Legal Question in Family Law in Arizona
Name change
I was married in 2004 in Maricopa County, Arizona. At that time, I decided to keep my last name and not change it to match my husband's last name. In 2006, we had a baby who shares my husband's last name. I now want to change my last name so we are seen as a 'family' even though we have been married for almost 4 years now.
Do I just need to full out the form for Name Change for an Adult? Does it matter that I have a minor child? My son's name is NOT changing, just mine. I'm a bit confused as the instructions for my form state not to use it if 'You have minor child'.
Please help me. Besides this form, what do I need to bring to file these papers in Court? Do I need my passport or marriage license?
Thank you for your help and guidance.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Name change
Thank you for your inquiry.
Even though you are not changing the child's name, you still need to follow the instructions regarding having a minor child. Your husband (the child's father) will need to acknowledge his consent to the name change (e.g. so that it can't be used as a way to take your child and hide from him). The Self-service center instructions explain exactly what documents you'll need to bring. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact us for a free initial consultation.