Naming a baby takes a great deal of time and there’s a lot to consider along the way. Depending on where you live there may also be some legal requirements that you will have to meet when naming your baby. What does legal name mean?
What Does Full Legal Name Mean
Your full legal name is the name that appears on all of your official documents. For most people, this will be the name that is on your original birth certificate. But this can change for a variety of reasons such as:
- Adoption
- Gender identity
- Marriage
- Divorce
Your full legal name should include your first name, middle name, as well as your surname. This will be the name that is on things like your passport and driving license.
Full Name Vs Full Legal Name
There is no clear difference between your full name and your full legal name as these should be exactly the same. If you are asked to fill out forms then they should include your first name, middle name, and surname – this is your full legal name.
Do You Legally Have To Have A Last Name?
There is no clear law with regard to whether a last name or surname is compulsory. And there are people who are known by a single moniker. In fact, there are many cultures in the world where only having a single name is the norm.
But in the West, the use of a single moniker although not illegal can cause people huge issues when filling out official documentation. Most if not all digital forms have a space for first name and surname, and without all the fields required filled in you will find yourself unable to proceed with the documentation.
Does Full Legal Name Include Middle Name?
Your full legal name should include all of your names as shown o your birth certificate. So this would include first name, middle name, and last name. But it shouldn’t include any nicknames that you use or shortened versions of your name. For example, if your name is William you can not use Bill as your legal name. But it can of course be used as your name in everyday life.
What’s in a Legal Name?
Your legal name is the name that you use for all official documentation. It will the full name that is on documents such as your passport, birth certificate, and driving licence.
Your legal name may not necessarily be the name that you are known by or use day to day. And it is possible that the name on your birth certificate is not your current legal name. The reason for changes can be things such as marriage, divorce, or gender identity.