Legal Question in Family Law in Washington

Hyphenating a child's last name against the wishes of a biological father.

Can a mother who maintains primary custody of her child hyphenate the child's last name against the wishes of the biological father? The mother is remarried and has 2 children with her husband and the child wants to share the last name of her mom, stepfather, and siblings. Can it legally be changed to include a stepfather's last name against the wishes of the biological father?


Asked on 11/05/07, 5:38 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Elizabeth Powell ELizabeth Powell PS Inc

Re: Hyphenating a child's last name against the wishes of a biological father.

WA does not recognize custody. WA calls it primary residential placement.

Take the child to the nearest district court. Chances are the judge will tell you that the biological father has to agree or the court won't do it.

But you can always try. Hope this helps. Elizabeth Powell

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Answered on 11/05/07, 10:29 pm


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