You petition the court for the name change, documenting service of your petition on the child's father. If he consents, following the appointment of a guardian ad litem and that person's report back to the court, the court will likely approve the name change consistent with the best interest of the child. If not, you will need to prove to the court that the name change is in the child's best interest, with a guardian ad litem similarly being appointed and making an independent recommendation.

