Legal Question in Family Law in Massachusetts

paternal rights

My daughter's biological father has not been in the picture for over a year. He has not made any contact with her or myself. She has his last name how long before I can change her last name? Is there a time period where his rights are forfeit?


Asked on 12/05/08, 9:26 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Jane McGowan McGowan Legal

Re: paternal rights

Changing a child's name has no bearings on a father or mother's parental rights. the father may oppose the name change, but he will have to prove that it is not in your child's best interest. You will have to show why it is in the best interest of your child to change her name.

good luck

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Answered on 12/06/08, 9:33 am


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