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Who can witness a deed poll?
quick answer:
To witness a deed poll, someone must be 18 or over, not related to you, not living at your address, and mentally capable of understanding what they’re witnessing. They don’t need to be a British citizen or UK resident, and there’s no professional requirement — a friend, neighbour, or colleague can witness it, as long as they’re present when you sign.
How To Witness A Deed Poll
Can you Witness a Deed Poll?
A deed poll also known as a change of name deed, is a legal document that proves your change of name in writing by way of a deed.
The witness to the deed in this case plays a crucial role in validating the process. The witness must be:
- Over 18 years of age.
- Not related to the person changing their name.
- Able to understand the nature and purpose of the document they are witnessing.
- The witness could be a friend, neighbour, or colleague. They must be able to confirm the identity of the person changing their name and their willingness to undertake the name change.
Who Can Witness a Child Deed Poll?
When it comes to changing a child’s name, the process is slightly different. Both parents usually need to consent to the name change, and the witness has a similar role in validating the process.
The same witness rules apply as for an adult deed poll (18+, unrelated, not living at the same address) — this is separate from the requirement that both parents or guardians usually need to consent to a child’s name change.”
Responsibilities of the Witness:
The witness’s primary responsibility is to confirm the identity of the person changing their name and their consent to the change. They do this by signing the deed poll or child change of name deed. By signing, they attest that they have witnessed the person’s declaration to abandon their old name and use their new name in all circumstances.
Jurisdiction : This article applies to Engand and Wales.
FAQ’s
- Can my partner or family member witness my deed poll? (No — they must be independent of you)
- Does my witness need to show ID? No, they do not need to show ID.
- Can a witness be under 18? No, a witness must be over 18
- Can the same person witness a child’s deed poll as well as their parent’s? Yes, they can.
- What happens if my deed poll is witnessed incorrectly? Your deed poll will not be legally valid.
You can apply online today and receive your deed poll documents within 1-2 working days. From just £15.99 we provide a low cost, but high quality deed poll service.
Our Deed Poll Services
Adult Deed Poll Service
Change your legal adult name in weeks with our quick and simple adult deed poll service.
Child Deed Poll Service
Change your childs name in weeks with our quick and simple child deed poll service.
Replacement Deed Poll
Replace your misplaced deed poll today, apply online and receive within 1-5 working days.
Free 1st Class Delivery
Once you have placed your order it will be sent by 1st class post.
Change my name?
Use our quick and easy deed poll services to change your name.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sort of name can you choose?
You are legally entitled to change your name to anything you desire providing that you are not trying to defraud or deceive anyone. Call us for more information if you are unsure.
Is there an official deed poll office in the UK?
This is a common misconception. There is no government department or entity that provides deed polls. All the providers of deed poll documents in the UK, are either lawyers or private providers like ourselves.
How long will it take to change my name?
You will receive your deed poll and copies within 24 hours (except weekends and bank holidays).
How much does a deed poll cost?
Our deed polls are £15.99 including vat, there is a drop down box on the order page for you to choose the amount of certified copies you require.
What other costs will there be to change my name?
The authorities where you change your name such as the Passport Office and DVLA will require you to submit your deed with an official application form and fees may be charged for doing so.
Do I really need a deed poll?
There are times when a deed poll is not needed to change your name. We have listed the most usual types of situations for you.
