My 17 year old step-son would like to change his last name to mine. I am married to his mother. He wants his last name to match his mother's.
I have the necessary petition form to file with the county court.
On this petition, there is a space for Petitioner and Co-Petitioner.
The form states that ALL parties that have a "legal relationship" to the minor must consent.
So, aren't there 3 people here that have a "legal relationship" to the minor?
My question: What are the mechanics to getting this done? Do I have to get the father to sign off on this? Can my wife and I sign the petition and just "notify" the father?
The father is difficult to reach and rarely responds to any correspondence or communication unless it directly impacts his financial situation or gives him an opportunity to "throw a wrench" in our efforts. Even, then, if it's too much trouble, he won't even try to mess with us...
Thank you so much for any information you can provide. I just need to know how to go about getting this done.
Thank you again!

