Legal Question in Family Law in Michigan
I have a 4 1/2 year old who's "father" hasn't been in her life in 3 years, I've tired to contact but after awhile I figured it was his loss, it's not my job to make sure they have a relationship! I was young and didn't know any better, he is an ex con and has multiple children that he doesn't pay support on any of them, I never took him to court for support because I knew I would never see a dime and I was just done! He was physically abusive to myself and didn't care if he hurt her in the process! Anyways I'm married now and she knows my husband as her dad, I want to change her last name and they told me to get proof he hasn't been around, but I have no idea how to prove that?! You would think if he wanted to fight it he'd have to prove he was around but that's not how it works I guess I just need some ideas I have my ppo but that's for me so I don't know if that will help
1 Answer from Attorneys
You need to meet with an experienced family law attorney. You may be able to change the child's name without furnishing proof to the court. You might also be able to terminate the father's parental rights. There are many fine family law experts in Grand Rapids and in Ottawa County.