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Changing name by Deed poll - doctor as witness
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Hi,
I'm going through a process of changing my name by Deed poll. I've got the certificates back but I need an independent witness. I don't know many people so the only person who can really do it is my GP. The documents have to be signed in his presence so the only thing I can think of is to make an appointment to see him just to do that. But is that the 'right' way to go about it? Also I'd feel a bit guilty booking an appointment with him for something not remotely medical!
Any advice and/or similar experiences, please?
I'm going through a process of changing my name by Deed poll. I've got the certificates back but I need an independent witness. I don't know many people so the only person who can really do it is my GP. The documents have to be signed in his presence so the only thing I can think of is to make an appointment to see him just to do that. But is that the 'right' way to go about it? Also I'd feel a bit guilty booking an appointment with him for something not remotely medical!
Any advice and/or similar experiences, please?
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ETA as long as the person is over 18, knows you and is independent of you, it can be anyone.
http://www.deedpoll.org.uk/OtherFAQs.html
Thank you
Just trying to help.
I know you were, that's why I said thank you.
Why does it have to be your Doctor? It certainly doesn't say that in the link.
By the way, some doctors now refuse to sign passport application forms and similar, so your GP might not even be willing to sign it. You will need to ask the receptionist what the doctors policy is and, if he is willing to sign your form, how much he is going to charge you. If he is willing to sign it this work certainly won't be done during his consulting time. Whatever you do, don't make an appointment to see him and then produce a form for him to sign. If you do then I think you'll be out of his surgery pretty quickly.
The link says that anyone who knows you can sign the form if they're over 18 years old. Why don't you just ask someone you know?
Let's just say the reason I'm changing my name is for 'sensitive' reasons. It's not something I'd want to tell a friend at this stage. I know that might not make much sense but there you have it. So it has to be someone 'official', I did ask the Job Centre last week but regrettably they refused.
Right, OK then, I sort of understand.
You will need to speak to your doctor's receptionist and seek her advice.
You've lost me.
While a Deed Poll does exist, it's not necessary to change your name legally.
A properly worded Stat' Dec' will suffice.
Blimey, that looks complicated!
When I did mine it cost £35. That was in 2006 though.
Something very siimilar, yeah. I asked for three legal copies as well and altogether it was about £50.
Was it an on line company you down loaded docs' from?
If so are you absolutely sure that price includes 3 x extra copies?
And what, if anything, will a doctor's time cost you.
What I'm driving at is you can do a name change simply with out the need of a witness--as such and possibly cheaper if your above pricing is wrong.
I assume you understand the legal requirements required of you on documents such as passport/driving licence/DWP?
I do.
Sure, it's this one.
That's the same one I used years ago. All legitimate and above board. I used the document to change all my official things (passport, driving licence) without a problem.
Yes, it's a bit of a headache informing all those different people. But, needs must!
I found that not everyone insisted on seeing the deed poll, the official things did, and my bank account. Barclaycard were happy to take my word for it though!
Well that's good to know! Would be very monotonous if they ALL wanted the official docs.
Some will change it over the phone when you call to ask about it.
I found changing my name (and title) very empowering. I hope you find it a positive experience too