My son wants to change his last name due to teasing. His father abandoned us 12 years ago. We have not heard a word from him or received any form of support. How can I legally change his name without his dad giving consent?

My son wants to change his last name due to teasing. His father abandoned us 12 years ago. We have not heard a word from him or received any form of support. How can I legally change his name without his dad giving consent?

You file a petition for a name change with the court in whichever state you are located. Whether the father's consent is required will also depend on which state it is.