Requires criminal background check for name change; prohibits persons convicted of violent crime or domestic violence offense from changing name.

This New Jersey bill requires courts to conduct a criminal background check for any name change application. Applicants must consent in writing, pay for the check, and provide fingerprints for verification against state and federal records. The bill prohibits name changes for individuals convicted of violent crimes (like assault or robbery) or domestic violence offenses (including stalking or harassment), unless the request is for religious reasons. Courts must also notify victims or their immediate family members if an applicant with such a conviction seeks a name change. The bill is pending and would not take effect until three months after enactment.