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VoteRiders

Support Trans Voters in obtaining a legal name change

Your work will remove barriers for transgender voters.

Posted January 23, 2023

Background & Context

Transgender voters often face challenges and discrimination when voting, particularly when the name on their ID does not match their gender identity and appearance. These voters need assistance navigating through the court process to get a court order reflecting their name change, after which VoteRiders will secure an amended birth certificate, an updated social security card and a state-issued ID.

Immediate Problem

Make sure the voter understands the process and has the information necessary to change their name. Work one-on-one with a voter to get an order legally changing their name.

Work & Deliverables

Assist a transgender voter in obtaining a legal name change. Provide an estimate of the cost (court filing fees, publication fees, etc.) so VoteRiders can determine if it can fund all of the costs or just a portion.

Project Plan

Preparation Phase

  • Discuss the project scope with VoteRiders' staff
  • Meet the voter (client) and establish a relationship
  • Collect the information necessary to obtain a legal name change
  • File the papers with the court
  • Do additional steps as required by state law (publication of name change, etc.)
  • Provide a copy of the court order to VoteRiders staff
  • VoteRiders' staff applies for amended birth certificate
  • Upon receipt of the amended BC, VoteRiders staff assists the voter in getting new SS card
  • With amended BC and SS, assist the voter in obtaining an amended state ID or DL

Collaboration Phase

  • Connecting voter to attorney, communicating status/updates

Wrap Up

  • In addition to above, ensure voter has a copy of all relevant documents

This project is now closed.

Visit the Project Directory to check out other projects that still need your help!

Additional Information

  • Time Commitment: 6-10 hours
  • Training Provided: Yes
  • Additional Training Details: VoteRiders' staff will coordinate and introduce the voter to the lawyer, explain what is needed to amend the voter's birth certificate, and handle the birth certificate amendment.
  • Site-Preference: On-Site
  • Open to Law Students: No
  • Bar License(s) required: Pennsylvania
  • Required Languages: None
  • Required Legal Expertise: Litigation
  • Deliverables Due: February 28, 2023
  • Mentoring Provided: No
  • Supervision Provided: Yes

Locations

  • Pittsburgh, PA
VoteRiders

VoteRiders is a non-partisan, non-profit organization founded in 2012 with a mission to ensure that all citizens are able to exercise their right to vote. VoteRiders informs and helps citizens to secure their voter ID as well as inspires and supports organizations, local volunteers, and communities to sustain voter ID education and assistance efforts.

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