My question involves name change laws in the State of: Michigan
My girlfriend and I had a baby 1 week ago. We had quite an ordeal with her side of the family when it came to the birth certificate. She and I decided a long time ago that we wanted the baby to have "both" our last names. When it came time to complete the paperwork, I signed the paternity paers and I was listed on the birth certificate. However, when the nurse brought the copies in, my name was not listed after hers on the certificate application. I might add the only way I found this out is because the nurse said that a copy was for me and also her. Her mother right away took both envelopes and put them away. When she left the room it was then that my mother and I noticed that my name was never listed after hers. I went out to the nurse and asked them to stop any paperwork until I had time to discuss with my girlfriend. My mom is friends with her mom and brought it to her attention (as if there had been a mistake) she told my mom that 1.) It is up to the mother of the child to make the decision and that I have no rights when it comes to having my name given to my child 2.) that I was "lucky" that she even decided to list me on the certificate as the father 3.) that I basically have no rights 4.) that she has already consulted an attorney, and much more. I might also add that my girlfriend and I have been together for over 5 years, there is no doubt that this child is mine and her and I love eachother and are adult enough to make our own decisions. We are both over 18. When I discussed this with my girlfriend she said she had never talked to an attorney and they had lied about that. The only reason I can see that they have done this and said those things is because they are very controlling. It has even affected my time with my child and my immediate family. It has only been just over a week- but having her to my house to see my family has been an ongoing issue- something always comes up with her parents and my time is limited at my house. I am seeking legal help to petition the court for visitation, and I have also set up an account for support. They have said they do not expect me to pay any support- they are very well off and money is not a concern to them- however, I do not want them coming back on me down the road hanging that over my head. Her parents had said that even though my name was not given to the childs last name, down the road it would not be a problem adding it to her certificate. They said is costs $15.00 and is a matter of filling out a form. Does anyone know how true that is? I have known people who were told it is quite a process to change the baby's name on the certificate without adoption. I am listed as the father and the paternity papers were signed. I just want to know how accurate they are in assuming it is just a $15.00 fee and a quick process. Thanks for the help...

