A family deed poll is a legal document used in the UK to change the surname of a family unit, which typically includes parents and their children. This process allows the entire family to adopt a new surname simultaneously, ensuring consistency across all family members. The deed poll serves as evidence of the name change, which can then be used to update official records and documents. To execute a family deed poll, all individuals involved must consent to the change. For children under 16, parental consent is required. If the parents are not in agreement, a court order may be necessary. The deed poll must include the full names of all family members, both old and new, along with the date of the name change.

·         Once signed, it must be witnessed by an independent individual who is not a family member and is over the age of 18.

·         The requirements for a family deed poll include ensuring that the new surname is not chosen with the intention to deceive or defraud.

·         It must also comply with guidelines on public decency and should not contain any punctuation marks or numbers.

·         Once the deed poll is executed, it is important to inform relevant institutions such as schools, banks, and government departments, to update their records accordingly.

While it is not a legal requirement to register a deed poll, doing so with the Royal Courts of Justice can provide added security and proof of the name change. Overall, a family deed poll is a straightforward process that facilitates a unified family identity under a new surname.