Signing a Deed Poll with an adult witness present in the UK.

Witnesses and Signing Deed Polls

Using a Deed Poll to change your name is a great way to choose the name that best suits you going forward. When someone can use their preferred name officially, it can be freeing. What is the Deed Poll procedure, and what are the guidelines for witnesses and signing? Read on to find out.

When Should I Sign the Deed Poll?

After you get the Deed Poll, you must sign it. The legal term for this signing is “execution,” and it must be seen. Upon submitting your application, you will receive your Deed Poll and instructions for completing it. Your name change becomes legitimate and lawful in this way.

You are solely responsible for ensuring this procedure is completed correctly; if it is not, your name will not be legally changed, and your Deed Poll will not be valid.

Guidelines for Deed Polls

  • You must have an adult witness.
  • Your witness needs to be familiar with you.
  • Your witness ought to be mentally capable and in good mental health.
  • Your witness cannot be a family member, roommate, or partner.
  • A solicitor or notary may be required to witness your Deed Poll signing if you are a British citizen residing overseas.
  • Your witness must be physically present when you sign your Deed Poll.
  • If you are from outside the UK, you should confirm with the embassy what is required in your country.

Deed Poll Witnesses

The witness cannot be a relative, a partner, or anyone you live with. They must be at least 18 years old, of sound mind, and physically present to watch you sign. While one witness is the legal minimum, two witnesses are highly recommended to ensure universal acceptance.

The most common witness selections are as follows:

  • A friend
  • A coworker
  • A neighbour, or someone who lives nearby
  • A solicitor

Before asking someone to serve as your witness, it is best to have a few people in mind in case they are unable or unwilling to do so for any reason.

The Procedure for Signing

After deciding who will testify, you should talk to them about the procedure to ensure they understand what it entails. Allowing them to read the Deed Poll before signing it with a black-ink pen is a good idea.

If you have any queries concerning the Deed Poll validation procedure, speak with a
Deed Poll specialist.

A Deed Poll is a fantastic way of aligning your name with who you truly are, but you must ensure the documentation is handled correctly.

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

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