Legal Question in Family Law in Georgia

In Georgia, if I did not claim my child at birth because we could not afford the medical bills, can I claim her now and have her name changed to mine, without the state wanting back payments for assistance received? I have worked and cared for her and my fiance for 3 years at this time.


Asked on 2/04/10, 10:30 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Glen Ashman Ashman Law Office also dba Glen Ashman Attorney

With the mother's consent (and in some cases against her consent) you may be able to change the name. I don't know what you mean by "claim" her but you can legitimize a child in the courts. Regardless of what you do, any lioability you have to the state as to support remains.

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Answered on 2/09/10, 11:24 am
Paula McGill Attorney at Law

When a father is unmarried at the time of the birth of the child he has to legimitate the child. This is a simple procedure. However, you may want to wait until you marry the mother (assuming you intend to do so).

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Answered on 2/09/10, 1:42 pm


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