Q: I was convicted of stalking my son's mother via email. Can she change our son's name?
A: In California, a parent wishing to change a child's name must obtain the consent of the other parent or provide legal notice of the proposed name change. If the other parent objects, the court will decide based on what is in the best interest of the child. Your stalking conviction, depending on its relevance, might be considered by the court when evaluating the best interests. However, a conviction alone does not automatically grant the other parent the right to change the child's name without your consent. The court will consider various factors, including the child's relationship with both parents and any potential harm or benefit from the name change. If you object to the name change, you should present your reasons in court. It's recommended to consult with legal counsel to discuss the specific details and implications of your case.
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