Retrospective Deed Poll Name Change

[picker]

My Sister in law is in the process of applying for a passport.She has had several problems ie old marriage certs and witness of photo etc but the latest problem, passport office want a deed poll of name change when she married her deceased husband she was named DREW but did not state the name Drew but used her original name Rawlings when she married Alan Wheatley also deceased. This was wrong but she was advised by her Mother.Now can she get a deed poll retrospectivly and if so, does she have to have a witness with her in the solicitors pressence.This will be difficult because all who would know her are family members and live 160 miles away.Also is is legal to have family to witness or can anyone be witness?THANKS

[Peter Pedant]

I think you had better take proper advice on this one.

It conflicts with the advice we were given - that the lady's name change was totally by custom and not governed by law. She could basically after marriage use what ever name she wanted - usual rules and then stick by it and none of this - oh that isnt me bit (*)

Same for the GMC and medicine - Dr Spooky so long as you dont say - oh that is not me, that is Mrs Mopp down the road.

(*) same rules for contract isnt it? you can buy in the name of Mrs Mopp so long as you come up with the moolah, and admit - Mrs Mopp yes that is me.