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Name Change
My step son wants to change his surname to mine but his Father refused to relinquish his rights. Can we change his name?

My step son wants to change his surname to mine but his Father refused to relinquish his rights. Can we change his name?

Full question:

My step son wants to change his surname to mine, his father has never supported him and has rarely contacted him, but still refuses to relinquish his rights. I have been there for him for over five years. Can my wife and I change his name to our name?

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

Answer:

This is a question that comes up often but in most cases the Father is either gone or agrees. If the natural Father objects to the name change it may be enough for the Court to deny the change. Only the Court can decide but I would not count on it happening. When the child is considered old enough to make his own decisions he could ask for a name change.

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

How much is it to change your last name in PA?

In Pennsylvania, the cost to change your last name typically ranges from $150 to $300. This includes court filing fees and any additional costs for legal assistance if you choose to hire an attorney. Keep in mind that fees may vary by county, so it’s a good idea to check with your local court for specific amounts. 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.

How to change a child's last name if father is unknown?

If the father's identity is unknown, you can still petition the court to change the child's last name. You will need to provide evidence that you have made reasonable efforts to locate the father. The court will consider the best interests of the child when making a decision. It is advisable to consult with a legal professional to navigate this process effectively. 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.

How do you change your step child's last name?

To change your stepchild's last name, you must file a petition with the court. Both biological parents typically need to consent to the name change. If the biological father does not consent, the court will review the case, considering the child's best interests. It may be beneficial to consult an attorney to help with the process. 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.

Can my step kids take my last name?

Yes, stepchildren can take your last name, but it usually requires a legal name change process. This often involves filing a petition in court and obtaining consent from both biological parents. If the biological father objects, the court will evaluate the situation based on the child's best interests. Consulting with a legal professional can help you navigate this process. 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.

Can you change a step child's last name?

Yes, you can change a stepchild's last name, but it typically requires a court petition. Both biological parents usually need to agree to the name change. If one parent does not consent, the court will decide based on the child's best interests. It's advisable to seek legal guidance to ensure the process is handled correctly. 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.

How late can you change a child's name?

In Pennsylvania, there is no specific age limit for changing a child's name. However, if the child is over 18, they can petition for their own name change without parental consent. For minors, parental consent and court approval are generally required. The court will consider the child's best interests when making a decision. 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.