Names, Naming, and the Law: The Implications of Governmental Form Design

Abstract

The design of governmental forms can result in restrictions on the ability of individuals to submit truthful personal naming choices, such as when a form field has character limitations or does not accept diacritics. In some instances, form design operationalizes government policy. But in other instances, form design can itself create law by limiting the ability to submit accurate names on the front end. Awareness of the legal implications of form design is critically important. A more inclusive and accurate approach toward the legal documentation of naming choices means that forms should adapt to people, not the other way around.

Keywords: naming, onomastics, form design, government forms, names