When a minor files a petition for change of name the written consent of each known parent shall be filed. If the written consent of each known parent is not filed, a copy of the petition together with a notice stating the date of the hearing shall be served on each known parent not consenting not less than thirty days before the date of the hearing. The service shall be by registered or certified mail addressed to the last known address of the nonconsenting parent. Service shall be proved by the certificate of the clerk that he has mailed a copy of the petition and notice by registered or certified mail.
Rule 95.03.Petition for Change of a Minor's Name--Notice to or Consent of Parents.
Part III · Rule 95: Change of Name · Last amended January 1, 1981 · Last verified July 22, 2026
In one sentenceRule 95.03 requires a minor's name-change petition to include each known parent's written consent, or, if a parent will not consent, service by registered or certified mail at least thirty days before the hearing along with clerk-certified proof of that mailing.
Full Text of Rule 95.03
Amendment History
Adopted June 10, 1980, eff. Jan. 1, 1981.
Official Comment
This is new.
Plain-English Summary
Changing a minor's name affects both parents, so Rule 95.03 builds their participation into the process. When a minor files a petition for change of name, the written consent of each known parent must be filed with it.
If a known parent will not consent, the rule substitutes formal notice for consent. A copy of the petition, together with notice of the hearing date, must be served on that parent by registered or certified mail sent to the last known address, and this must happen at least thirty days before the hearing. To close the loop, service must be proved through the clerk's own certificate confirming that the petition and notice were mailed, giving the court a documented record that the nonconsenting parent had a real chance to weigh in before the hearing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a minor's name-change petition require parental consent?
Rule 95.03 requires the written consent of each known parent to be filed, where that consent can be obtained.
What happens if one parent will not consent to a minor's name change?
The petition and a notice of the hearing date must be served on that nonconsenting parent by registered or certified mail at least thirty days before the hearing.
How much advance notice must a nonconsenting parent receive?
At least thirty days before the date of the hearing.
How is notice delivered to a nonconsenting parent?
By registered or certified mail addressed to that parent's last known address.
How does the court confirm that notice was properly given?
Service is proved by the clerk's certificate stating that a copy of the petition and notice were mailed by registered or certified mail.
Source & verification. Rule text and amendment history are
reproduced verbatim from the Missouri State & Federal Court Rules, adopted by the
Supreme Court of Missouri. Last verified July 22, 2026. ·
Official source
Also known as: minor name change Missourichild name change consentparental notice name changenonconsenting parent name change notice