LegalDIY

Free legal advice on how to do it yourself to change your name by Deed Poll, write a will or apply for probate or a divorce in Ireland

About

In Ireland, the fees charged by solicitors are regulated but there is no fixed cap on prices. Consumers are adopting a do-it-yourself approach when it comes to certain legal processes. On this site we review what options are available for applying to change your name by deed poll, make a will, process a divorce and apply for probate for a deceased relative.
Do note it is wise when engaging in any complex legal matter to seek legal advice.

DEED POLLS

What is a Deed Poll? A deed poll is a formal written declaration by a person that they are abandoning their old name and adopting a new one. It is made by one person without needing approval from a court (in most cases).

What Can You Use a Deed Poll For in Ireland?

1. Name Change (most common use)
A deed poll is commonly used to:

  • Change your first name, middle name, or surname
  • Drop or add a name
  • Change the spelling of your name
You might do this:
  • For Personal Preference
  • Marriage or divorce (if not using a marriage certificate)
  • Gender transition
  • Cultural or religious reasons
In Ireland, you can draft a deed poll yourself – you can obtain FREE templates from Courts Service OR hire a Solicitor to draw up the Deed Poll for you and witness the signing of the deed.

The national courts service has a detailed step by step guide and templates for deed polls at their website at / services.courts.ie/taking-action/deedpoll

You also can apply ONLINE at www.deedpollonline.ie to have your deed poll drawn up. Their legal team draw up by your legal deed poll for a fee and post to you on legal deed paper to be signed. The site also provides valuable advice about changing your ID after the deed is obtained.

Is It Legally Binding?

Yes, once properly executed, a deed poll is a legally recognised way to change your name in Ireland.
However:

• Some authorities (like the Passport Office) may have wait times before a name change appears on some ID or records
• Changing your name by deed poll does not hide your identity or affect your obligations under law.
• You can register your Deed Poll at the High Court office. There is no legal obligation to do so but it does support your name change by the recording the change in a official public record.

2. Update Official Records

Once you execute a deed poll, you can use it to request updates to your:

Driver’s license

Bank accounts

Revenue/Tax records

Social welfare documents

Medical/Doctor/ Dental Records

Passport

Do You Need a Deed Poll to Change Your Name?

Not always:

  • If you are taking a married name, many organizations accept a marriage certificate instead.
  • For children, you may need court approval, especially if both parents do not agree.
Wills