Changing my childrens last name

[cardiogirl35]

My children are 14 and 15. Have not seen the father since the were 1 and 2. We were never married. He is on one of their birth certificates but not the other. I was married to someone else when I had them. I live in Florida. Can I change their last names without his signature?

 

[jacksgal]

This same question must come up at least once a day. You do not have the power to strip the other parent of his/her rights. You are free to petition court for this but after so long why is this even an issue? Given the time frame Dad has be absent its very likely judge would grant this but you cannot do so on your own you need a court order. You will also likely be required to make an attempt to contact the Father