Q: I seek assistance with sorting out identity issues (problems with birth certificate, social security due to name change)
I am assisting a young man (23yr old) who will graduate from college but who cannot proceed with things like drivers license, employment, etc, due to a troubled childhood situation in which his name was changed numerous times. The birth certificate (issued in New York City) has questionable accuracy and is followed by a series of new identities through age 18. He has done a great job sorting out much of the mess, but has hit roadblocks that seem insurmountable. Is this an issue that can be addressed by legal assistance? If yes, what branch of law specialty? Is this type of work available pro bono? He is such a terrific kid and it would be wonderful to get him on a good path forward after all of his hard work to get to this point.
A: This would be best handled by a civil litigation attorney as it sounds like it involves several name changes or may require one now. You may be able to get free help from legal aid clinics but if not you can always reach out to attorneys directly and ask if they would help for free. Best wishes!
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