Do I Need a Solicitor to Change My Name?

You don’t usually need to use a solicitor to change your name in England and Wales. If you are aged 16 or over, you can make your own unenrolled deed poll and use it as evidence of your new name. That said, some people prefer to use a deed poll service or a solicitor to ensure the document is prepared correctly and suitable for updating their records. For official guidance, see the GOV.UK information on changing your name by deed poll.

What Does a Deed Poll Do?

A deed poll provides evidence that you have given up your previous name and are now using a new one. You can use one to change your first name, surname or middle names, as well as to add or remove names.

Once your deed poll has been correctly completed and signed, you can start using it to update your details with organisations such as banks and other service providers. GOV.UK notes, however, that individual organisations may have their own requirements about the evidence they will accept.

What About an Enrolled Deed Poll?

You also have the option of enrolling your deed poll with the High Court if you are 18 or over. This puts your change of name on public record and involves a more formal application process. You can find the official requirements for enrolling a deed poll on GOV.UK.

There are also circumstances where you might not need a deed poll at all. For example, if you are taking your spouse’s or civil partner’s surname after marriage or entering into a civil partnership, your certificate can usually be used as evidence instead.

So, while you can deal with a name change yourself, using a professional deed poll service can make the process simpler if you would rather have the paperwork prepared for you.

Read more information on hyphenating your surname, legally binding deed polls and top baby names of 2026.

If you would like to change your name, contact deedpolls.co.uk.