An Act Eliminating The Probate Court Filing Fee For An Application For Change Of Name.
Impact
If enacted, HB05835 would amend section 45a-106a of the general statutes, leading to significant changes in existing laws surrounding name changes through the probate courts. Currently, individuals are required to pay a fee when submitting an application for a name change, which can be a hindrance, especially for disadvantaged or low-income individuals. Removing this fee is expected to enhance the accessibility of legal procedures related to personal identity and provide individuals with more control over their names without the deterrent of additional financial costs.
Summary
House Bill 05835 aims to eliminate the Probate Court filing fee for individuals seeking a change of name. The bill is introduced to alleviate the financial burden associated with the application process, allowing more individuals to change their names without the concern of additional costs. By removing this fee, the bill seeks to promote ease of access to legal name changes, thereby encouraging individuals to take steps toward personal identity adjustments without monetary barriers.
Contention
While the bill has clear intentions to benefit individuals seeking name changes, there may be concerns regarding the implications of removing filing fees. Some may argue that eliminating such fees could lead to an increase in frivolous name change applications, potentially straining court resources. Additionally, discussions may arise about how this change could affect the administrative processes within probate courts that typically handle these applications. Nonetheless, supporters advocate for the increased privacy and reduced financial barriers for individuals wishing to change their names, emphasizing the importance of personal identity without the interference of costs.