How Easy is It to Change Your Identity in the UK and What about Illicit Methods?
In the UK, changing your identity is a process that primarily involves legal procedures. However, there are also illicit methods that some may consider. This article aims to clarify both the legal and illegal aspects of identity change in the UK, addressing common misconceptions and providing factual information.
Legal Identity Change
Two primary options are available for legally changing your identity in the UK: unenrolled and enrolled procedures. The unenrolled option is simpler and more affordable, while the enrolled process is more formal and comprehensive.
The Unenrolled Path
The unenrolled option is the easiest and most cost-effective method. This approach involves using a simple set of words and securing signatures and witness statements. Here, individuals can copy a template, sign and witness it, and the process is complete. This method leaves a record but does not require a court application or publication.
The Enrolled Path
The enrolled method is more formal but also more secure. It involves a court application, several forms, an oath, and an advertisement in the London Gazette. This process also incurs court fees, advertising fees, and costs for solicitors or commissioners of oaths. Although more rigorous, this method provides a more robust legal foundation for the identity change. The enrolled option is preferred by some services because it is traceable and verifiable.
Jumping into Illicit Methods
While legally changing your identity is straightforward, there are concerns about the possibility of illegal methods. The question of changing your identity illegally usually revolves around the intent behind the change and the methods used. Here are some points to consider:
Tracing Your Identity
Legally, it is impossible to change your identity in a way that makes it completely untraceable. Both deed poll and other procedures inherently create a paper trail. Even if you were to use an illicit identity, there would still be a record of the change, potentially leading to issues with legal authorities and identity theft.
Witness Protection Programs
In the UK, there are witness protection programs, similar to those found in other countries. For instance, underaged individuals involved in crimes, like the case of Jamie Bulgur's killers, might receive new identities upon completion of their sentences. However, these new identities are closely monitored and not entirely untraceable.
Setting Up Fake Identities
Illegally setting up a complete fake identity was once possible, especially by adopting the identity of a deceased person. However, with advancements in technology and security measures, this method has become increasingly difficult. Setting up a fake identity often involves obtaining a fake passport, but modern border security is becoming more adept at detecting such forgeries.
Social Issues and Legal Obstacles
There are limitations to what can be done illegally. Changing your name to a potentially offensive slur or with the intent of committing fraud would be illegal. For instance, if someone changes their name to a fictional entity like the HM Tax Office, expecting people to send them money, this would be considered fraud and illegal.
It is worth noting that in the UK, your identity is ultimately what you claim it to be. However, attempting to use such a fake identity or performing actions that are deemed illegal will lead to legal consequences. The UK's legal system is equipped to handle such situations, making it challenging to fully hide or falsify your identity without leaving a trace.
Key Takeaways:
1. Legal identity change in the UK is straightforward and involves either unenrolled or enrolled procedures.
2. Illicit methods of changing identity, while they exist, are difficult and risky.
3. Legal systems in the UK are robust and can trace any changes made, even those done illegally.
For those looking to change their identity legally, it is important to understand the available options and the legal ramifications of such actions. Consulting legal professionals can also provide clarification and guidance during this process.