Each participant will be assigned a 30-minute appointment slot with a volunteer attorney who will assist with the name change petition process. This can include answering questions, offering advice, and helping prepare paperwork. An attorney might also represent their assigned client (or clients) on their petition hearing date.
This consultation is free for all participants. However, clinic participants will be responsible for paying for associated costs for the name change petition, such as fingerprinting services, and other reduced court fees.
The Montgomery Bar Association (MBA) and Montgomery County Prothonotary's Office are co-organizing and running the clinic, and are proud to offer it to Montgomery County residents. The name change process can be intimidating, particularly if a person has little to no experience with civil court. The Virtual Pro Bono Name Change Clinic provides guidance for the petition paperwork and support for the individual with pro bono representation on the day of the hearing. This program aligns with the Prothonotary's Office and Montgomery Bar Association's goals to improve transparency and accessibility to the court system.
"My office continues to assist those that have historically been marginalized; helping those in our community who need help the most is integral to our mission. We are so happy and proud to host our third Name Change Clinic," says Prothonotary Noah Marlier.
"The Montgomery Bar Association is delighted to again host our annual name change clinic with the Montgomery County Prothonotary’s Office," says MBA Executive Director Denise Vicario. "It is a privilege to serve Montgomery County, and the Name Change Clinic provides a wonderful service to our community. Name change hearing day has become one of the highlights of our calendar!”
Registration is available here.
About the Montgomery Bar Association
Established in 1885 to professionalize the county’s practice of law, the Montgomery Bar Association (MBA) is one of our nation’s oldest and most respected bar associations, representing over 2,100 legal professionals in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.
About the Montgomery County Prothonotary
The Prothonotary is the elected civil clerk of the Court of Common Pleas and is responsible for recording all civil procedures before the court. This official signs and seals all writs and processes numerous other documents – including name change petitions – of the Court of Common Pleas.
