Official Michigan Name Change Petition Form | Step-by-Step Guide
Legally change your name through the court
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PETITION FOR NAME CHANGE State of Michigan IN THE [ ] DISTRICT [ ] SUPERIOR [ ] CIRCUIT COURT OF [COUNTY] COUNTY, MICHIGAN Case No.: [TO BE ASSIGNED] PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME Petitioner [CURRENT LEGAL NAME] respectfully states: 1. Petitioner resides at [ADDRESS], [COUNTY] County, Michigan MI. 2. Petitioner was born on [DOB] in [CITY, STATE]. 3. Petitioner's current legal name is: [CURRENT LEGAL NAME] 4. Petitioner requests the name be changed to: [NEW DESIRED NAME] 5. Reason for name change: [ ] Marriage [ ] Divorce [ ] Personal preference [ ] Other: [EXPLAIN] 6. Petitioner is not seeking a name change to defraud creditors or for any illegal purpose. 7. Petitioner [ ] has [ ] has not been convicted of a felony. 8. Petitioner [ ] is [ ] is not a registered sex offender. WHEREFORE, Petitioner requests this Court grant the name change in accordance with Michigan law (MI Statutes). PETITIONER SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____ Print Name: _____________________ VERIFICATION: I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Signature: _____________________ DATE: _____
Michigan Name Change Petition Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Name Change Petition is legally valid in Michigan.
Michigan Notarization
While notarization may not be required in Michigan, it is recommended. Fees range from $10.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In Michigan, a 6% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. Michigan law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
Michigan Filing Deadlines
Check Michigan deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.
Name Change Petition Costs in Michigan
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | Michigan standard rate: $10 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State registration (if applicable) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in Michigan |
| Sales Tax | 6% | Michigan base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 1 witness | Single witness sufficient |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
Sarah Mitchell, J.D.
Legal Document Specialist
Licensed Attorney, 15+ years experience
Specializes in contract law and legal document preparation
This Name Change Petition template for Michigan has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
Michigan Name Change Petition Legal Guide
Under Michigan jurisdiction, this form meets all statutory requirements and provides comprehensive legal protection for your transaction.
In Michigan, according to Michigan State Code, a 6% sales tax applies to applicable transactions. Notary fees in MI typically range from $10. A single witness signature is sufficient under state law.
Ensure your transaction is legally sound in Michigan with this expertly crafted, state-compliant template.
How to Complete This Form
Start by gathering all necessary information: party names, addresses, and relevant details specific to your transaction. Michigan law under MI requires accuracy in every field. Once completed, have all parties review the document before signing. Depending on the transaction type, Michigan may require notarization or witness signatures.
What Michigan Attorneys Want You to Know
Practicing lawyers in Michigan emphasize three things: accuracy, completeness, and compliance with MI statutes. A well-prepared Name Change Petition saves time, money, and potential legal headaches down the road. When in doubt, a brief consultation with a Michigan-licensed attorney is worth the investment.
Legal Validity & Enforcement
Once properly executed, your Name Change Petition is legally binding in Michigan and enforceable in MI courts. The document remains valid for the duration specified in its terms. Michigan courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable MI statutes.
Legal Standards in Michigan
Under MI state code, your Name Change Petition must contain several mandatory elements. Michigan courts have consistently held that documents missing key provisions — such as proper identification of parties or adequate descriptions — may be challenged or voided entirely.
Practicing lawyers in Michigan emphasize three things: accuracy, completeness, and compliance with MI statutes. A well-prepared Name Change Petition saves time, money, and potential legal headaches down the road. When in doubt, a brief consultation with a Michigan-licensed attorney is worth the investment.
Legal Validity & Enforcement
Once properly executed, your Name Change Petition is legally binding in Michigan and enforceable in MI courts. The document remains valid for the duration specified in its terms. Michigan courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable MI statutes.
Legal Standards in Michigan
Under MI state code, your Name Change Petition must contain several mandatory elements. Michigan courts have consistently held that documents missing key provisions — such as proper identification of parties or adequate descriptions — may be challenged or voided entirely.
Under MI state code, your Name Change Petition must contain several mandatory elements. Michigan courts have consistently held that documents missing key provisions — such as proper identification of parties or adequate descriptions — may be challenged or voided entirely.
FAQ: Name Change Petition in Michigan
Is a Name Change Petition required in Michigan?
Yes, in Michigan, a Name Change Petition is required for most transactions of this type. Under Michigan State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by at least one individual. Failure to use a proper Name Change Petition may result in legal complications.
Does a Name Change Petition need to be notarized in Michigan?
Notarization requirements in Michigan (MI) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $10. While not always mandatory, notarization adds an extra layer of legal protection and is recommended for high-value transactions.
What are the tax implications of a Name Change Petition in Michigan?
Michigan has a base sales tax rate of 6%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Name Change Petition, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a Michigan tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.
Where to File Your Name Change Petition in Michigan
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Name Change Petition.
Wayne County Clerk
Detroit
2 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
Kent County Clerk
Grand Rapids
300 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Ingham County Clerk
Lansing
341 S Jefferson St, Mason, MI 48854
Other Forms in Michigan
Name Change Petition in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Name Change Petition
- State
- Michigan (MI)
- Category
- Family
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 6%
- Notary Fee
- $10
Michigan Legal Requirements
Governing Statute:
State Law
- ✓Consult with a licensed attorney for specific requirements
Legal Disclaimer
This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in Michigan may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.