Adding a Middle Name in Texas: Is it Worth the Middleman?
So, you're thinking about adding a middle name. Maybe you want to honor a loved one, or perhaps you just think it sounds cooler. Whatever your reason, you're probably wondering, "How much is this middle name adventure going to cost me?" Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to dive into the wonderful world of Texas name changes.
The Price is Right (or Wrong)
Let's get down to brass tacks. How much will it set you back to slap a new name in the middle of your old one? Well, the short answer is: it depends. It depends on the county you live in, it depends on whether you can convince a judge you're not up to no good, and it depends on whether you're willing to haggle with the court clerk.
On average, you can expect to shell out anywhere from $200 to $350 in filing fees. But remember, this is Texas. We're talking about a state where everything's bigger, including the price of everything. So don't be surprised if you end up paying a little more.
Hidden Costs: More Than Just Money
Now, let's talk about the real costs. There's the time and effort it takes to fill out all the paperwork. You'll need to get your fingerprints done, which is like a fancy way of saying "we're checking to see if you're a criminal." And then there's the mental anguish of waiting for the court to decide if you're worthy of a new middle name.
Is It Worth It?
Honestly, only you can answer that question. If you're desperate to add a touch of glamour to your life, or if you're trying to escape your past, then maybe it's worth it. But if you're just looking for a quick ego boost, you might want to reconsider. After all, you can always just start introducing yourself with a new middle name. Nobody's going to stop you.
How to Navigate the Middle Name Maze
- How to choose the perfect middle name: Close your eyes, think of a random word, and add "son" or "daughter" to the end. Voila! You're welcome.
- How to fill out the paperwork: Hire a lawyer. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, try to decipher the government's hieroglyphics on your own.
- How to convince a judge you're not a criminal: Dress well, speak slowly, and avoid mentioning any suspicious activities.
- How to update your ID: This is a whole other can of worms. Be prepared for a bureaucratic nightmare.
- How to deal with people who forget your new name: Just keep repeating it until they get it right. Or, give them a nickname.
Remember, adding a middle name is a big decision. Weigh the pros and cons carefully. And if you do decide to go for it, good luck! May the odds be ever in your favor.