Legal Question in Family Law in New Jersey

Unmarried father's rights

My son is 20 years old, his girlfriend is 17 and they are unmarried and expecting a baby. Does my son have any say whatsoever in what the baby's last name will be. At first the girlfriend assumed it would be my son's last name but after discussion with her parents she now thinks they should use her last name. What are an unmarried father's rights, in any, with regard to his child's name.


Asked on 2/04/02, 8:52 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Robert Gleaner Robert A. Gleaner, P.C.

Re: Unmarried father's rights

This is only the tip of the iceberg. This issue, like all other issues, if not amicably agreed to between the parties, will be determined by the Court in the best interest of the child. There are so many other issues that need to be decided, including parenting time, support, day care location....the list goes on and on and will change constantly as the child gets older. Both your son and his girlfriend need to resolve these issues, either themselves or with the assistance of attorneys or a mediator. Keep in mind that this advice is based purely on the little bit of information that you have given to me. There certainly may be other factors that would change my opinion. Further, no one can rely on advice from an attorney who has not been retained. Since it appears that you have not retained an attorney, you may want to contact an attorney (either me or someone else) to discuss your matter in more detail. Only then will you be able to rely on the advice. I will be happy to assist you. However, you need to call me at 856-546-8010. Good luck! Rob

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Answered on 2/04/02, 12:22 pm


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