Legal Question in Administrative Law in Pennsylvania

Middle name change of a minor

I live in FL curently. I am moving to PA in Feb. I wanted to file for my son's middle name to be changed here in FL. However, his father has now filed a paternity lawsuit to delay the change and my moving. So I was advised to finish that legal matter here before moving, and wait on the name change til later. (and since he left to another state while I was pregnant, they are pretty sure I will be able to move)

Anyhow, what is the time requirement for living in PA before filing? Are there age restrictions? (my son is currently 15 months) His father will not sign the consent, so I am leaving it up to a judge. The name is one I was persuaded to use, but I regret using. I want the change for his best interest. His father and I were not married, and our son does (regretfully) have his last name.

Thanks!


Asked on 10/27/07, 3:00 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
John Gibson John W. Gibson, Esquire

Re: Middle name change of a minor

You can use any name you choose in Pennsylvania so long as you are not a convicted felon. However, if you want the name changed on his birth certificate you do have to file a Petition to change his name. I don't think Pennsylvania Law regarding the name change of a minor involves changing the middle name.

(b) INFORMAL CHANGE OF NAME.-- Notwithstanding subsection (a), a person may at any time adopt and use any name if such name is used consistently, nonfraudulently and exclusively. The adoption of such name shall not, however, be in contravention of the prohibitions contained in section 702(c) (relating to change by order of court).

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Answered on 10/28/07, 2:00 pm


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