Legal Question in Family Law in Pennsylvania
child name change
can you legally change a childs last name without the consent of the father if the father is not an active participant in the childs life
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: child name change
It depends. Generally a name change for a minor requires the approval of both parents. A custodial parent will need to prove that she/he has sole custody of the child and is in a position to make all substantive decisions for that child. This is most easily done if the custodial parent has a court document evidencing custody.
An attorney can help you with this matter. The forms for a name change are relatively easy to complete and you can even appear for the hearing without representation, but understand what you are asking the court to do and why and have answers to all the possible questions ready.
But do yourself, the child and the court a favor and read up on this process further. Depedning on the age of the child it may or may not have a pretty significant impact on the child's life.
If I can be of further assistance in this or any other legal matter please contact me at [email protected].
Regards,
Roger Traversa
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