What is the child's last name, if the parents are unmarried

[nakia]

I live in California, and I was told that if my childs father is not present at the time of birth I can not name him on the birth certificate of give our baby his last name? He will be away at school for the military and can not change this. I want our child to have his last name as well as him be on the birth certificate. Can you help me out with this? Thank you in advance .

[aaron]

If you are not married, California law requires that both parents sign a "Declaration of Paternity" form before the father's name will be put on the birth certificate. As the father will not be present, you may add his name to the birth certificate at a later date after you obtain, complete and return the proper forms from the Department of Vital Records.

[nakia]

Thank you , so does that mean that until he is added I can't give the baby his last name?

[aaron]

I am not sure whether you are restricted in California to giving the child your own name, or if you can designate a different name on the birth certificate. If you call the County Clerk's office, they can probably tell you.

[nakia]

Last question I promise ..... if you are not married the child can have the father's last name correct?

[aaron]

Yes. (Heck - I even know couples where, for reasons of their own, the kids were given surnames different from both parents.