Is it illegal to find someone who's changed their name?

Question

I know this is a silly question.. I know it can be extremely difficult to find someone who's changed their name. But after having found a relative of theirs, can you message them and ask for information? Would they get in any trouble if they shared something?

Answer 1

It is not illegal to locate someone who has changed their name. However, if a third party chooses to give information about a relative without their consent, this could lead to tension in the relationship. Best you can do is reach out to the relative and ask that they contact the individual who has changed his/her name, and get their permission to pass along information and/or if it would be acceptable for you to contact them directly.

Answer 2

Perhaps this person doesn't want to be found for whatever reason. Consider all possibilities before contacting this person.

Answer 3

Unless they changed their name upon entering the witness protection program, it isn't even difficult. The name change is PUBLIC RECORD.

Answer 4

But their finger prints don't change

Answer 5

Tracking someone down is generally not against the law- there are even professionals who do this for a fee. People often want to track down old friends, track people who owe them a debt, or whatever.



However, if it's a situation where stalking or harassment enter the equation, then it isn't legal and trying to contact them can be used against you. Generally, simply tracking someone down is not enough to prove this unless something else is going on or there is an order not to contact them, or some other circumstances apply.



So for instance, if you were trying to get back in touch with an old school friend who'd moved away and you'd sort of lost touch, and you ran into a relative of his, no drama. If you were trying to locate an ex who'd taken out a restraining order against you after you put her in hospital, then it's a completely different story.



Also, if someone is in witness protection or something to that effect, trying to track them down to intimidate them or something like that will land you in a world of trouble.

Answer 6

Yes, it's legal because all they did was change their name. Maybe since they changed their name they don't want to be found, but that doesn't make it illegal

Answer 7

Perfectly legal (not being sarcastic)