Legal Question in Family Law in New Jersey
Changing my stepsons last name
How can I go about changing my stepsons last name to be the same as me and my wife?
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Changing my stepsons last name
Its a pretty simple process. You need a motion and a public notice. Nothing I can say over this BBS can help you with the motion. The court may have a pro se kit available, I would call up and ask.
The only real issue will be the biological father of the child. He will have to be noticed and that may create some issues. I would need to know more info about this setup before I give you a better answer.
Otherwise, you can get a lawyer to handle it for you. It shouldn't be a costly process for you and it may be worth the money to not have to figure it all out for yourself. My initial consultations are always free, so feel free to call me at 732/247/3340.
Good luck.
Re: Changing my stepsons last name
This is something you could take care of yourself. The following link will take you to more information on the court's website regarding name changes.
http://www.judiciary.state.nj.us/prose/10552.pdf
You can also hire an attorney. This would make it a lot easier for you. My office regularly handles matters such as this and could assist you. Please feel free to contact me for a free consultation. 732.370.3000
Re: Changing my stepsons last name
I love doing these. I did one a while ago, where the Judge asked the 5yr old boy what he wanted his new name to be, and the little guy looked up and said: "Spiderman!!!" His name was changed as his mother asked, the Judge laughing for the rest of the hearing.
The procedure is pretty simple, the forms are pretty straightforward. It takes a couple of months, because you need to publish notice in the newspaper and go in front of the Judge. If the boy's father objects, however, you might have to fight it out.
You could try to do it on your own. Of course, it would be a lot easier for you if you hired a lawyer to do this for you.
If you would like, give me a call; I am in northern New Jersey. I will be happy to discuss this with you; the telephone consultation will be free.
My contact information can be obtained from the links below, just click on the Attorney Profile link. Let my secretary know you found me through LawGuru.
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