Law firm offers free name-change service
Law firm MSB Solicitors is offering a new free name-change service to trans, non-binary and intersex people at its offices in Liverpool, Widnes and Manchester
Liverpool law firm MSB Solicitors is teaming up with Cheshire and Merseyside Adult Gender Identity Collaborative (CMAGIC) to offer a free name-changing service to trans, non-binary and intersex people.
Offered at the firm’s offices in Liverpool, Widnes and Manchester the “game-changing” service is being made available to people in Merseyside, Cheshire and Greater Manchester in what is often the first step in their social transition.
Many trans, non-binary and intersex people permanently change their name on their official documents to one that matches their gender identity. Although the process is free, individuals often require help to complete the forms and turn to online outfits that charge high prices to complete the forms.
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In many cases the documents are not accepted, meaning both the name change cannot be progressed and people lose the money they have spent. The new service from MSB and CMAGIC will be available to people aged over 18. To complete the name change, individuals will need to provide:
- Passport
- Proof of address (driving licence or a utility bill)
- One month’s bank statement(s)
The service will be offered free of charge on the first Wednesday of every month. Those wishing to use the service will need to book an appointment in advance.
Emma Carey, managing partner at MSB, said: “I’m a firm believer that people should be able to be whoever they want to be, and that any potential barriers to them achieving that should be removed, however possible.
“It’s so important that people are able to access the advice and support they need to help them on their journeys, and we’re delighted to be working with CMAGIC to deliver this service.”
Next sessions will take place on June 1, July 6, August 3 and September 7. For more information or to book an appointment, call MSB Solicitors on 0151 281 9040 and ask for Michael Boland or Poppy Hind.