
Quoting
JELLIOTT
I want to change my daughters (age 2 and 5) last name from their fathers last name to my last name. He does pay $300 per month support, but has minimal contact with them. The contact he does have is initiated my me. One was born in Alabama, the other in South Carolina. I am a career military member and for the ease of myself and my kids, I believe it would be better for them to have my last name. Having a different last name just causes way too much confusion for the kids. Also, his last name will be a catalyst for cruel jokes and teasing by other kids as they get older. Without giving too much info, their last name is gender specific and happens to be the opposite of Females. He lives in Florida and will more than likely object to having their names changed. I am stationed in New Jersey. Can I file something in NJ to change their last names, or do I need to file in their birth states? And more importantly, do I need his consent? Thanks!!