VoteRiders
Birth certificate and legal name change assistance for voters
Break down barriers and ensure voters can get ID to vote.
Posted October 2, 2026
Background & Context
The increasingly strict laws regarding getting a state ID or driver's license create barriers for many US citizens, which in turn makes it harder for them to obtain an ID accepted for voting. The attorneys on this project will work one-on-one with each voter to help them get their birth certificate or in some cases get a legal name change to align their documents and enable them to get an accepted ID for voting. Although there is particular urgency due to the upcoming November election, this work is needed year round and in non-federal election years.
Immediate Problem
Our most urgent need right now is in Georgia to assist with legal name change, but we assist voters who live in any one of the 38 states that currently require an ID to vote. Depending on the lawyer/law firm's policies, the lawyer may not need to live in the state where the voter is living.
Work & Deliverables
1) Represent a voter who lacks ID to order their own birth certificate, which is needed to get ID to vote.
2) Represent a voter who needs a legal name change to enable them to get an ID that will allow them to vote without being challenged at the polls.
Preparation Phase
- Clear conflicts
- Conduct initial consultation with voter
Collaboration Phase
- Order birth certificate online or prepare the petition for legal name change
Wrap Up
- Follow-up to make sure voter received the birth certificate or court order for legal name change
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.
Volunteer for this project!
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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.