QUESTION
What do I do to change my son’s last name to my husband last name?
Asked on Jan 21st, 2013 on Child Custody - Arizona
More details to this question:
My child’s biological father has never been there and he did not sign the child birth certificate. My husband has been raising my child as a father since my child been 1 year old. Does my husband has to a adopt him? What is it that we have to do?
4 ANSWERS
Estate Planning Attorney serving Wilmington, DE
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Reger Rizzo & Darnall, LLP
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Must petition court for adoption and if granted you can have his name changed.
Answered on Jan 25th, 2013 at 5:36 PM
Divorce/Family Law Attorney serving Carlsbad, CA
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Anne B. Howard, A Professional Law Corporation
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File for a step parent adoption. Then you can change the name. You may be able to proceed under abandonment grounds.
Answered on Jan 25th, 2013 at 11:04 AM
Carolyn Roschelle Jones
You should file a Petition for A Step Parent adoption.
Answered on Jan 25th, 2013 at 11:04 AM
You have a couple of options. You may be able to file an action to change your son's name in civil court. Although the father never established his rights, he may still be entitled to notice of the proceedings (or he can simply consent to the name change). If you are interested in having your husband adopt your child, this can be done if the biological parent will consent to the adoption or if his parental rights are terminated by the juvenile court. I recommend you consult with an attorney to discuss these options.
Answered on Jan 25th, 2013 at 11:03 AM