questions & answers

Question: I made a mistake on the father of my son. This mans name in on the BC. He has nothing to do with my son. I had the real father take a DNA test and and even with the results, he wants nothing to do with my son. Can I just have his last name changed to mine? I do not want him to go threw life with the wrong last name or with a mans name that does not want anything to do with him. I hate for him to pay for my mistakes

Answer:

If you are looking for a name change, you may want to read the article on this website titled, 'How to Change your Name," which discusses changing your own name as well as changing your child's name. You may also want to review the materials on the Maricopa County Superior Court's website about name change of a minor.

If you are looking to amend a birth certificate, you may want to review A.R.S. § 36-337, which explains when the state registrar shall amend a birth certificate. You may also want to review the information on the Arizona Department of Health, Office of Vital Records website on amending or correcting birth certificates.

You may want to speak with an attorney about who may be the legal father at this point and about what options you have based on your specific situation.