Legal Question in Family Law in Georgia

Legal name change for minors

I am looking for information regarding a name change for a minor child. I have a 14 and 12 year old who want to change their last names to my married last name. they have a father who is totally uninvolved and a stepfather who participates in every facet of their lives. Their natural father refuses to give permission for a name change without the elimination of child support. Does anyone know how old the children have to be before they are allowed to change their name without their natural father's permission in the state of Georgia? Does anyone know where I can find this info? Thanks


Asked on 12/01/03, 11:07 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Harold Holcombe Harold D. Holcombe, P.C.

Re: Legal name change for minors

If your ex has not 'abandoned' the child it would likely be difficult to get their name changed without his permission. When they reach the age of 18 then they will be able to change it fairly easily. From the tone of the letter, it seems that you might want them to change their names to get back at their Ex a little. In the grand scheme of things, why not just wait the 6 years and let them make that decision when they get 18? Also, instead of a name change, keep in mind that Georgia allows adult adoptions, whereas an adult can be adopted. When they reach the age of 18 they would have the option of just changing their name, or becoming your husbands legally adopted child.

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Answered on 12/01/03, 1:37 pm


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