Name changes

[SarahNicole]

Just curious if anybody knows in general how this works? I know it's different between countries and jurisdictions, but there's one thing I'm curious about...

Do they usually keep a record of your old name? I mean, do they specifically have on file somewhere that you USED to be known by another name? I know there are plenty of documents out there with old information on it, but I was wondering if somebody wanted to (like you often see in the movies and on tv), could they do a background search on you to find out what your old identity was? I tend to be overly paranoid for no good reason, and it's just something I worry about.

And gender markers for that matter... I know some places let you change your birth certificate, while others do not. For those that do let you, do they have on record somewhere that you used to be another gender?

[Jicragg]

Since you're in Canada... you've got it good. Be happy!

Now, as for changing your name, I don't know how that works up there but as for changing your gender: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Changing_l ... _in_Canada

Okay, did a search for Canada name changes - search it by your province. It appears they each have different systems for getting it done. I've found an explanation for all provinces so... it's basically: apply, pay, hooray! Etc.

Best regards

[confuzzled1982]

I know in MI, Name Changes are public record, and are published. Normally all that is published is the petitioner's name, the person's old name, and new name, and the date of the hearing. What is kept on file (public record) is the petition for name change, which includes the reason the name change was requested, the original name, and the requested new name. Also, an order indicating if the name change was granted or denied. This order can also change the name on the birth certificate if the judge grants that. If you are 22 or over when the name change is filed, there will also be the results of a criminal background check. These are held by the circuit court (generally a county-wide court, though, there are still a couple circuits that cover multiple counties)

[Doc]

It's a matter of public record, yeah.

As for the BG check, I think it depends on who does it. Some of the jobs I've applied for have asked for any past names I've had, so they can check my records. But I am sure that the FBI or state law enforcement background checks would turn up my old name without me telling anybody.

I am somewhat creeped out by the job applications demanding my old name, since it makes me vulnerable to discrimination.