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How can I change a child's last name and remove my name from the birth certificate?

How can I change a child's last name and remove my name from the birth certificate?

Q: Do I need a lawyer to change a child's last name in Nevada?

While you can represent yourself when changing a child's last name in Nevada, hiring a lawyer may be beneficial, especially if the situation is complicated or contested. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, ensure all paperwork is correctly completed, and represent your interests in court if necessary.

Q: What happens if the other parent refuses to consent to a name change?

If the other parent refuses to consent to a name change in Nevada, you can still file a petition with the court. The court will consider the best interests of the child and may grant the name change even without the other parent's consent, especially if you can demonstrate valid reasons for the request.

Full question:

I found out that the child that I had custody for 5 years, who shares my last name, is not my daughter, by court ordered DNA. The mother became a prostitute and I had legal custody of the child. She was ordered to pay $100 a month in child support and then decided to tell the truth that the child was not mine. I have the court papers stating she isn't my daughter. The mother refuses to take my name off the birth certificate or change the child's last name, who now resides with her. How do I go about changing her last name back to her mother's and taking my name off the birth certificate. We did not live together and we were not married.

Category: Paternity
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Nevada

Answer:

To change the child's last name back to her mother's and remove your name from the birth certificate, you should contact the following office:

State of Nevada
Health Division
Bureau of Health Planning and Statistics
Office of Vital Records and Statistics
4150 Technology Way, Suite 104
Carson City, Nevada 89706
Telephone:

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 steps do I need to take to change a child's last name in Nevada?

To change a child's last name in Nevada, you must file a petition with the court. This typically involves completing specific forms, providing a reason for the name change, and sometimes attending a hearing. You will also need to notify the other parent, unless they are unavailable or have lost parental rights. Once the court approves the petition, you can then update the birth certificate with the new last name through the Office of Vital Records.

Can I remove my name from a child's birth certificate in Nevada?

Yes, you can request to remove your name from a child's birth certificate in Nevada, especially if you have legal documentation proving that you are not the biological parent. You will need to file a petition with the court and provide the necessary evidence, such as a court-ordered DNA test. After the court grants the request, you can contact the Office of Vital Records to update the birth certificate.

What is the process for updating a birth certificate in Nevada?

To update a birth certificate in Nevada, you must first obtain a court order for the change, such as a name change or removal of a parent’s name. Once you have the court order, submit it to the Office of Vital Records along with any required forms and fees. They will then process the update and issue a new birth certificate reflecting the changes.