What Do I Need to Do to Change my Child’s Last Name?
In general, a custody agreement does not give you the right to change your child’s last name. As such, even if the court awards you custody of your child, the court may still object to you changing your child’s last name. This is especially true if the other parent is involved in your child’s life and has a loving relationship with them.
Moreover, even if the other parent is not involved in the child’s life, the court may still object to you changing your child’s last name. To overcome this objection, you typically need to show the court that changing your child’s last name is in the best interest of the child. Overall, you cannot seek to change your child’s last name just because you do not like it.
In every jurisdiction, a court order is required to change a child’s last name.
In the event that you and the other parent agree to change the child’s name, the court may approve your request. This is especially true if the name changes in the child’s best interest. If the court approves the name change for your child, you must immediately notify the Social Security Administration and any state agencies so that your child’s birth certificate and Social Security card are updated to reflect the name change.
Brandon Legal Group
1209 Lakeside Drive
Brandon FL, 33510
Phone: (813)-902-3576
Email: service@brandonlegalgroup.com
