Deed Poll for Minors
Changing a minor’s name by Deed Poll involves legal documentation that necessitates parental consent and, in some instances, a court order. This process is categorised based on the minor's age. Select the appropriate age category below to view specific requirements, applicable fees, and a detailed step-by-step guide.
Categories:
- Under 14 Years: Requires the execution and consent of both parents, or a court order if parental consent is not available.
- Ages 14-18: Older minors may have additional stipulations for the consent process.
General Information
- Execution by Parents: One parent will formally execute the Deed Poll.
- Parental Consent: The non-executing parent must sign their consent, affirming agreement to the name change.
- Consent Requirement: The consent of both parents is generally required for changing a minor’s name. In situations where one or both parents' consents are not obtainable, a court order will be necessary.
- Document Quality: The Deed Poll should be prepared on Deed Paper or high-quality paper to ensure durability and compliance with legal standards
Step by Step Guide:
Gather the Relevant Documentation
Prepare all necessary documents to facilitate the name change process:
- Change of Name by Deed Poll Document: Official form to request the name change.
- Affidavit of Attesting Witness: To be completed by a witness present during the signing of the Deed Poll.
- Supplemental Affidavit: Additional affidavit if specific circumstances require it.
- Minor's Birth Certificate: As proof of the minor's identity.
- Parent's Photographic Identification: For validating the identity of the parent initiating the Deed Poll.
- Stamped and Addressed Return Envelope: For correspondence or return of documents.
- Supporting Documentation: Any other documents that support a previous name change (e.g., a previous Deed Poll or marriage certificate).
Get copies of the birth certificate and photographic identification certified to affirm their authenticity. This service is available through:
- An Garda Síochána
- A Practising Solicitor
- A Commissioner for Oaths
Certification is crucial to verify the legitimacy of the documents submitted.
Swear the Affidavit
The Affidavit of Attesting Witness must be sworn to before a practising solicitor or Commissioner for Oaths. This legal step is necessary to verify the witness's credibility and the authenticity of their testimony regarding the execution of the Deed Poll.
Pay the Fees
The fees associated with the Deed Poll are subject to stamp duty and are required as follows:
- Change of Name by Deed Poll Document: €60
- Supplemental Affidavit: €20
Click here for a list of Court offices which provide stamp duty services, facilitating the payment process.
Lodge the Documents
Submit the completed Deed Poll documents to formally register the change of name. This can be done through:
- In-Person Appointment: Book an appointment to lodge the documents at the designated office.
- By Post: Note that only a practising solicitor is authorized to send a minor’s Deed Poll documents by post, ensuring that all legal prerequisites are met.
Additional Notes
- Ensure that all documents are completed and correctly organized before your appointment.
- Confirm that all fees are paid according to the required amounts and through acceptable payment methods detailed by the court office.
General Information
- Execution by the Minor: The minor, under appropriate legal supervision, will formally sign (execute) the Deed Poll.
- Parental Consent: Both parents are required to sign their consent for the Deed Poll.
- Consent Requirement: Consent from both parents is a requirement. In some cases, a Court order may be required where the consent of both parents is not available.
- Document Quality: The Deed Poll should be prepared on Deed Paper or high-quality paper to ensure durability and compliance with legal standards
Step by Step Guide:
Gather the Relevant Documentation
Prepare all necessary documents to facilitate the name change process:
- Change of Name by Deed Poll Document: Official form to request the name change.
- Affidavit of Attesting Witness: To be completed by a witness present during the signing of the Deed Poll.
- Supplemental Affidavit: Additional affidavit if specific circumstances require it.
- Minor's Birth Certificate: As proof of the minor's identity.
- Parent's Photographic Identification: For validating the identity of the parent initiating the Deed Poll.
- Stamped and Addressed Return Envelope: For correspondence or return of documents.
- Supporting Documentation: Any other documents that support a previous name change (e.g., a previous Deed Poll or marriage certificate).
Have Documents Certified
Get copies of the birth certificate and photographic identification certified to affirm their authenticity. This service is available through:
- An Garda Síochána
- A Practising Solicitor
- A Commissioner for Oaths
Certification is crucial to verify the legitimacy of the documents submitted.
Swear the Affidavit
The Affidavit of Attesting Witness must be sworn to before a practising solicitor or Commissioner for Oaths. This legal step is necessary to verify the witness's credibility and the authenticity of their testimony regarding the execution of the Deed Poll.
Pay the Fees
The fees associated with the Deed Poll are subject to stamp duty and are required as follows:
- Change of Name by Deed Poll Document: €60
- Supplemental Affidavit: €20
Click here for a list of Court offices which provide stamp duty services, facilitating the payment process.
Lodge the Documents
Submit the completed Deed Poll documents to formally register the change of name. This can be done through:
- In-Person Appointment: Book an appointment to lodge the documents at the designated office.
- By Post: Note that only a practising solicitor is authorized to send a minor’s Deed Poll documents by post, ensuring that all legal prerequisites are met.
