My question involves name change laws in the State of: Louisiana
I was in an abusive marriage for 5 yrs and got out. I have now been divorced since june 07. I have never denied my daughters father his rights but he simply doesnt get involved in her life. I dont agree that he should have rights due to the abuse. Anyway I kept his last name after our divorce so that me and my daughter could have the last name. But I have reached a milestone in my life and am ready to move on. I think that changing me and my daughters last name would benifit both of us. She is very close with my parents and for us to have my maiden name would represent a tie to her family that loves and charises her rather than a father that has abandoned her. I dont have any contact with my ex her father. I dont have any numbers, addresses, anything to know where he lives or how to get in contact with him. Our divorce was done in Texas and I have the original decree. Im sure I could change my name back no problem but I dont want my daughter to feel any hurt feelings over it. What can I do?

