment is an option if the relevant rules permit it or a receiving organisation requires it. Because enrolment makes details public, check whether it is necessary before applying.

What age must I be to change my own name by deed poll?

If you are 16 or over, you can usually make your own unenrolled deed poll. An adult aged 18 or over can apply to enrol a deed poll with the High Court. A person aged 16 or 17 may also make an unenrolled deed poll, although a court order or particular application can affect the requirements. 

Can I change my child’s name by deed poll?

Yes, but a child’s name change requires particular care. For a child under 16, the consent of everyone with parental responsibility is generally needed, unless a court order permits the change. Separate rules and forms apply to enrolling a deed poll for someone under 18. 

What if the other parent does not agree to our child’s name change?

Do not assume that one parent’s signature will be enough. If someone with parental responsibility does not consent, you may need a court order authorising the change. Whether an existing child arrangements order, special guardianship order or other order affects the position should be checked before preparing the deed. Our family law solicitors can discuss the available options.

Does an unenrolled deed poll need two witnesses?

GOV.UK’s procedure for making your own unenrolled deed poll calls for two witnesses aged 18 or over. The High Court’s deed poll forms also have their own witness requirements. Some organisations have additional rules about who they will accept as a witness. If you want a solicitor to witness your signature, send us the exact deed or form first so we can check how many witnesses are required and what each person must sign.

Can I sign my change of name deed before the appointment?

If you have booked a witnessing appointment for an unenrolled change of name deed, please leave the deed unsigned. Sign it in the physical presence of the required witness or witnesses. 

Is a change of name deed the same as a statutory declaration?

Not necessarily. A deed poll records the change of name, while a statutory declaration is a formal statement of facts made before an authorised person. A statutory declaration can be part of the supporting paperwork for an enrolled deed poll. Premium Solicitors also offers a drafted change of name declaration service. Tell us whether you need a deed poll, a statutory declaration, or both.

Do I need a deed poll after marriage or divorce?

It depends on the name you want to use and the requirements of the organisation updating its records. A marriage or civil partnership certificate, or documents relating to a divorce, may provide sufficient evidence for some changes. A deed poll may be useful if you are choosing a different name or the available documents do not establish the link between your names. Check with the passport office, bank or other recipient before booking.

Can I change my first name, surname or spelling using a deed poll?

Yes. A deed poll can record a change to your first name, middle names or surname, or a change in spelling. There are restrictions on the form of the new name: for example, GOV.UK says it must be pronounceable and must not be offensive or against the public interest. A deed poll is not used merely to change a title such as Mr or Dr.

Will a deed poll automatically update my passport, driving licence or bank account?

No. You must contact each organisation and follow its process for changing your records. HM Passport Office, DVLA, banks and other organisations may ask for the deed, identification and evidence that you use your new name. A deed poll does not automatically replace or alter your birth certificate. Check whether each organisation wants the original document or will accept a copy.

What documents should I bring to my appointment?

Bring valid photo identification, your unsigned deed or forms if already prepared, and any instructions from the organisation requesting them. For a child’s name change, bring the full birth certificate, evidence of parental responsibility and consent, and any relevant court order. For an enrolment application, bring the applicable High Court forms and supporting documents, and the person signing the statutory declaration must also attend the appointment with their valid photo ID. 

Where can I book a change of name deed appointment?

Premium Solicitors offers change of name deed services in Wimbledon, London and Birmingham city centre. Appointments are available seven days a week, subject to availability. Please book an appointment online for the service you need.

Can I have my deed witnessed by video call?

No. A witness to the signing of a deed must be physically present. Our advertised witnessing appointments take place in person at our London and Birmingham offices. 

Will my change of name deed be accepted by every organisation?

Acceptance depends on the organisation’s rules and the document’s wording, signing and supporting evidence. Some recipients accept an unenrolled deed poll; others ask for an enrolled deed poll or additional proof that you use the new name. Check their requirements first. 

Ready to change your name? Book a change of name deed appointment online with Premium Solicitors in Wimbledon, London or Birmingham.