Changing Last Name of Minor to Mother's Maiden Name Without Father's Consent
My question involves name change laws in the State of: Missouri:
What are the legal steps to change a child's name including last name. Parents never married but Father's name is on the birth certificate and the child carries the father's last name. I want to change the childrens' last name to my last name (maiden) as well as their first names. Their father is in prison due to criminal charge/conviction I am the victim. How do I go about this? Does the father have to be involved at all?
Re: Changing Last Name of Minor to Mother's Maiden Name Without Father's Consent
The information is here: http://www.selfrepresent.mo.gov/page.jsp?id=3834
Unfortunately for you, the father MUST be involved. He will be served and given the opportunity to oppose your petition. It's up to the judge to determine if it is in the best interests of the child to allow the name change. You may wish to consult a lawyer. The fact that "daddy's in jail for beating up mom" is not necessarily justification to remove his surname from the child. You'd be best served to have someone help with the justification.
Re: Changing Last Name of Minor to Mother's Maiden Name Without Father's Consent
Mom, how long will Dad be incarcerated, and how old is the child?