NORRISTOWN — Registration for the third semi-annual Virtual Pro Bono Name Change Clinic is open for Montgomery County residents age 18 and older, including transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming communities.
The clinic is via Zoom on Wednesday, April 24, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Interested residents can sign up online until April 10.
Each participant will be assigned a 30-minute appointment slot with a volunteer attorney who will assist them with the name change petition process. This can include answering questions, offering advice, and helping prepare paperwork. An attorney might also represent their assigned 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 and Montgomery County Prothonotary’s Office are co-organizing and running the clinic for Montco 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,” Prothonotary Noah Marlier said.
“The Montgomery Bar Association is delighted to again host our annual name change clinic with the Montgomery County Prothonotary’s Office,” said 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.”
