Why is it called a Deed Poll?

A Deed is a written legal agreement that has been signed and delivered (shown) to all concerned parties.

Poll is an old English term describing a legal document with its edges cut (polled) straight. This was to distinguish it from a deed that needed to be signed by more than one person (a polled deed) and a deed signed by more than one person (which was called an Indenture) - a document that had its edges indented/serrated. This was usually done by tearing the document down the middle with one half given to each party. (Because the tear had to match, it was a way of guarding against forgery.)

Deed Polls in the UK have been used to change names for over 150 years with documents dating back to 1851 which can be seen at the National Archives in Kew, Surrey.

This page was last checked today by Miranda O'Hara, Senior Deed Poll Officer.

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  • Monday: Is a Deed Poll registered anywhere? - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 18:15
  • Monday: If you're an undischarged bankrupt you are free to change your name by Deed Poll - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 18:11
  • Monday: British & Commonwealth Citizens, Foreign Nationals, Asylum Seekers & Refugees - can apply for a Deed Poll - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 18:08
  • Monday: This article explains how to change a child's name without the consent of an absent father - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 18:04
  • Monday: If you're calling from a mobile (for help with changing your name) - it's cheaper for you to call 0333 577 4321. @ 20/05/2013 18:01
  • Monday: Here's a list of the most commonly asked questions about changing a name by Deed Poll - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 17:59
  • Monday: This article explains how to obtain a copy of a lost Deed Poll - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 17:56
  • Monday: You can use a Deed Poll to legally revert to your maiden name BEFORE or AFTER divorce Click Here @ 20/05/2013 17:52
  • Monday: A Deed of Change of Name is more commonly referred to as Deed Poll - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 17:49
  • Monday: Here's a list of organisations that you should consider notifying upon changing your name by Deed Poll - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 17:47
  • Monday: Unless you're getting married - a Deed Poll will be required when changing your name in the UK - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 17:45
  • Monday: If you're changing your child's name, you may need consent from all persons with 'Parental Responsibility' - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 17:43
  • Monday: This article explains how to legally change your child's name - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 17:40
  • Monday: You must be at least 16 years of age to legally change your own name - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 17:38
  • Monday: You can legally change any part or all of your legal name using a Deed Poll - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 17:35
  • Monday: A Deed Poll works in the same way as a marriage certificate for married women - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 17:31
  • Monday: What is the purpose of a Deed Poll? - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 17:29
  • Monday: A 'Deed' is a legal agreement - 'Poll' is an old English term for a document with its edges cut straight - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 17:26
  • Monday: A Deed Poll has a red seal and is printed on security watermarked paper - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 17:23
  • Monday: This article explains why a Deed Poll is usually required when changing your name - Click Here @ 20/05/2013 17:20
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