Q: Is there any legal document I can provide to my girlfriend that gives her full authority over our child?
Me and my girlfriend live in Florida. She is divorced but kept her ex husband's last name. We are expecting and she wants the child to have her last name. I understand her concern, we have seen other mothers struggle to give their child a better life because the dad wouldn't consent (even with criminal record). I personally do not want my child to have her ex husbands last name. I intended and committed to be a good parent. We have a good relationship but she has trust issues which is why she doesn't want to get married now. It is the first child for both of us, so no other children in the picture. Can I sign a document to give her an assurance even if our child would have my last name?
A: If the two of you are not married, unless you file a paternity action she has 100% rights to the child. Putting your name on the birth certificate will not change that.
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