Divorce is a complicated process in and of itself, but when children are involved, it becomes an even more significant challenge, one that can be heart-wrenching. While there are plenty of questions surrounding divorce, custody and finances, one common question is whether it is okay to change your child’s last name. Unfortunately, there is no easy answer, and it may be in your best interest to seek out divorce lawyers in Michigan, such as the Law Firm of Victoria, to answer this and other custody questions. However, on a less specific note, there are some general rules and guidelines when it comes to changing your child’s last name.
Court Approval
While there may be many reasons for you to want to change your child’s last name, it is essential that you are sure your reasons align with the best interest of your child. Keep in mind that your son or daughter has only ever known one name and that by changing that name you may be causing them confusion or emotional distress on some level. Their name can equate to their identity, and a change in that can cause a loss of self. That being said, whatever your decision, a court must approve the decision and understand the reasoning. You may also be required to submit documentation proving that you discussed the change with the other parent before approval can be granted.
Custody and Name Change
All child custody lawyers will tell you that petitioning to change your child’s name is not a unilateral decision, regardless of the standing custody agreement. Your ex gets a say in the decision. Full custody does not negate parental rights, that is another process altogether and is only reserved for extreme cases.
Influencing Factors
While divorce lawyers for women may support the grounds for a name change, it is ultimately up to the court to decide. When considering the validity of a name change, a court will have to reflect on several areas of interest.
- Paternity
Paternity is a strong determiner when it comes to grounds for a name change. While it is generally acknowledged that children born during a marriage belong to each spouse, there are instances where this is not the case. If you are the parent to a child born before or after your marriage and you believe that your ex is not, then you likely have grounds for changing the last name. However, you will probably have to prove that your ex is not the biological parent.
- Relationship
Courts, especially family courts, take the well-being of your child very seriously. Therefore, if your ex objects to the name change and they have a good relationship with your son or daughter, then a court is not likely to allow the change. However, they may if there is a question over paternity.
- Benefit
Is there a benefit to changing your child’s last name? If so, what is it? A court will want to know. As stated, the court does not want to cause any undue harm or duress, and there is potential for emotional harm when changing a child’s name. Therefore, if you do not have cause or a good reason, a court is not likely to permit such a change.
There are several factors to changing a child’s last name, and most courts will question the validity of such a decision. Therefore, if you want to go through with the lengthy and likely stressful process, you may want to find divorce lawyers in Michigan who can help. Contact the Law Firm of Victoria at (248) 780-1775 and hire an experienced family law attorney to guide you through the process.