A name change in Ireland is a matter of
choice! Though there’s no legal obligation as such, many in the name of marriage,
tradition, and culture, sign a declaration, stating they have abandoned their
old name. This declaration is officially termed as a deed poll. In return, people
receive documentary evidence, claiming that they have changed their names. This
legal document is hardcore evidence, acceptable in almost all administrative
procedures. Presenting it shall iron out almost every hitch that arises out of
name change.
However, certain rules mark a deed poll. Let’s have a look at them to better understand the concept.
- Execution
Implementing a deed poll is quite hassle-free! It requires you to declare that you have abandoned your old name and adopted a new one followed by a signing of the document in the presence of a witness. That’s not enough though. The same witness must swear an affidavit before a deed poll solicitor or a commissioner for oaths.
- Enrollment
Now comes enrollment of the deed. Though it’s not mandatory before the Central Office of the High Court, you might have to do so if you are applying for a driving license before the National Driving License Services (NDLS). The same holds for application for a gender recognition certificate.
What happens when you enroll your deed poll? Indirectly, you preserve a record of name change in the Central Office for future identification. You may or may not, opt for a certified copy. This decision is entirely yours!
The question, however, is how to enroll a deed poll? Well, you must attend in person, carry all your documentation and applications, and an acknowledgement that you shall be available for public inspection. Herewith, this shall publish on the Courts Service website. Unfortunately, stamp duty shall apply.
- Rules for non-EU nationals
What about non-EU nationals? If you represent one and aged 18 or above, you shall have every right to execute a deed poll. But, before that, you must achieve a name change license right from the INIS (Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service). Only then can you execute a deed poll in Ireland.
Postscript:
The steps might seem straightforward to some but intimidating to others. For the latter group of people, we recommend solicitors in Cork to draft a deed poll on their behalf and advise them on the significance of a name change. However, approach only a specialist or a deed poll solicitor to conduct the legal proceedings for an effective outcome.
