Now Accepting Name Change Cases in Illinois
I’m excited to share that Kinza Khan Legal, LLC is now accepting adult and minor name change cases throughout the State of Illinois. Whether you're seeking a name change for personal, cultural, safety-related, or identity-affirming reasons, I’m here to guide you through the legal process with compassion, privacy, and clarity.
What You Need to Know About the Illinois Name Change Process
The name change process in Illinois is straightforward but requires careful documentation and compliance with state law. To begin your case, you will need:
1. Valid Identification
You must be able to provide:
A government-issued photo ID
Your birth certificate (certified copy preferred)
These documents help confirm your identity and eligibility for a legal name change.
2. Criminal History Information
Illinois law requires courts to review certain criminal background information before granting a name change.
You may still qualify even with past convictions—however, there are additional steps and waiting periods for anyone with felony convictions or those on probation/parole. I can help you determine whether you meet the requirements.
3. Court Filing & Hearing
Name change petitions are filed in the county where you live.
Most counties require a short hearing before a judge.
In many cases, publication (public notice) is no longer required, especially for survivors of violence, members of protected classes, and individuals seeking confidentiality.
I will prepare your forms, advise you on any exceptions, and represent you at the hearing if desired.
Who Might Need a Legal Name Change?
People pursue name changes for many reasons. Some common examples include:
● Survivors of Domestic Violence
To protect their safety, privacy, and start fresh without contact from an abuser.
● Members of the Transgender & Non-Binary Community
To align their legal identity with their gender identity and reduce daily barriers associated with mismatched documentation.
● Individuals Reclaiming Cultural or Religious Names
Many choose to restore traditional spellings, reclaim their heritage, or adopt a name that reflects their faith or cultural identity.
● Divorce or Life Transitions
People often change their name after a divorce, marriage, or other major life changes.
● Correcting or Updating Incorrect Names
This includes misspellings, names inconsistent across documents, or names assigned incorrectly at birth. We often see in immigrant communities that names got misspelled during the immigration process - this does not mean you are stuck this way - you have the chance to correct it for future generations.
● Parents Seeking a Name Change for a Minor
This may include aligning a child’s name with the custodial parent, correcting documentation, or ensuring safety.
