Rhode Island Name Change Petition Template — Print, Sign & File Today
Legally change your name through the court
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PETITION FOR NAME CHANGE State of Rhode Island IN THE [ ] DISTRICT [ ] SUPERIOR [ ] CIRCUIT COURT OF [COUNTY] COUNTY, RHODE ISLAND Case No.: [TO BE ASSIGNED] PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME Petitioner [CURRENT LEGAL NAME] respectfully states: 1. Petitioner resides at [ADDRESS], [COUNTY] County, Rhode Island RI. 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 Rhode Island law (RI Statutes). PETITIONER SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____ Print Name: _____________________ VERIFICATION: I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Signature: _____________________ DATE: _____
FAQ: Name Change Petition in Rhode Island
Is a Name Change Petition required in Rhode Island?
Yes, in Rhode Island, a Name Change Petition is required for most transactions of this type. Under Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
Notarization requirements in Rhode Island (RI) 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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island has a base sales tax rate of 7%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Name Change Petition, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a Rhode Island tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.
Name Change Petition Costs in Rhode Island
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | Rhode Island standard rate: $10 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State registration (if applicable) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in Rhode Island |
| Sales Tax | 7% | Rhode Island base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 1 witness | Single witness sufficient |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
Where to File Your Name Change Petition in Rhode Island
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Name Change Petition.
Rhode Island County Clerk
Rhode Island Capital
Main Government Building, Rhode Island
District County Clerk
Rhode Island Metro Area
County Courthouse, RI
Rhode Island Name Change Petition Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Name Change Petition is legally valid in Rhode Island.
Rhode Island Notarization
While notarization may not be required in Rhode Island, it is recommended. Fees range from $10.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In Rhode Island, a 7% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. Rhode Island law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
Rhode Island Filing Deadlines
Check Rhode Island deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.
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 Rhode Island has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
Rhode Island Name Change Petition Legal Guide
According to Rhode Island laws, this agreement holds legal weight once properly signed and notarized, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
In Rhode Island, according to Rhode Island State Code, a 7% sales tax applies to applicable transactions. Notary fees in RI typically range from $10. A single witness signature is sufficient under state law.
Using this template ensures you're protected under Rhode Island law while saving time and money on legal fees.
Your Rhode Island Filing Guide
After downloading, take your time filling in each section. RI statutes require that all information be accurate and current. Once signed by all parties, determine whether Rhode Island requires you to file the document with a government office, record it with the county, or simply retain it for your records.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Rhode Island attorneys frequently see these errors:
- Using an out-of-state template that doesn't comply with RI law
- Forgetting to include required witness signatures
- Leaving fields blank or using abbreviations
- Not retaining copies for personal records
- Failing to update documents when Rhode Island law changes
How Rhode Island Courts View This Document
Rhode Island courts apply RI statutory standards when evaluating a Name Change Petition. Judges look for: clear language, proper identification of parties, lawful purpose, and correct execution formalities. Meeting these standards ensures your document will be upheld if ever challenged.
What Rhode Island Law Requires
Rhode Island's statutes are clear: a valid Name Change Petition must identify all parties by full legal name, include the date of execution, and be signed in the presence of at least one witness where applicable. Failure to meet these requirements under RI law can render the document unenforceable.
Rhode Island attorneys frequently see these errors:
- Using an out-of-state template that doesn't comply with RI law
- Forgetting to include required witness signatures
- Leaving fields blank or using abbreviations
- Not retaining copies for personal records
- Failing to update documents when Rhode Island law changes
How Rhode Island Courts View This Document
Rhode Island courts apply RI statutory standards when evaluating a Name Change Petition. Judges look for: clear language, proper identification of parties, lawful purpose, and correct execution formalities. Meeting these standards ensures your document will be upheld if ever challenged.
What Rhode Island Law Requires
Rhode Island's statutes are clear: a valid Name Change Petition must identify all parties by full legal name, include the date of execution, and be signed in the presence of at least one witness where applicable. Failure to meet these requirements under RI law can render the document unenforceable.
Rhode Island's statutes are clear: a valid Name Change Petition must identify all parties by full legal name, include the date of execution, and be signed in the presence of at least one witness where applicable. Failure to meet these requirements under RI law can render the document unenforceable.
Other Forms in Rhode Island
Name Change Petition in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Name Change Petition
- State
- Rhode Island (RI)
- Category
- Family
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 7%
- Notary Fee
- $10
Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.