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Name Change
We wish to change our 11-year-old son's name. Is my son’s consent required?

We wish to change our 11-year-old son's name. Is my son’s consent required?

Q: How much does it cost to legally change my child's name in Texas?

The cost to legally change a child's name in Texas can vary. Generally, you may expect to pay court filing fees, which can range from $200 to $300, plus any additional costs for obtaining certified copies of the name change order. It's advisable to check with your local court for specific fees.

Q: What age in Texas can a child choose which parent to live with?

In Texas, a child aged 12 or older can express a preference for which parent they wish to live with. The court will consider this preference, but it is not the sole factor in determining custody arrangements. The court's primary concern is the child's best interests.

Q: Can a 13 year old decide which parent to live with in Texas?

In Texas, a 13-year-old can express their preference regarding which parent to live with. While the court will consider the child's wishes, it ultimately decides based on the child's best interests, taking into account various factors such as the child's emotional needs and the parents' circumstances.

Full question:

I live with my wife and 11-year-old son in Texas. We want to change our son’s name. Is my son’s consent required to change his name?

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

Answer:

In Texas, if the child has attained 10 years of age or above, his written consent to the change of name must be attached to the petition. Requirements of a petition to change the name of a child are envisaged in Tex. Fam. Code § 45.002 which reads as:

“
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(b) If the child is 10 years of age or older, the child's written consent to the change of name must be attached to the petition.”

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

What if a child doesn't want to live with a parent?

If a child expresses a desire not to live with a parent, the court will consider the child's wishes, especially if they are 12 years or older. However, the final decision will depend on what the court believes is in the child's best interest, taking into account various factors, including the child's emotional and physical well-being.

How much does it cost to legally change my child's name in Texas?

What age in Texas can a child choose which parent to live with?

How do I legally change my child's name in Texas?

To legally change your child's name in Texas, you must file a petition in the district court where you reside. The petition should include the child's current name, the desired new name, and the reason for the change. If your child is 10 or older, you must also include their written consent. After filing, a hearing may be scheduled to finalize the name change.