Adult Legal Name Change in Houston, TX / Harris County

If anyone has changed their name in the past year or two in Harris County – please advise, as any feedback will be helpful. For instance, did you efile or file in person – does anyone happen to know if it best to efile over filing in-person? Do you know the specific office/phone number that actually receives the Petitions for Name Changes?

The process and the documents (from TX Law Library) are seemingly simple & straightforward – but, they're not – at least, not for me.

I made an account with Harris County District Clerk's website – to search name change cases for direction, but to no avail.

I have attempted calling five different numbers listed on the HCDC's website, thinking I would be transferred eventually to correct person/office. This did not happen. I was transferred many times, scoffed at & questioned as to who told me to call that office for questions, to being told to watch a powerpoint presentation – which I did, & it was absolutely a waste of time & not helpful whatsoever. I was also told by one person if I efile, to be certain I file to Civil. Yet, another person told me that Civil is incorrect – it must be submitted to Family Court.

Unfortunately, due to health issues since 2023 & increasing prescription costs, finances have been an issue for me. I am unable to afford an attorney & I have been saving to be able to file for the name change.

Hopefully, this post is allowed & if there is a suggestion to post elsewhere – please let me know.

Thank you.