Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

A name change is generally a simple court procedure but in this case you will have to have the father's permission to change the children's name. However, if his parental rights have been terminated or if they are over the age of 18 you do not need his permission. You will need to file a Petition for Change of Name in the Court which includes your signature and that of the children's father showing his consent. You file this in the county you live in along with the necessary filing fee paid to the Court. The Court will set a time for a short hearing in which you explain to the judge why their names should be changed and the Judge will sign a court order for name change which legally changes the child's name.