Legal Question in Family Law in Illinois

I have joint parenting agreement. My son's mother has NEVER followed this agreement. To make a long story as short as possible, my question is : went to my son's 8th grade graduation last night, I almost fell over with shock when they announced his name. They announced it with my last name-her last name. That is not his legal name. This hyphenated name is also on his diploma. After graduation my son told me he was upset and that he nothing to do with this. I emailed the principle with this and wanting to know why and how this was allowed. It was a lengthy email that went into detail of other issues that have happened at this school. I asked for all the documents they have regarding how this name was changed, etc. My response was to call the office and make an appointment to discuss my concerns. This is not acceptable to me. My other son has not spoke to me in a year. His brother told me it is because their mother said something to him in private and after she said whatever she said....he will not speak to me. This has been a heartbreaking road for me and the kids. What can I do about getting that name removed from his diploma? Not to mention all the other questions I asked the school. I do not want a conference with them at this point, I want answers and the name on diploma to reflect his legal name. Thank you.


Asked on 6/02/11, 11:32 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jonathan Shimberg Shimberg and Crohn, P.C.

She did not have the right to change his name. It should have been in your parenting agreement. If she has done so, you should file a motion seeking that she be held in contempt, and seeking to order her to take all steps to correct the school records and obtain a new diploma. you need to try to get yourself and your other son into counseling to repair your relationship, either with the agreement of your ex or an order of court. These issues will have to be mediated before you go to court, however. your JPA requires mediation of issues such as these.

Read more
Answered on 6/02/11, 11:53 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Adoption questions and answers in Illinois