My question is pertaining to a child's last name in the state of: New York. I have been wanting to change my sons name for some time now, about 3 years. My sons last name is hyfinated my last name first then his fathers. We were never married. From the start my sons father let me know and be aware that I should feel privileged for my son to have his last name. (Lucky us) The reason for the drop would be because I'm scared to death my son will be treated differently because his father has a record. I want my son to have a fresh start. I don't want my son to be shot on site for something his father did 20 years ago. He painted a very dangerous lifestyle that he lived before he met me. I want to tell you I was awarded full custody do to the violent nature of this man. We also had a order of protection for 1 year. That ended in 2013. I have been scared he would come after us. I want my son to have the best chance at a normal life. I don't want you to think I'm painting myself as a saint, but I don't break the law.