Deed Poll - Legal Name Change
0844 844 9071
Lines Open Mon- Fri 11am - 3pm
I Have A Criminal Record. Can I still Change My Name by Deed Poll?
In almost all cased yes you can. However there depending on your circumstances there may be restrictions on you changing your name.
The most important thing to remember is that even if you do change your name by deed poll, your criminal record will remain.
When you apply for a job, there is usually a section that will ask you if you have a criminal record. This is subject to the rehabilitation of offenders act 1974. If your conviction is "spent" then you can tick no to the question.
If your conviction is not spent then you must tick YES to the question. Even if you have changed your name by deed poll.
If you are asked for a disclosure, you will have to reveal your old name. Not doing so could be a criminal offence and carries a prison sentence.
People who's convictions are "spent but are still required to report to a police station to declare a change of circumstances must inform the police that you have changed your name by deed poll"
This situation would usually apply to people with a probation order, on Licence or people subject the the sexual offences act 2003 where you are required to report your change to the police.
Our advice for people with a criminal record is to use your own judgment. If you were convicted of a crime that was minor and you are no longer in the "System" or being monitored then you will normally not have any problems changing your name.
People with more serious convictions and those who are subject to certain orders should speak to a probation officer or take legal advice before you apply for a deed poll.
If you have any further question or concerns please contact us
2007 Deed Poll Legal
