Name Changes · Adult & Minor · Court Petitions

California Name Changes, Handled Properly.

Whether you need a name change after a divorce, marriage, or for personal reasons, Central Law Firm handles the court filings, publication requirements, and hearings so your name change is done right.

Central Law Firm · Serving all of California

Get Your Free Case Review

Confidential. No obligation. Central Law Firm typically responds within an hour.

Meet Your Law Firm

A Name Change Is More Than Paperwork.

A legal name change in California involves a court petition, a court order, publication in a newspaper of general circulation, and sometimes a hearing. Every step has specific requirements — skip one and the petition gets denied.

Central Law Firm handles adult name changes, minor name changes (which require both parents' consent or a court order), and post-divorce name restorations. Whatever your reason for changing your name, Central Law Firm can guide you through the process efficiently and correctly.

— Michael M. Isaac, Esq.

Talk to Central Law Firm →

We Handle

Every Name Change Matter, Handled Personally.

No paralegal-passing. No one-size-fits-all advice. Central Law Firm personally reviews every case that walks through the door.

Adult Name Changes

Personal, cultural, or any reason — California allows it with proper court procedure.

Minor Name Changes

Requires both parents' consent or a court order when one parent objects.

Post-Divorce Name Restoration

Restoring your former name as part of or after a divorce.

Publication Requirements

California requires publication in a local newspaper — we handle the logistics.

Background Check Issues

Prior criminal history can complicate the process. We navigate it.

Court Hearings

If a hearing is required, we prepare and appear on your behalf.

How It Works

Three Steps. One Outcome.

A straightforward process — designed to give you clarity from the first phone call.

1. Free Consultation

Call or submit the form. Central Law Firm personally reviews your situation — usually within the hour.

2. We Build Your Case

Evidence, documentation, expert testimony — every detail prepared before a court hears your name.

3. We Fight & Win

Whether at the negotiation table or in the courtroom — Central Law Firm fights for the outcome you deserve.

From Real Clients

What Central Law Firm's Clients Say

Verified reviews from Google and Yelp — clients who came to Central Law Firm when it mattered most.

★★★★★

Unfortunately, with family law issues it's rare that both parties will leave happy. At the same time its not rare father's are taken advantage of by the courts when it comes to custody, child support, and alimony. Long story short we went from paying $3,000/month to the other party, down to $400/month with the help of Isaac. What's fair is fair, especially to men who are trying their absolute hardest to do everything they need to for their children. If you want good representation be 100% honest about your side of the story and the opposing parties side. Isaac will do everything in his power to help you out. His main concern is doing whats best for the children.

Evelyn L.

Google

★★★★★

Michael Isaac (Mike) at The Central Law Firm is amazing and goes above and beyond for his clients. He is knowledgeable, driven, and passionate about helping others. Mike has guided me through a very difficult divorce and has always been straight forward with me, all while being sensitive to my feelings. He is very compassionate, but also realistic. He knows The Law well and is always willing to help. He gets the job done and with ease! I highly recommend him!!! You will not regret hiring him.

Adriana B.

Cypress, CA

Yelp

★★★★★

If you EVER need a divorce, this is the place. Supper fast and professional. So thankful and the prices are very affordable.

Sabina G.

San Francisco, CA

Yelp

Read More Google Reviews Read More on Yelp

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the questions we hear most from clients considering Central Law Firm.

How long does a name change take in California?

Typically 6–12 weeks from filing to court order, depending on the county and whether a hearing is needed.

Do I need to appear in court?

Not always. Some counties grant uncontested name changes without a hearing. If a hearing is required, we attend with you.

Can I change my child's last name?

Yes, but both parents must consent. If one parent objects, the court will hold a hearing and decide based on the child's best interest.

What are the requirements?

A petition, filing fee, publication in a newspaper, and a court order. We handle the entire process.

Can a name change be denied?

It's rare for adult name changes, but it can happen if there's evidence of fraud or intent to avoid legal obligations.

California Name Changes, Handled Properly.

Get Your Free Case Review

A Name Change Is More Than Paperwork.

Every Name Change Matter, Handled Personally.

Adult Name Changes

Minor Name Changes

Post-Divorce Name Restoration

Publication Requirements

Background Check Issues

Court Hearings

Three Steps. One Outcome.

1. Free Consultation

2. We Build Your Case

3. We Fight & Win

What Central Law Firm's Clients Say

Frequently Asked Questions

Talk to Central Law Firm. Today.