They do say that you should seek to refresh every 5 years or so, and what perfecting timing with MacIntyre Law (formally RFB Solicitors) now in its 6th year.

MacIntyre Law is a limited company and many of you reading this will also have a limited company. So, have you ever thought about rebranding or changing your company name but not sure what you need to do to legally change it?

Well here are the steps you need to take in order to change your name effectively.

Firstly there are preparatory steps to take because you cannot simply pick a name and o you go. Some other company may have already beaten you to it!

You need to do some research before setting your heart on a new name. Of course, you need to have a starting point, so think of a name you would like. Then you should conduct some searches to check that there are no other companies with that name. Firstly, search the index of company names at Companies House. You should then search the Trade Marks Register at the Intellectual Property O ce. Also have a look through Internet search engines and domain name registries to make sure that you can obtain the domain name to go with your new name.

Once you have conducted your searches and
are happy with the name you have chosen you need to take some steps to o cially change your company name. The usual procedure is by way of a special resolution (see below) but check your Articles of Association of the company to see if there is an alternative to the special resolution procedure to change the company name.

The procedure to change a company name by special resolution is as follows:

1. Prepare an agenda for a board meeting.

2. Hold a Board Meeting (unless you are using the written resolution procedure for board meetings). Directors will vote by simple majority to put special resolution on change of name to a general meeting of the company. Alternatively, Instead of calling a general meeting, the directors may send a written resolution changing the company’s name to the shareholders for signature.

3. Prepare minutes of the board meeting.

4. Draft a general meeting notice if holding a general meeting. A general meeting requires 14 clear days’ notice unless the requisite majority of members agree to short notice.

5. At the general meeting, the shareholders must pass the special resolution by 75% majority on a show of hands or poll. If the resolution is to be passed as a

written resolution, it must be approved by members representing not less than 75% of the total voting rights of eligible members.

6. Prepare general meeting minutes.

7. Lodge at Companies House within 15 days of the resolution being passed or made the following:

a. Copy of the resolution; b. Form NM01.

c. Companies House Change of Name Fee, which is currently £10.

What must you consider after the name has been changed? There are administrative matters you will need to consider and these will include changing the company stationery and websites, don’t forget this will include emails too.

If you are thinking of going through a change with your company and need help in doing so, just get in touch.

(This article should not be treated or relied upon as legal advice and you should seek legal assistance for your own individual circumstances)