Are there any restrictions on what I can change my name in Texas?

When considering a name change in Texas, it’s important to be aware of these legal constraints:

• No Fraudulent Intent: You cannot change your name for the purpose of committing fraud or evading law enforcement or legal actions.
• No Infringement on Rights: The chosen name must not infringe on the rights of others, which includes avoiding names that could cause confusion or names that are trademarked by others.
• Decency and Public Policy: The name should not be considered offensive, indecent, or against public policy. Names that contain profanity, racial slurs, or are deemed obscene might not be approved.
• Numerical or Pictorial Names: Generally, names should consist of characters from the alphabet. While some exceptions might be made, names that are purely numerical, pictorial, or otherwise non-standard can be rejected.
• Celebrities and Public Figures: Choosing the name of a famous person or public figure with the intent to mislead or cause confusion can also be grounds for rejection.
• Legal and Governmental Restrictions: Certain titles or ranks (e.g., “Judge,” “Doctor,” “King,” etc.) that could cause confusion or imply authority you do not have are typically not allowed.
• Consistency in Public Records: Your new name should not create confusion or difficulties in your legal or official documents and records.

When filing for a name change in Texas, the court will review your request with these restrictions in mind. If the proposed name is deemed inappropriate based on these criteria, the court may reject the application. It’s advisable to consider these restrictions carefully when choosing a new name and to consult with legal counsel if you have specific concerns or questions about your desired name change.

For personalized legal assistance in navigating these processes, consider reaching out to the Law Office of Dana Baker at 979-310-5507.