HOW TO CHANGE YOUR LEGAL NAME in TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO.

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​If you would like to officially change your legal name to a new name you will have to do what is called a Deed Poll.

A Deed Poll is simply a legal document that proves a change of name and contains the following three declarations:
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• I am abandoning my previous name.
• I will use my new name at all times.
• I require all persons to address me by my new name only.

You can change any part, add or remove names and hyphens, or change spelling. Your new name must contain both a forename and a surname and be pronounceable. The Deed Poll is prepared by an Attorney at Law. You would need your birth certificate and a proof of address.

​Once prepared, you will review the document and once satisfied with it, you will sign it. Two witnesses, who aren’t related to you must also sign your deed poll and give their name, occupations and addresses. Then the Deed Poll will have to be registered at the Ministry of the Attorney General and Legal Affairs. The processing time is usually approximately 2-3 months.

Your certificates will remain valid but everywhere you present them you will have to also present a certified copy of the Deed Poll. 

Please note that you do not need a Deed poll to take your spouse’s surname when you are married, you will simply present the marriage certificate when applying for new identification and documents. 

Important Notice: This post does not constitute or provide legal advice. Always consult a suitably qualified lawyer on any legal problem or issue.