Legal Question in Family Law in Maryland
Baby's surname
An unmarried mother about to give birth, is she legally obligated to give the baby the father's surname or can she give the baby her own surname, and if she does what rights are given up, if any, as a result of giving the baby her own surname?
Asked on 7/16/04, 3:53 pm
1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Sher
Wagshal and Sher
Re: Baby's surname
She can give the baby her own surname if she wants, but she should put the father's name on the birth certificate. She won't give up any rights by doing this. If she wants to require the father to acknowledge paternity and support the child and he resists, she'll have to file a paternity case in court.
Answered on 7/16/04, 4:24 pm