Change of Name

If you wish to change your child’s name, you will need the written consent of all of those with Parental Responsibility.

This will always include the child’s mother and in most cases, the child’s father. Please refer to our Parental Responsibility section for more information.

If you cannot obtain the written consent of all of those with Parental Responsibility, you can apply to court for a Specific Issue Order to change your child’s name. However, it is preferable to resolve the issue on a consensual basis, via negotiation or the mediation process.

Court proceedings can be expensive, lengthy and can increase animosity. Usually, the court will only change a child’s name if there are compelling reasons for the change and the change would benefit the child’s welfare.

For example, it is unlikely that a mother would succeed on an application to change the child’s surname to her own, on the basis that she has separated from the father, if the father remains involved in the child’s life.

We understand that not seeing your child every day is one of the hardest things about separation.

Our specialist solicitors can support and advise you as to your practical and legal options, tailored to your circumstances, as we know that every family is different.