How Do I Change My Daughter's Last Name

[retyln]

My question involves name change laws in the State of: Minnesota

My daughter is seven years old and has my maiden name as her last name, but has been begging for me to change her name to my married name. Her birth father does pay child support, but has no custody or interaction with her and never has. Do I need his consent to change her name or to even hyphenate it? She has had a really difficult time since her baby sister arrived and I would like to be able to do this for her peace of mind.

[Dogmatique]

A legal option which does not have to involve Dad: You, your husband and baby sister change your name to that of your 7 year old.

(I know, I know, I generally get yelled at for suggesting that - but it remains a legal option)

Yes, you do need Dad's consent. Or at least, you need to notify him - he'll then be able to object and you'll be going to court. As a general rule if the parents don't agree then hyphenation is used.

[jk]

Dogmatique;628833]A legal option which does not have to involve Dad: You, your husband and baby sister change your name to that of your 7 year old.

(I know, I know, I generally get yelled at for suggesting that - but it remains a legal option)

I like that. That's thinking outside of the box and does allow all the members of that family to have the same surname.