Name Change
Legal Information
This section of PALawHelp.org has information and resources about Name Change issues in Pennsylvania.
Click on a resource category listed below to see information related to that category.
Changing Your Name
MidPenn Legal Services provides information and a self-help packet for changing your name in Pennsylvania. The packet of forms is available in PDF format below.
How to File a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis
This video from Laurel Legal Services provides an explanation of what In Forma Pauperis is (a request to file legal papers without having to pay the filing fee because you cannot afford to pay the fees) and line-by-line instructions on completing a petition to request permission to proceed without paying filing fees.
Trans Youth Handbook
The Trans Youth Handbook serves as a comprehensive legal resource guide that covers the rights of trans youth across a wide spectrum of situations, including identity documents, school, health care, non-affirming care environments, and work.
How to File a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis
This video from Laurel Legal Services provides an explanation of what In Forma Pauperis is (a request to file legal papers without having to pay the filing fee because you cannot afford to pay the fees) and line-by-line instructions on completing a petition to request permission to proceed without paying filing fees.
Changing Your Name
MidPenn Legal Services provides information and a self-help packet for changing your name in Pennsylvania. The packet of forms is available in PDF format below.
Name Change in PA for Adults
Information from Northwestern Legal Services providing an overview of the procedure in changing an adult's name in Pennsylvania.
How to File a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis
This video from Laurel Legal Services provides an explanation of what In Forma Pauperis is (a request to file legal papers without having to pay the filing fee because you cannot afford to pay the fees) and line-by-line instructions on completing a petition to request permission to proceed without paying filing fees.
Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis
Costs to record, or “file” documents such as the complaint, vary from the type of document, or pleading, to the county in which you begin your case. Some court filing costs may be in the hundreds of dollars. If you cannot afford to pay these fees to the court, you will need to complete this form, In Forma Pauperis, a Latin term, referring to someone who cannot pay.
Trans Youth Handbook
The Trans Youth Handbook serves as a comprehensive legal resource guide that covers the rights of trans youth across a wide spectrum of situations, including identity documents, school, health care, non-affirming care environments, and work.