Handbook for Changing Legal Identity Documents

A groundbreaking publication by Len Sandler (University of Iowa, Clinical Professor of Law) examines the additional obstacles transgender individuals are confronted with when changing legal documents and records. 

In todays era, identification is always mandated to open a bank account, apply for a credit card, borrow money, rent an apartment, obtain employment, and much more.  Any disparities between names, appearances or genders on different documents could prevent or delay an individual from taking care of business on a regular basis.  Specifically, transgender individuals may encounter unique legal concerns and difficulties navigating a system that operates according to outward appearances.  Changing gender on legal identity documents is a “collaborative effort. . . . In that sense, you might think of yourself as the driver on this journey and your doctor as a passenger who has traveled this road with other patients.” 

Professor Sandler’s handbook is an excellent guide for those living in the State of Iowa seeking to change their identity on legal documents, or those who want to gain a deeper understanding of the process.

See Leonard A. Sandler, The Iowa Guide to Changing Legal Identity Documents, University of Iowa Clinical Law Programs, April 24, 2014. 

Special thanks to Len Sandler (University of Iowa, Clinical Professor of Law) for bringing this article to my attention.