Name Changes

Helping You Align Your Legal Identity with Your True Self

Your name matters.

It reflects identity, history, and belonging.

Whether you are changing your name because of marriage, divorce, adoption, gender affirmation, or personal reasons, Nevada law provides a clear legal process to make it official.

At The Cooley Law Firm, we guide clients throughout Clark County and Nevada through name changes with efficiency, privacy, and care. Attorney Shelly Booth Cooley ensures every step is handled correctly so your documents match the life you live today.

Faceless Father and little boy walking in summer park. Adoption and people concept

Commons Reasons for a Legal Name Change

People seek name changes for many reasons, including:

  • Marriage or divorce

  • Adoption or step-parenting

  • Gender affirmation or transition

  • Reclaiming a maiden or family name

  • Correcting errors on records

  • Personal, cultural, or spiritual identity

No matter the reason, your request is handled with respect and confidentiality.

Name Changes for Children

A parent or legal guardian may request a name change for a child.

If both parents do not agree, the court considers factors such as:

  • The child’s best interest

  • Each parent’s relationship with the child

  • The reason for the name change

  • The effect on the child’s identity and family connections

We prepare these cases carefully to ensure the child’s interests are fully protected.

Gender-Affirming Name Changes

For transgender and nonbinary clients, a name change is often an important step toward legal and personal alignment.

Nevada courts handle these requests with privacy and respect, and publication is not required.

We also assist with gender marker changes so all documents are consistent and accurate.

Why Work with an Attorney

Name change petitions may appear simple, but mistakes can cause delays or inconsistencies across agencies.

We help ensure:

  • Accurate and complete filings

  • Publication waivers when appropriate

  • Proper certified copies for all updates

  • Coordination with adoption or gender marker orders

Compassionate Support for a Personal Process

A name change is more than paperwork.
It is a step toward living authentically and confidently.

Whether your reason is personal, familial, or affirming, you deserve a process handled with care and professionalism.

Ready to Move Forward?

Contact The Cooley Law Firm to schedule a confidential consultation with Shelly Booth Cooley, an experienced Nevada family law attorney, Certified Family Law Specialist, and Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and the International Academy of Family Lawyers.

We are here to help you complete your name change in Nevada with clarity, respect, and peace of mind.