Petition for Name Change: The first step in the name change process is to file a Petition for Name Change with the circuit court in the county where you reside. This petition typically includes your current name, the name you wish to change to, the reason for the name change, and any other required information. You may also need to provide fingerprints for a criminal background check.

Publication of Notice: After filing the petition, you may be required to publish a notice of the name change in a local newspaper for a specified period of time. This is to notify the public of your intention to change your name and gives interested parties the opportunity to object to the name change.

Background Check: In some cases, the court may require a criminal background check as part of the name change process. This is to ensure that you are not changing your name for fraudulent or unlawful purposes.
Hearing: Depending on the county and whether there are any objections to the name change, you may be required to attend a hearing before a judge. At the hearing, you may need to provide evidence supporting your request for a name change.

Court Order: If the judge approves your name change petition, they will issue a court order officially changing your name. This court order serves as legal documentation of your new name.
Updating Records: Once you have obtained a court order for your name change, you will need to update your name on various legal documents and records, such as your driver's license, Social Security card, passport, bank accounts, and other important documents.

It's important to note that the name change process and requirements may vary slightly depending on the county in Florida where you reside. Additionally, certain individuals, such as minors or individuals with certain criminal convictions, may have additional requirements or restrictions when changing their name.
If you're considering a name change in Florida, it's a good idea to consult with an attorney who can guide you through the process and ensure that all necessary steps are followed correctly.