NC S369

Clarifies that a parent may apply for a minor child's name change without the other parent's consent if the other parent has abandoned the minor or has been convicted of child abuse, sex offenses, incest, or crimes of violence against the minor or a sibling.

Specifies that a minor age 16 or older may change their own name with consent from the custodial parent without the other parent's consent if that parent has abandoned them.

Requires criminal history record checks conducted within 90 days by the State Bureau of Investigation, Federal Bureau of Investigation, or approved Channeler for all name change applicants, except minors under age 16.

Clarifies that guardians appointed under Article 6 of Chapter 35A and guardians ad litem appointed under Rule 17 of the Rules of Civil Procedure may file name change applications for minors.

Becomes effective October 1, 2013, and applies to name change applications filed on or after that date.