Can I change an adopted child’s name?

In Florida, the answer to the question “Can I change an adopted child’s name?” is yes. A name change is allowed once the adoption is finalized and the child is legally considered part of the adoptive parents’ family. The adoptive parents are not required to change the child’s name, but many parents choose to do so in order to fully begin a new life for the child, unencumbered by their past. If the adoptive parents would like to change the adopted child’s name, they must first contact the court where the child’s adoption was approved. The court will require a petition to be filed which will include the petitioners’ (adoptive parents’) agreement to the name change. The petition will also list the child’s current name, the new name that will be chosen, and the reasons why the name change is being requested. After the petition is filed and approved, the court must prepare an order that legally changes the adopted child’s name. The new name becomes the child’s legal name and can be used on applications, school forms, identification documents, and other legal documents. Therefore, it is important for the adoptive parents to choose a name that is appropriate and will be well-suited for the child. Once the name is changed, the child will be able to start their life under a new name, secure in the knowledge that they are part of a new family.

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Can I change an adopted child’s name?

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