Name and Surname Change Case (TMK article 27)

TMK Article 27 includes the provision that "Change of the name can only be requested from the judge based on justified reasons."

Examples of Just Cause

• The name creates ridiculous, strange, difficult to pronounce
• Confusion when someone else in the family has the same name
• Gender incompatibility
• Professional/moral reasons
• Different origin, different name used

Process

1. Case in the Civil Court of First Instance
2. Hearing with announcement (creditors and other relevant parties)
3. Judge's decision
4. Notification and registration to the civil registry office

Supreme Court 18th HD Approach

The 18th Supreme Court of Appeals accepts that the concept of "just cause" in name change cases should be interpreted broadly and that the person's subjective discomfort may be sufficient in some circumstances.

How Many Times Can It Be Changed?

There is no limit in the law, but the Supreme Court considers constant changes as "abuse". It is generally accepted that it can be changed 1 time.

Manage the process with a family/civil law lawyer.