Legal Question in Family Law in Florida

My daughter has my last name & I have sole custody. We just moved to Florida from NY, her father agreed as long as I dropped support. They will still have visits if he pays for them & makes it happen, probably only summer & Christmas. I asked him two months ago if he would cover her medical, he said YES but I doubt he will. He is a drug addict & career criminal, last jail time was for impersonating a police officer in 2012 or 13. Never really been involved much except visits & court ordered support of $370/month which I no longer get. My fiance & I are planning to get married within the year, we have a 3yr old that has his last name already, we have been together 9yrs & he already has been provider for my oldest (not his). I also have health issues & would like to find out more about how adoption or legal responsibility in a medical way that can be given to new hubby, along with changing minor name. My daughter from previous relatiinship (not marriage) wants to change name as well. Thank you in advance for any Help.


Asked on 9/14/15, 8:14 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
William Wieland Bogin, Munns & Munns, P.A.

Once you get married, if the biological dad agrees, you can have your husband adopt your daughter and change her name. Biological dad must agree. If he does he will lose all legal rights to see her and will not be responsible for any further support for her money medical etc. You of course may let her visit him, but he can not see without your permission.

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Answered on 9/14/15, 8:29 am
John Smitten Carey and Leisure

You can do a step-parent adoption. Use an attorney.

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Answered on 9/14/15, 6:41 pm


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