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How to File a Name Change in Chesterfield County, VA — 2026 Guide

Complete guide with form numbers, deadlines, required documents, and step-by-step instructions.

📅 Updated August 5, 2026 ⏱ 6 min read 📋 Jump to steps

🔑 Key Facts at a Glance

Form Number
DR-123
Filing Deadline
April 15, 2026
Filing Fee
$25.00
Processing Time
4-6 weeks
Office Phone
(804) 748-1200

📋 Always verify form numbers, fees, and deadlines on the official Chesterfield County website before filing. Requirements can change.

Filing deadline: April 15, 2026 Late filings are rarely accepted. Start gathering your documents now.

📋 Step-by-Step Filing Instructions

1

Gather Required Documents

Collect identification documents, proof of residency, and any relevant supporting papers.

2

Submit the Petition

Take the completed petition to the Chesterfield County Circuit Court and file it with the Clerk's Office.

3

Review and Complete Additional Forms

Complete and submit any additional required forms, such as the Order for Name Change, and provide a proposed new name.

4

Attend a Court Hearing

Schedule a hearing with the court and attend to finalize the name change.

5

Schedule the Name Change

After the court hearing, schedule a time to have the name change officially recorded with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles and the Social Security Administration.

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📎 Required Documents Checklist

  • Identification Documents — proof of identity and residency required for the name change process.
  • Proof of Residency — document showing current address in Chesterfield County.
  • Supporting Papers — any relevant documents or evidence supporting the name change request.
  • Order for Name Change — document outlining the proposed new name and terms of the name change.

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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Notifying All Relevant Parties Detail. Failing to notify all relevant parties, such as family members, friends, and government agencies, can lead to missed rights and difficulties in the name change process. To avoid this mistake, ensure that all necessary parties are notified and updated on the name change.
Incorrectly Filing the Petition Detail. Filing the petition with the incorrect court or office can result in delays and complications. To avoid this mistake, carefully review the filing requirements and submit the petition to the correct office.
Not Following the Correct Procedure Detail. Failing to follow the correct procedure for the name change can lead to case dismissal or missed rights. To avoid this mistake, carefully follow the procedure outlined by the court and seek professional review at key decision points.
Not Updating All Records Detail. Failing to update all relevant records, such as government documents and identification, can result in difficulties and complications. To avoid this mistake, ensure that all records are updated with the new name.

📍 Where to File

Chesterfield County Circuit Court Clerk's Office

100 Government Center, Chesterfield, VA 23832

📞 (804) 748-1200

🌐 Official website: Search for Chesterfield County Circuit Court Clerk's Office →

🕐 Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM EST

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🙋 Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical processing time for a name change in Chesterfield County?

Typical processing time is 4-6 weeks, but may vary depending on the court's schedule and any additional required forms.

How much does it cost to file for a name change in Chesterfield County?

The filing fee is $25.00, but may vary depending on the court's requirements and any additional forms required.

Do I need to notify all relevant parties of the name change?

Yes, it is recommended to notify all relevant parties, such as family members, friends, and government agencies, to ensure they are updated on the name change.

Can I change my name without a court hearing?

No, a court hearing is typically required to finalize the name change, but may vary depending on the specific circumstances and requirements of the court.

🗺️ Name Change in Nearby Areas

Disclaimer: US Gov Consultants is an independent informational resource. We are not affiliated with the Chesterfield County Circuit Court Clerk's Office, the State of VA, or any government agency. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Always verify information with official government sources. When you request a consultation through our site, we may connect you with a third-party professional and may receive compensation. How we make money.

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