I got an e-mail today from the lawyer who helped me with my name change last year. It had some really exciting news in it. It seems the Maryland General Assembly passed a law that goes into effect October first that changes the way you get an updated birth certificate. First off, surgery is no longer a requirement. And you don't need a court order in most situations. All you need is a sworn statement from your medical provider or therapist stating that you have undergone appropriate steps toward changing your gender. You just take that to the bureau of vital statistics and fill out the appropriate forms there. Then they will issue a NEW birth certificate, not an amended one. The original will be placed in a sealed file that can't be opened without a court order. You can get a copy of the original to keep for your own records. And if you have previously gotten an amended certificate, you can also get a brand spanking new one with no mention of the previous info.
How cool is that? Since my doctor and this lawyer have offices in the same building and I'm due to see my doctor in a couple of weeks, I plan to stop in the lawyer's office and get the ball rolling. Can't wait.
Originally Posted by I Am Paula
