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    ANB428's Avatar
    ANB428 Posts: 450, Reputation: 42
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    #1

    Jul 16, 2009, 07:43 AM
    Changing a Minor Child's Last Name
    I previously posted a question a year or so ago asking how I could change my daughter's last name without the father's consent.

    Well, now I have the father's consent to change her last name and he wants to sign over his parental rights. I am aware of the fact that he can't just sign over his rights unless it is to clear the way for an adoption, or he is determined a danger to the child. I am not married and I don'thave anyone to adopt my daughter, so it isn't possible for him to sign over his rights yet.

    My question is, Where can I find the forms to change my minor child's last name? I live in the state of AL. Also, what do I need to do if he lives in CA and I live in AL? Can I just send him the forms and have him sign them and send them back to me, or what? Another question: How much will this cost? Thanks in advance for any advice given.
    stevetcg's Avatar
    stevetcg Posts: 3,693, Reputation: 353
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    #2

    Jul 16, 2009, 07:58 AM

    Have you tried the courthouse yet?

    And you should be able to send them to him and have a notarized signature - but check with the courthouse on the specific requirements as your mileage may vary.

    Cost is also specific to your court. A few hundred in CA, I think it was 130 in MA, its $40 where I live in Florida... so really, the court will be your best resource here.
    stinawords's Avatar
    stinawords Posts: 2,071, Reputation: 150
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    #3

    Jul 16, 2009, 09:38 AM

    For the costs you will need to contact the clerk of your county court house. Each county has different costs associated with court and the cost to file paperwork.
    ANB428's Avatar
    ANB428 Posts: 450, Reputation: 42
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    #4

    Jul 16, 2009, 12:04 PM

    Okay, thanks. I just need to go to Family Court correct?
    ANB428's Avatar
    ANB428 Posts: 450, Reputation: 42
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    #5

    Jul 16, 2009, 12:05 PM
    Another question. Do I need to have him get it notarized when he signs it or can I just do it when I receive it back and sign it?
    ANB428's Avatar
    ANB428 Posts: 450, Reputation: 42
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    #6

    Jul 16, 2009, 12:36 PM

    I just called the Family Court and they told me to call the Probate court. So, I did and they told me that I need to get a lawyer to change her last name because she is a minor. Is that true?
    stinawords's Avatar
    stinawords Posts: 2,071, Reputation: 150
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    #7

    Jul 16, 2009, 08:32 PM

    Well, as long as both parents are allowing the name change you don't generally have to have a lawyer unless of course there is something different in TN. Back to your other question though yes the father has to have it notarized because that is the only thing telling the judge that it was indeed him signing not just you forging the signature. (I'm not saying that you would but if he isn't in court to have it witnessed there has to be some sort of proof)
    ANB428's Avatar
    ANB428 Posts: 450, Reputation: 42
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    #8

    Jul 17, 2009, 06:24 AM

    Okay, sounds good. I will have a consult with a lawyer to see if I actually need one to do this. Thanks for all of your advice.
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