changing names legally
Lawyers warn that the process of changing names should be done legally
Lawyers warn that the process of changing names should be done legally. One risks being disqualified for if a new name is presented without legal backing.
Rebecca Apio, a legal assistant with Atiang Otim and Company Advocates, says people should not be scared of changing their names if they have viable reasons. “For example, a Muslim wishing to change to Christianity. It could also be for marital reasons, for example, if one wants to take on her husband’s name,†Apio explains
l Go to a private law firm where you will swear an affidavit.
l Sign the statutory declaration giving the biodata of the person — place of birth, parents’ names, original names and the new name, stating the reasons is signed.
l A deed poll informing the public about the change is prepared and advertised in the media and after 21-30 days, the person assumes the new name.
l It is advisable to gazette the new name.
l The name may then be registered with the registrar of documents.
l The cost varies depending on the law firm one goes to, but it normally ranges from 50,000 to 80,000.
Rebecca Apio, a legal assistant with Atiang Otim and Company Advocates, says people should not be scared of changing their names if they have viable reasons. “For example, a Muslim wishing to change to Christianity. It could also be for marital reasons, for example, if one wants to take on her husband’s name,†Apio explains
l Go to a private law firm where you will swear an affidavit.
l Sign the statutory declaration giving the biodata of the person — place of birth, parents’ names, original names and the new name, stating the reasons is signed.
l A deed poll informing the public about the change is prepared and advertised in the media and after 21-30 days, the person assumes the new name.
l It is advisable to gazette the new name.
l The name may then be registered with the registrar of documents.
l The cost varies depending on the law firm one goes to, but it normally ranges from 50,000 to 80,000.