RALEIGH LEGAL NAME CHANGE
We Go to Battle to Protect Your Freedom
Affirm Your True Identity With a Legal Name Change
Your name is a fundamental part of your identity, and having a legal name that aligns with who you are should not be an uphill battle.
Whether you’re affirming your gender identity, reclaiming your sense of self, or ensuring your legal documents reflect who you truly are, we are here to guide you.
Our legal team simplifies the process, advocates for your rights, and ensures you move forward with confidence.
Take the first step today. Let us handle the paperwork while you focus on being you.
WHY A LEGAL NAME CHANGE FEELS OVERWHELMING
For many in the LGBTQIA+ community, the legal name change process can feel like an unnecessary hurdle in an already deeply personal journey.
The legal system is full of red tape, from background checks and court filings to mandatory public notices that can feel intrusive or even unsafe.
Beyond the paperwork, the process can also carry emotional weight. Having to constantly explain yourself or navigate outdated legal barriers can be exhausting. And unfortunately, the process isn’t always as simple as just filling out a form.
WE MAKE THE PROCESS EASIER, SAFER, AND FASTER
You deserve a name that reflects your true self without unnecessary stress. That’s where we come in. Our experienced legal team guides you through every step, ensuring a smooth, affirming, and safe process. We help you:
- Prepare and file all necessary legal documents with the court
- Navigate criminal background check requirements with ease
- Request waivers for public posting if privacy is a concern
- Provide strong legal advocacy if any obstacles arise
- Update gender markers on official documents where applicable
With a compassionate and knowledgeable legal team by your side, you don’t have to go through this alone.
UNDERSTANDING THE NAME CHANGE PROCESS IN NORTH CAROLINA
Step 1: Determining Eligibility and Gathering Documents
North Carolina law allows name changes for various reasons, but for LGBTQIA+ individuals, the process is especially critical in affirming gender identity. Before filing, you’ll need:
- A certified copy of your birth certificate
- A sworn statement about your residency and financial obligations
- Two affidavits from individuals who can vouch for your character
We’ll help you ensure that all documents are properly prepared to avoid delays.
Step 2: Background Checks – Yes, They’re Required
North Carolina law requires both state and federal background checks for a legal name change. This means getting fingerprinted and submitting your information to the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and the FBI. While this might sound daunting, we handle the process for you, guiding you through every step.
Step 3: Filing the Petition and Avoiding Public Posting If Needed
Once your documents are in order, we file your name change petition with the Clerk of Superior Court. In many cases, the law requires you to post a public notice at the courthouse for 10 days. However, if you’re concerned about privacy or safety, we can help you request an exemption from this requirement.
What Our Clients Say
I must have searched about 30 law offices in my area before finding the Scharff Law Firm’s website. I knew immediately I would be in good hands. Amily was such an amazing person to work with. Not only did we get the outcome we were hoping for, but she walked me through every step in detail to make sure I understood the process and felt safe while doing so. The care and attention she takes cannot be matched! Anyone needing representation should 100% call. I cannot thank her enough!
-Britain Hayhurst
I can’t say enough good things about Amily McCool at Scharff Law. Amily was tremendous in helping a loved one fight charges for an accident where she wasn’t driving. Law enforcement had it wrong, but Amily helped make it right. Her dedication and expertise were evident throughout the process. In another instance, Amily successfully helped a family member reduce a reckless driving charge. Her professionalism and commitment to us was truly outstanding. We felt calm because we knew we were in good hands the entire time! I highly recommend Amily McCool and Scharff Law for anyone in need of exceptional legal support. Thank you, Amily, for your incredible work and support!
-Sally Price
Amily McCool is smart, compassionate, and highly professional. My case took months to run its course. Talk with her. Follow her advise from day one. She will ensure the best outcome, but you must listen and follow her advise. Don’t try to navigate the law on your own. She provided me with advise I really needed and the compassion to help keep me level headed. Amily was successful in my case. I assure everyone she will do everything she can to help you get the best outcome.
-Stuart Fraser
I highly recommend Amily McCool from the Scharff Law Firm. I was unsure about what lawyer I should choose and like most people I googled law firms. After doing my due diligence I decided on the Amily of the Scharff Law Firm.
From the start to finish Amily was personable, professional and very easy to work with. Always there if I had questions or concerns right up to my court date.
She was able to get my case dismissed! I was very very happy. Thank you Amily!
-Gene Million
Amily is extremely intelligent, thoughtful, caring, compassionate and thorough. I am incredibly grateful for her diligence in working on my case, the time she spent helping me, and the resources she made available to me. She really cares about her clients and their success. I would give her 10,000 stars if I could!
-Krystal Callicutt