My son divorced after a marriage lasting only a year. He still has contact with his daughters, but finds that they are known locally by his ex-wife’s maiden name and have been enrolled at the infant school in her name too. There has been no court application about this. Is there anything he can do?
The children’s surnames should not be changed without the written consent of the other parent, and if this is not forthcoming an application should be made to the court for permission. It’s unlikely that the court would make such an order other than in exceptional circumstances. Your son should see a solicitor immediately and if necessary make an application to the court to prevent or rectify the name change.