Legal Question in Family Law in New Jersey

child name change / emancipation

My children have not seen or heard from there father in 4 years. There has been a history of abuse and he recently was released from prison for the second time. They often ask if they could take my last name - they are 11 and 9. i have full custody and have raised and supported them myself

is it possible for them to take my last name legally

thank you very much


Asked on 6/30/03, 10:21 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Gary Moore Gary Moore Attorney At Law

Re: child name change / emancipation

It should be possible. Please call me ag 800 273 7933.

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Answered on 7/01/03, 7:25 am
Philip Burnham, Esquire Burnham Law Group, LLC.

Re: child name change / emancipation

It likely that you can accomplish this. You would have to file with the Court to have their name changed. Feel free to call me at 856-489-8888.

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Answered on 7/01/03, 9:19 am
Bruce Matez Gerstein Grayson, LLP

Re: child name change / emancipation

The law is favorable to the custodial parent regarding the changing of a child's surname. You need to file an application with the Court to do so. You will also need to serve the application on their father. He can contest it, however, as I said, the law is favorable to the custodial parent. If you would like to further discuss this issue or retain my firm to represent you, please feel free to contact my secretary, Debbie, at 856-795-6700 to schedule a consultation.

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Answered on 7/01/03, 4:50 pm


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