Changing a minor child's last name in Pa. ?

Question

I have full legal custody of my child and I want to change her last name, she has my maiden name. Her father and I signed the back of her birth certificate and got it notarized and changed it with the state, now I am having a hard time getting her name changed with her school and soc sec, they are saying that the updated birth certificate isn't a good enough and I need a court document for her name change, what must I do to change her last name?

Answer 1

You need to appear in court and get a court order to change it.  I am not exactly sure which department to contact.  So, I suggest you call the Prothonotary's office at your county courthouse.  If it isn't them, they will be able to direct you.  It may actually be in Family Court.

Answer 2

You need to explain this is a court order. Insist they change it if not, contact solicitor. Pennsylvania is a commonwealth and they give all a hard time