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Name Change
What is needed to change my grandson's last name to our last name?

What is needed to change my grandson's last name to our last name?

Q: Can a mother put the father's last name without his consent?

In many states, a mother can give her child the father's last name without his consent if they are not married. However, if the father has established paternity and is involved in the child's life, his consent may be required for a name change. Always check your state's laws for specific requirements.

Full question:

I have legal custody of my minor grandson for 6 years. He wants and we would like to change his last name to ours as his father does not support or have any contact with him. He only occupied a home with him for six weeks. My Grandson is 9 and has lived with us for all those years, but we have had custody for 6 years. His mother is in agreement with us. What can we do?

Category: Name Change
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Maryland

Answer:

Please see the information and forms at the following links:

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Maryland Name Change Law

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Can a judge make me change my child's last name?

A judge can order a name change for a child if it is deemed to be in the child's best interest. Generally, both parents must agree to the change, or the parent seeking the change must demonstrate that it serves the child's welfare. If you have legal custody and the other parent is absent, you may have a stronger case for the name change.

Which parent has the right to name a child?

Typically, both parents have equal rights to name their child at birth, unless a court order states otherwise. If parents are unmarried, the mother usually has the right to choose the last name unless the father is involved and asserts his rights. In cases of legal custody, the custodial parent may have more authority in naming decisions.

Can a mother put the father's last name without his consent?

How long after a baby is born can you change their last name?

The timeframe to change a baby's last name varies by state. Generally, parents can request a name change soon after birth, often during the birth certificate registration process. If a name change is sought later, it typically requires filing a petition with the court, which can happen at any time, but it may involve more legal steps.