Legal Question in Family Law in Louisiana

Can Minor's Name Be Changed From Out Of State W/ Kit?

My wife and I want to change our 3 yr. old's last name from her maiden name to the name we both now have. I have seen several kits for name changes sold on the internet, some specifically for minors, but they all seem to require that you file the forms personally. We are a military family stationed in South Carolina, so filing the forms in person is impossible.

What options do we have? Would the child's grandparents, who still live in state, be able to file the paperwork? Or should we bite the bullet and hire an attorney to do so for us?


Asked on 2/19/03, 2:28 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Otto Ferrene, jr. Ferrene & Associates, PA

Re: Can Minor's Name Be Changed From Out Of State W/ Kit?

Go see an attorney. It may be possible, if you meet the jurisdiction and residence requirements, for you to change the child's name in South Carolina Family Courts.

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Answered on 3/08/03, 10:13 am
Steve LeBlanc Steve LeBlanc, Ltd., (APLC)

Re: Can Minor's Name Be Changed From Out Of State W/ Kit?

I suggest you consult a South Carolina attorney, since you are there and their laws may be different from ours. I wouldn't trust anything legal that you can buy over the internet.

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Answered on 2/19/03, 3:43 pm
Robert Johnston Law Offices of Robert J. Johnston

Re: Can Minor's Name Be Changed From Out Of State W/ Kit?

The law has gotten stricter on name changes. The courts now require that you appear in court. It is possible to do it without an attorney, but unlikely that you would get favorable results. The courts require proper filing, serving, a guardian, notice, verification, esablising in court venue, jurisdiction, the averments in the pleadings, etc. I would consult with an attorney to see that it is done right and not trust something bought over the internet. Hiring an attorney is not "biting the bullet," its hiring a professional to perform a perfessional task. Same thing with a doctor, if you are sick, I would consult with a medical professional before buying some cure over the internet. Good luck.

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Answered on 2/19/03, 5:53 pm


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