All applications for change of names must be made to the district court of the county where the person whose name is proposed to be changed resides, by petition signed by the person and, if the person is under 18 years of age, by one of the person's parents, if living, or if both are dead, then by the person's guardian, and if there is no guardian, then by some near relative or friend. The petition must specify the place of birth and residence of the person, the person's present name, the name proposed, and the reason for the change of name and must, if neither parent of the person is living, name as far as known to the petitioner the near relatives of the person and their place of residence.
§ 27-31-101, MCA