At Limitless Law PLLC, we are committed to helping our clients navigate life’s important transitions and keeping our clients informed about legal changes that impact their rights and personal journeys. We’re excited to share an important update from Washington State that could make a meaningful difference for many individuals in our community.

Recently, Washington State took an important step to support the privacy and dignity of individuals undergoing a gender transition. A new law now makes it easier for those pursuing a name change based on their gender identity to have their name change records automatically sealed.

New Law Protects Privacy for Gender Identity Related Name Changes

Effective July 23, 2023, Washington enacted a new law that streamlines the process for sealing name change records for individuals seeking a name change based on a transition of gender identity. This change is a significant step forward for the privacy, dignity, and safety of transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse Washingtonians.

Under the new rules, individuals who petition for a name change to align with their gender identity can have their case records automatically sealed — meaning they are no longer public information. Previously, individuals had to request sealing separately and prove a compelling reason, which often required disclosing sensitive personal details in open court.

Now, Washington law recognizes that protecting someone's privacy during this personal transition should be the norm, not the exception. By removing the extra steps and the burden of proof, the process is faster, safer, and more affirming.

Why This Matters

For many transgender and nonbinary individuals, public access to name change records can expose them to discrimination, harassment, or even violence. Sealing these records ensures that sensitive information remains confidential and that individuals can live authentically without fear of being outed or targeted.

This change also reflects a broader movement toward affirming legal practices that recognize and support the rights and realities of gender-diverse individuals.

How We Can Help

If you or someone you love is considering a legal name change related to gender identity, or a legal change in gender designation, our team at Limitless Law PLLC is here to guide you through the process with compassion and expertise. We can help you understand your rights, prepare your petition documents, and ensure that your records are properly sealed under the new law.

At Limitless Law PLLC, we are proud to be a queer-owned law firm working hard for Washington State’s LGBTQ+ community. 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can support you. Call Limitless Law PLLC at 360-685-0145 or click here to learn more about working with our firm.

This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you have questions about your own legal rights and options, please contact the knowledgeable team at Limitless Law PLLC to schedule a strategy session with our attorney. Call 360-685-0145 or click here to learn more.