IL SB1191

Exempts name change applications from publication requirements when the applicant has received a judgment for dissolution of marriage or declaration of invalidity of marriage and wishes to resume use of their former or maiden name.

Allows courts to waive publication requirements upon motion for individuals who file a written declaration that publishing notice of the name change would put them at risk of physical harm or discrimination, with supporting evidence required.

Permits courts to waive publication requirements for individuals 18 years or older who file a verified statement attesting they are protected under domestic violence laws, stalking statutes, civil no contact orders, or similar protections in other jurisdictions, with option to attach supporting court documents.

Allows petitioners to omit their address from court documents and designate an alternative service address if disclosure would endanger them or their household members or reveal a confidential domestic violence shelter location.

Requires courts to impound cases in which publication requirements have been waived and permits advocates (domestic abuse, rape crisis, and victim advocates) to assist petitioners with name change preparations under the domestic violence provisions.