Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

My birth certificate (from California) has my birth father�s last name on it, but I have used my step-father�s last name since I was approximately 3 years old. My driver�s license, military records, social security, passport, school records, etc. all have my step-father�s last name. I have never legally changed my name but I am planning to get married in the coming year and one of the required documents of course is my birth certificate. Currently I live in Italy, How can I legally change my last name to my step-fathers while living overseas? My last state of residence was Texas. Do I have to go through California or Texas courts?


Asked on 7/13/12, 4:53 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Veronica Dorsey The Dorsey Law Firm

Was your biological father�s paternity ever established through a court order? If so, in what state? Many Paternity Orders in Texas have a name change prevision in which the Court addresses and orders the child�s surname to be changed, usually, to dad�s last name or at least a hyphen with mom�s surname name and dad�s last name. If this is the case, the necessary follow-up, especially with government agencies, probably did not occur, and you have been using an alias. If a court never ordered a name change, an Original Petition for Name Change may need to be filed on your behalf. Call to discuss additionally. (713) 588 4414

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Answered on 7/13/12, 5:39 am


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