I was wanting to know, when your put on the stand in court and you have to state your name, do you have to give your legal birth name? For example if my name was Paul Joseph Smith would I be required to state that name or could I use Paul Joe Smith?

They are asking for your legal name - and that's what you give them.

You will be swearing to the truth of your statements so if your middle name isn't "Joe" I would swear that it is.

... if my name was Paul Joseph Smith ...

Normally works like this:


"Q: Please state your name.

A: Paul Smith"
Why do you ask?