Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Massachusetts

Re: Changing name of minor child.

The other answers are correct. You should file a change of name form with the probate court in the county in which you live. I also agree with Atty Murray that you should consider filing a paternity/support action as well, regardless of why dad is not in the picture.

I will also note that, even if dad is not on the birth certificate, if you and he know that he is the father and you know where he is, you will need to notify him that you are seeking to change your son's name. If you do not know where he is, the court will have you publish a notice in a local paper that the petition has been filed.

Please let me kow if I can do anything for you. Good luck -

Re: Changing name of minor child.

You will need to go to the Family and Probate Court in the county where you reside and request to file a Change of Name Petition.

You will need to file a Court Filing Fee of (I believe) $165.00.

I charge a relatively inexpensive simple flat fee to prepare the appropriate paperwork, but you can certainly do it without an attorney.

Re: Changing name of minor child.

You or your attorney must file a change of name petition in the Probate Court for the County in which you reside.

While there you or your attorney should also consider filing a paternity and/or child support action against your child's father, as your child has a right to be supported by both biological parents.

Good Luck!