Legal Question in Family Law in Maryland

Name change of a minor

My ex-husband is listed as my child's father on the birth certificate and he is not the father. Paternity has been established with the biological father and the court ordered that the name be changed because the father asked to do so. However, it would appear that I have to get permission from my ex to relinquish his rights. What rights do he have, he never did anything for this child and he's not or ever has paid support for her. What do I do?


Asked on 7/25/01, 2:20 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Sher Wagshal and Sher

Re: Name change of a minor

If your ex has never exercised any parental rights I don't know why you should have to do anything about his "legal rights". However, the newly-adjudicated father should have been ordered to pay child support as part of the paternity proceeding. If necessary, you can file a petition to terminate your ex's parental rights, which I assume he will gladly agree to based on your characterization of the facts.

Read more
Answered on 7/25/01, 3:43 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Adoption questions and answers in Maryland