This article is accurate from my experience. Marriage and divorce are simple. Everything else has steps. The state has a vested interest in making sure you aren't dodging debts, criminal procesecution, etc. which is why these steps are there.

Note that the lien/judgement search must be done in EVERY county you have lived in. Probably also needs done anywhere that you have lived out of state. Depending on the county, one of the newspaper circulars may be required to be a legal journal. The prothonotary should have the form, but some counties may also have it available online. Also some counties (Philadelphia) want you to do your fingerprinting BEFORE submitting the petition. Bottom line, to do it right, ask the prothonotary what their court's civil procedure requires or follow what directions are published on that county court's website.

Edit: Also, in my experience, the petition will be heard before a judge, meaning you will appear in court for a hearing. Anyone who objects may be present to voice their objections. I can't imagine any objections beyond those holding a debt similar would be considered. If your father, Joe Schmoe Jr. doesn't want you to change your name away from Joe Schmoe III for reasons of heritage or family lines, a judge isn't likely to force you to live with the name on those grounds.