Can a mother change a child's last name without the father's consent in Indiana?
Asked by: Mariano VonRueden | Last update: July 7, 2025Score: 4.2/5 (15 votes)
Does the process require parental consent? The process generally requires consent from both parents, except when one or both parent(s) has abandoned or deserted the minor, failed to communicate significantly with the minor, or if the parent(s) has committed a crime against the child. Ind. Code § 31-19-9.
Can I change my child's last name without father's consent in Indiana?
Changing a minor child's last name without the other parent's approval can be challenging, as most states, including Indiana, require the consent of both parents for a name change, especially when it involves the rights and responsibilities associated with parenthood.
Can a mother put the father's last name without his consent?
Usually, both the father and the child's mother will have to agree to the name change. If there's a dispute or disagreement over this aspect of a child's life, you will have to go to court. If negotiations between the parents fall apart, court proceedings are common. A name change will then require a court order.
What is the procedure to change the name of a child?
- Submitting a notarized affidavit stating the current and new name, reason for the change.
- Publishing a notice regarding the name change in local newspapers.
- Filing a petition with the court requesting a name change.
- Attending a court hearing.
What happens if parents can't agree on a name?
However, if the child's parents disagree on a potential name change, the case may have to go to family court. For legal name changes, a family law court must approve the new name. Judges consider the best interests of the child when deciding a child's name.
Changing a Child's Last Name Without Father's Consent: When and How?
Who has final say on a child's name?
Who Has the Right To Name a Child? Both parents have the right to be involved in the naming process. So, if a father wishes to change the child's name, he needs the mother's parental consent. The mother also has the right to name a child.
What to do when you and your husband can't agree on a baby name?
- Take turns picking a baby name. If you plan to have more than one child, your partner can name this child, with the understanding that you will choose the name for the next child you have.
- Each choose a name. ...
- Let fate decide. ...
- Have someone else choose.
How long do you have to change your child's name?
To change the name on your child's birth certificate, contact your state's Office of Vital Records (typically part of the Department of Health). Many states allow new parents six to 12 months to make changes on a child's birth certificate without requiring a court order.
Can I change the name of my daughter?
A petition for change of name must be filed in the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of the locality where the child resides. The petition must demonstrate a valid and compelling reason, such as that the current surname is causing confusion or harm to the child.
Does a child automatically get the father's last name?
Baby gets the dad's/partner's name
Pros: The default choice in the United States is to give your child the last name of their father. This tradition is practiced by parents in a variety of situations – including heterosexual couples, same-sex couples, couples who adopt, and couples who choose not to marry.
Who has custody if both parents are on the birth certificate?
Recognition of Both Parents on the Birth Certificate
In most cases, this grants both parents certain basic rights to the child and acknowledges each parent's legal responsibilities. However, it doesn't automatically designate joint custody and may require additional legal steps for clarification.
Whose last name does the baby get if not married?
With a few exceptions, most states allow parents to choose their child's name, without restriction. Unmarried partners can decide to choose one parent's last name, hyphenate both last names, or create a new last name that combines both parents' names.
Can a baby have the father's last name if not married in Indiana?
The child may have either the father's or mother's last name. If the parents are not married when the child is born and paternity is not established: The father will not be listed on the birth certificate; and, The child will have the mother's last name.
What are the psychological effects of changing a child's name?
- Loss: Changing a child's name can potentially result in a loss of their original identity and connection to their birth family, culture, and heritage. ...
- Emotional Impact: For some children, changing their name can be emotionally challenging and may evoke feelings of loss, confusion, or rejection.
Can I change my child's last name without father's consent in Iowa?
If you are under 18 years of age, both parents named on your birth certificate must file their written consent to the name change. If one parent does not consent, the court will set a hearing.
Can a woman change a child's name without the father's consent?
Typically, both parents must agree to have a child's name changed.
How do I change the name of a child?
Name change of minor in India will be done on the basis of his/her parents. This includes affidavit, publication in newspaper and gazette notification to make the name change official.
Can I give my child a different last name?
Whatever the case may be, officially—and by that we mean legally—changing your child's last name is possible. It just requires some legwork, persistence… and this guide by your side. Read on for our step-by-step explanation of how to change a child's last name.
Can both parents have a child's social security card?
Generally the child's Social Security card can remain with one parent as it is not usually required until the child is older and starts to work. However, both parents need to know what each child's number is, often for medical records and such.
How many times can you legally change your name in a year?
No Strict Legal Limit
The ability to petition the court for a name change is considered a common law right. However, judicial scrutiny, specific state or local laws may place greater restrictions in the name of public safety or prevention of fraud. Research regulations in your jurisdiction.
Which parent has the right to name a child?
(a) If the mother is married at the time of birth, the mother and father whose names are entered on the birth certificate shall select the given names and surname of the child if both parents have custody of the child, otherwise the parent who has custody shall select the child's name.
Who comes first your spouse or your child?
"However, it's actually healthier to make your spouse the first priority." This is because it benefits all of your family members. If you have an emotionally solid marriage with a good foundation, your children will feel happier, more stable and more secure, Thomas says.
Do I have to give my baby my boyfriend's last name?
"It's perfectly reasonable to give YOUR baby YOUR last name. If you end up getting married or otherwise staying together as a family, then you can change the baby's last name if you want to."
Which parent determines the last name?
The couple must decide what last name the child will have. Unmarried couples aren't required to give their child a specific surname upon birth. The child may carry the mother's surname, father's surname or a hyphenated surname. The name the couple chooses then appears on the newborn's birth certificate.