Florida Child Name Change: How to Change a Minor's Name (2026 Guide)

Changing a Child's Name in Florida

Changing a minor child's name in Florida requires both parents' consent or a court order. The process is more complex than adult name changes because the court must consider the child's best interests.

This guide explains exactly how to change a child's name in Florida, including what happens if one parent objects.

---

When Parents Change a Child's Name

Common Reasons

• Stepparent adoption: Child taking stepparent's surname
• After divorce: Changing child's surname to custodial parent's name
• Correcting errors: Fixing mistakes on birth certificate
• Both parents agree: Parents want a different name for their child
• Safety reasons: Domestic violence situations

Requirements

---

Two Paths: Consent vs. No Consent

Path 1: Both Parents Consent

If both parents agree to the name change:

This is the fastest path—typically 4-6 weeks.

Path 2: One Parent Objects (or Can't Be Found)

If one parent doesn't consent:

This path takes longer—typically 2-4 months.

---

Notice Requirements

When Both Parents Consent

If both parents sign the petition or consent forms:

• No additional notice is required
• Hearing can be scheduled promptly

When One Parent Doesn't Consent

The non-consenting parent must be:

• Served with a copy of the petition
• Given notice of the hearing
• Allowed to appear and object

What If You Can't Find the Other Parent?

If the other parent cannot be located after diligent search:

• Document your search efforts
• Request service by publication (newspaper notice)
• The court may proceed without the other parent's participation

---

What the Court Considers

The Best Interests Standard

Unlike adult name changes (where the person chooses their own name), child name changes require the court to determine what's in the child's best interest.

Factors Considered

What Strengthens Your Case

• Both parents consent
• Child wants the name change
• Clear reason that benefits the child
• No evidence of intent to cut off the other parent

What Weakens Your Case

• One parent objects with valid reasons
• Appears designed to alienate the other parent
• No substantial reason for the change
• Child has used current name for many years

---

Can the Father Prevent a Child's Name Change?

Yes, if he has parental rights.

If the father has legal parental rights (established through marriage, paternity action, or birth certificate acknowledgment), he must:

• Consent to the name change, OR
• Be served with notice and given opportunity to object

If the father objects, the court will hold a hearing and decide based on the child's best interest. Neither parent's preference automatically controls—the court makes an independent determination.

When a Father's Objection May Be Overruled

• Father has abandoned the child
• Father has no relationship with the child
• Father's objection is not in child's best interest
• Child strongly prefers the new name

---

Stepparent Name Changes

A common situation: the custodial parent remarries and wants the child to have the stepparent's surname.

Requirements

• Biological parent must consent or be served
• The stepparent's willingness to have child use their name
• Best interest determination still applies

When Courts Approve Stepparent Name Changes

• Biological parent is absent or has abandoned child
• Child has significant relationship with stepparent
• Child wants the name change
• Name change won't interfere with biological parent's relationship

When Courts Deny Stepparent Name Changes

• Biological parent objects and is involved
• Change appears designed to alienate biological parent
• No compelling reason beyond convenience
• Child doesn't want the change

---

Child Name Change Timeline

---

Child Name Change Costs

Court Fees

Attorney Fees

Our full-service representation: $1,495

Includes:

• Petition for Change of Name (Minor)
• Consent forms (if both parents agree)
• Service/notice coordination on other parent
• E-filing with the court
• Hearing scheduling
• Remote hearing representation
• Final Judgment of Name Change
• Instructions for updating child's records

---

After the Name Change

Update These Records

Birth Certificate Changes

In Florida, you may be able to amend the birth certificate to reflect the new name. This requires:

• Certified copy of the Final Judgment
• Application to Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics
• Additional fee

---

Common Child Name Change Mistakes

1. Not Serving the Other Parent

If the other parent has legal rights, they must be served or consent. Failing to do this can void the name change.

2. Thinking Custody Gives You Unilateral Authority

Even if you have sole custody, the other parent (if they have parental rights) must be notified of a name change petition.

3. Not Considering the Child's Opinion

For older children, judges often want to hear the child's preference. Ignoring your child's wishes can hurt your case.

4. Framing It as Punishing the Other Parent

Name changes should benefit the child, not punish an ex. Courts see through attempts to alienate.

---

Get Your Child's Name Changed Legally

Changing a child's name requires navigating consent requirements and court hearings. At Divorce.law:

• $1,495 full-service representation
• We handle consent forms, service, filing, and hearing
• Remote hearing representation included
• Statewide Florida service

Protect your child's interests with proper legal process.