how is it done, i dont want to do it, i was just curious. must there be a specific reason or can anyone do it?
The UK Deed Poll Service’s own website should answer your questions.
For those who don’t want to read all the stuff on that site, here’s a selection of quotes:
*We will not accept an order for a Deed Poll for a name that:
[ul][li]is impossible to pronounce, [/li][li]includes numbers or symbols, [/li][li]includes punctuation marks - although you can have a hyphen to link forenames or surnames (for example, if you want a double barrelled surname) and an apostrophe in the case of surnames like O’Brien. [/li][li]we consider vulgar, offensive or unsuitable, [/li][li]may result in others believing you have a conferred or inherited honour, title or rank, for example, a change of first name to Sir, Lord, Lady, Prince, Princess, Baron, Baroness, Count, Countess, General, Colonel etc., [/li][li]does not include at least one forename and one surname. [/li][/ul]Other than the above restrictions, you can change your forenames, surname (or both), add names, remove names or rearrange your existing names. You can change your name at any time and for any reason provided it is not for deceptive or fraudulent purposes or for the avoidance of an obligation.
Fun names
Some people like the idea of having what we call a fun name. We have issued Deed Polls for fun names such as Hong Kong Phooey, Father Christmas, Ed Kase, Ting A Ling, Save Barnsley FC and James Bond. The most popular name changes of this type are where football team names or player names are included as middle names.*
Here’s a rundown of UK law on the matter:
In the UK anyone aged 16 years or over can change their name simply by adopting a new name. This is called change of name by usage. If however you need to change official records and documents, like your passport, bank account, property deeds etc. you will need to change your name by Deed Poll. On completing and signing a Deed Poll in the presence of a witness, you will be entitled to insist that all identification and documentation is transferred into your new name. The only documents that cannot be changed are birth, marriage and decree absolute certificates. You must however be 18 years or older to make a Deed Poll, and it must not be made for the purpose of fraud.