Can i change my step sons lastname to mine if his fater is unknown..... without adoption?

Question

Can i change my step sons lastname to mine if his fater is unknown..... without adoption?

Answer 1

In some states yes, in others no unless you are adopting him.  If the father was confirmed deceased, then yes, you could. In these days of DNA Paternity, changing the child's name could be construed as hiding a child. (for all the court knows, the mother chose not to tell the bio Dad that he was a father).

Answer 2

his mom could have it changed but must still go thru the court. Only parents can do it or if parents dead, then legal guardian can.

Answer 3

I don't think you can.  I think you have to do a step-parent adoption.  My sister was adopted by my dad and until then she had her father's last name.  I am wondering though.... why wouldn't you want to adopt him? I am pretty sure since the biological gather is unknown all that wouldl have to be done is contact a lawyer and have him file paperwork and a quick stop in court to finalize.

Answer 4

If you have been named their guardian, then I don't see why you wouldn't be able too.  Call a goverment office and ask them, or just go and pick up a name change form.

Answer 5

My sisters daughter(Sam) does not know her father but my sister knew the father he just wasn't around and Sam's last name is my sisters husbands last name - he didn't adopt; however, when Sam was 15 she figured it out and asked so the truth came out.  Sam wasn't too upset and still has the husbands last name.  Should not be an issue just know the truth may come out if you don't plan on saying anything if step son is still little.

Hope that wasn't too confusing

Answer 6

Are you his legal guardian?  If so, you may be able to do a name change through the probate court.

Answer 7

I have to say NO,. back in the 50's and 60's my Mom divorced with six children and then 3 yrs later remarried and had 5 more babies.  When I entered grade school I used my step father's last name and we all had the same last name....

Then when I was sixteen I was told by a school that I had to use my own legal name...I didn't know what it was or who it was connected to as I was the last child of the first marriage. I had never known any other Dad or other last name...It was devastating to me.

It was a very big adjustment. I learned that because our step dad ( a great guy) had not ever adopted us we had to use the name on the birth certificate....It was really awfull. I did everything I could not to have to say my legal last name. I thought the whole thing was just terrible.

Answer 8

his mother might be able to do a name change petition with the court.

Answer 9

Legal name changes require a court petition.  But if you married the boy's mother then it should be a simple matter you could probably do it yourself.

Answer 10

Yes, you should be able to. You may want to consult an attorney to find out the laws regarding it.