Changing child's name

[Pamela Mabray]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Alabama

My daughter has not seen or heard from her father in two years. Prior to that she had only seen him three times since he left when she was four months old. He was given visitation rights but has not used them nor has he paid any child support. His whereabouts are unknown.

My question is this: Can I change her name to my maiden name without his consent? If so, what do I need to do?

 

[Just Blue]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Alabama

My daughter has not seen or heard from her father in two years. Prior to that she had only seen him three times since he left when she was four months old. He was given visitation rights but has not used them nor has he paid any child support. His whereabouts are unknown.

My question is this: Can I change her name to my maiden name without his consent? If so, what do I need to do?

You will need to follow state law for the name change. Please google the statutes.

 

[TheGeekess]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Alabama

My daughter has not seen or heard from her father in two years. Prior to that she had only seen him three times since he left when she was four months old. He was given visitation rights but has not used them nor has he paid any child support. His whereabouts are unknown.

My question is this: Can I change her name to my maiden name without his consent? If so, what do I need to do?

Short answer: No.

 

[LdiJ]

Short answer: No.

I would say that the short answer is maybe. If dad is no where to be found mom would likely be allowed to serve him by publication.