Surname Change

[Janbuck]

Couple have child, not married. Child has father's surname and on his birth certificate. Child not been baptized. Child now 18 months old. Couple split up and mother wants to change child's surname to hers. Can she do this without the father's permission. Any help on this much appreciated.

[China Doll]

No, can't change childs surname.

[kvalidir]

She can apply to the court for permission to and if it is in the childs best interests they can sanction the change or more usually she can simply request that the child be known as whatever her surname is with the Dr and school etc, which is more common, as you can be known as whatever you like, as can your children without the need for an official change.

[jno]

for non-official purposes you can call yourself what you like as long as you aren't trying to defraud anyone.

[hc4361]

Good information here
http://www.familylives.org.uk/advice/divorce-and-separation/your-children/how-to-change-your-child-s-surname/

Baptism has nothing to do with it, by the way

[Janbuck]

Thanks everyone for your help.