Legal Question in Family Law in Georgia

Changing a child's name

I married my wife in 1995. She had a 2yo child at the time. The biological father (BF) has only seen the child once, never paid any child support, and has no custody rights. The child has since been told about his BF, in which he has shown no concern or interest. On the child's birth certificate, the section for FATHER is blank and upon birth he was given my wife's maiden name. I have been the only father the child has known. Upon getting married, my wife and I started using my last name for his ever since he was 2yo. Now that he is 9yo, it is becoming more difficult (school registrations, passports, etc.) and we are interested in legally changing his last name. I am also interested in going through a complete adoption soon, still knowing that will not in of itself, change his last name. What legal steps must be started? Can we petition the courts directly or must we hire a lawyer to assist? I am in the military and stationed outside of Georgia. Must we return to GA or can we do this from a distance?


Asked on 11/16/01, 7:27 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Christopher Ballar Christopher A. Ballar PC

Re: Changing a child's name

My recomendation for you is to seek the advice of your local JAG attorneys. It is my understanding that they are available for your service. However, name changes and adoption are something you can do without an attorney, if you feel ambitious.

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Answered on 11/20/01, 1:33 pm


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