Process of changing a minors last name

[bealfamily]

undefinedWhat is the name of your state?Virginia

We want to change the last name of an 8 year old child who has never seen his biological father although he was named after him. I have done all the research and now I am getting stuck in the process.
I am guessing here are my steps - can someone help me through this?
(1) file with the circut court to do so.
(2) send paperwork to the father at all addresses he may have had? Does this have to be done through the court or a private comp. or can I certify mail it?)
(What happens when I get nothing back?)

We have not heard or seen for him since my son was 4 months old so his location is beyond me. We have had a child support order in affect since then and the state has not found him (or chases him around).

Any help would be truely appreciated.

[Desprate]

My daughter had the same problem she did the steps you have with registered mail also ran it in the paper for 4 weeks when no reply came she went to the judge and he changed it hope this helps

[Wolflmg]

In most cases, they need concent from the biofather in order to change it. But since he doesn't seemed to be involved in his son's life and if he doesn't pay child support then it shouldn't be too much of a problem.