I want to change my daughters' names. They were originally born with my last name but I gave them their father's name (stupid, stupid, stupid) thinking that we would stay together and someday get married and live the happy life. Then he turned out to be not such a nice guy. He is doing visitation at this time but has not given me any child support. No matter what, does he have to approve of this or is there a chance that the judge will rule in my favor? Yeah he is their father but has not given them any financial or emotional support and in my eyes is not really a father figure.

Yes he has to approve, going through the same thing only my daughter still has my last name and I'm getting married to the man she calls daddy (not biologically tho) and I asked the same question to get her last name changed to what will be my new last name.. the only other way to get it done if he is unable to be found by the state they will post it in I believe 2 local magazines for a certain amount of time with the court date and if he doesn't show, then the court will grant the name change

yes he has to approve, going through the same thing only my daughter still has my last name and i'm getting married to the man she calls daddy (not biologically tho) and i asked the same question to get her last name changed to what will be my new last name.. the only other way to get it done if he is unable to be found by the state they will post it in i belive 2 local magazines for a certain amount of time with the court date and if he doesnt show, then the court will grant the name change

Its actually not that simple.

The best way is to get the consent of the biological father. Other than that, you will need a lawyer to force a name change without consent.