How Can I Legally Change My Child’s Name in Pennsylvania?
A parent may request that a child’s name be changed in an effort to begin a new chapter in life. Parents should be aware that the court makes the final ruling on whether to grant a name change and that notice of the court proceedings must be provided to both parents.
Our Harrisburg, PA, family law attorneys can discuss the factors the court takes into consideration when granting a name change for a minor.
Requesting a Name Change When Both Parents Consent
If both parents consent to the name change, the procedure is much simpler than if only one parent consents. In the event that both parents consent, then the biological parents must sign and complete the form located on the back of the child’s birth certificate in the prescence of a notary. The form must be mailed to the Department of Vital Statistics. Since you are modifying your child’s birth record, the process may take up to 20 weeks to take effect.
Requesting a Name Change When Only One Parent Consents
If you wish to change your child’s name but the other parent does not consent, the process becomes more complex. You will be required to file a petition with the Court of Common Pleas in the county in which you reside. Unlike an adult requesting a name change, the court has different factors when deciding whether to grant a child’s name change. You will need to demonstrate that the name change is in the “best interest” of your child.
What Factors Does the Court Consider in Granting a Name Change?
In some situations, changing your child’s name following divorce may be important to you. The following factors will be examined by the court in discerning whether a name change for a minor is appropriate:
- If the parent requesting the name change is the parent whom the child sees the most often, then the court may be more inclined to grant the change. The court believes that it is important to maintain a strong link between the custodial parent and the child. If you are the non-custodial parent requesting a name change, then the court will consider your involvement in the child’s life before making their decision.
- In other situations, the family name may have a bad reputation in the community. This may be the case if a family member committed a crime or any heinous act. If changing your child’s name will protect your child from ridicule and embarrassment, the court may be more likely to grant your request.
- The court will also want to understand that the child will understand the impact of the name change. The age and ability of the child could factor into determining the child’s ability to understand what the name change entails. If the child is old enough and has a preference, a judge will take the child’s desires into account.
Should I Hire a Family Law Attorney During the Process?
The process of getting your child’s name changed can be complicated, and there is no promise that it will be easy. Upon filing the petition with the court, you will need to publish a notice in at least two newspapers notifying members of your community that you intend to change your child’s name. If the other parent objects to the name change, you will want legal counsel to help you in discerning your next steps.
Our family law attorneys have seen various family structures and dynamics, and we have experience working to help parents through difficult situations. In hiring a Harrisburg family law attorney, you are giving yourself and your child the best chance of getting a name change approved by the court.
A Harrisburg, PA, Family Law Attorney Advocating for You
At Purdy Law Office, LLC, we know that you are always striving to do what is best for your child. We seek to make individuals comfortable with the name change process, taking the time to address any of your concerns. If you are interested in learning more, contact us online or by phone to schedule a meeting with a Harrisburg, PA, family law attorney.
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