Minnesota § 259.14 - POSTDISSOLUTION NAME CHANGE
Full text of Minnesota Minnesota Statutes § 259.14 — POSTDISSOLUTION NAME CHANGE, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 259.14. POSTDISSOLUTION NAME CHANGE
(a) Unless section 259.13 applies, a person who has resided in this state for at least six months and obtained the person's most recent final marriage dissolution from a district court may apply to the district court in the county where the person resides to change the person's name to the legal name on the person's birth certificate. A person applying for a name change must submit a certified copy of the certificate of dissolution issued pursuant to section 518.148 and a certified copy of the person's birth certificate. A person applying for a name change who obtained a divorce in a state other than Minnesota must submit a certified copy of the certificate of dissolution or a certified copy of an equivalent court order ending the marriage and a certified copy of the person's birth certificate.
(b) A court shall not require a person applying for a name change to pay filing fees for an application submitted pursuant to this section. Notwithstanding section 259.10, a court shall not require the person applying for a name change pursuant to this section to provide proof of the person's identity by two witnesses unless the proof of identity is necessary to determine whether the person has an intent to defraud or mislead the court.
(c) Upon meeting the requirements of this section, the court shall grant the application for a name change unless the court finds that: (1) the person has an intent to defraud or mislead the court; or (2) the name change is subject to section 259.13. The court shall notify the person applying for a name change that using a different surname without complying with section 259.13, if applicable, is a gross misdemeanor.
History:
NOTE: A transfer of a power or responsibility in this chapter to the Department of Children, Youth, and Families is effective upon notice of the commissioner of children, youth, and families to the commissioners of administration, management and budget, and other relevant departments along with the secretary of the senate, the chief clerk of the house of representatives, and the chairs and ranking minority members of the relevant legislative committees and divisions. Laws 2024, chapter 80, article 8, section 72, Laws 2023, chapter 70, article 12, section 30.
Official Publication of the State of Minnesota
Revisor of Statutes
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota § 259.14
What does Minnesota Statutes § 259.14 cover?
Section 259.14 ("POSTDISSOLUTION NAME CHANGE") is part of the Minnesota Statutes, the codified statutory law of Minnesota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Minnesota § 259.14?
A common citation format is "Minnesota Statutes § 259.14" (Minnesota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Minnesota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Minnesota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Minnesota attorney.
How does Minnesota § 259.14 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Minnesota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Minnesota.