My DD is almost 6 now. I had her when I was a teenager. Her father has not had any contact in 3 years due to several issues that were present from the start (DV, addictions, emotional abuse), although there is nothing legal in place for this.
Since so many years have passed without contact and she is old enough to be aware of circumstances, I would like her to have my name only. Not only would it make things simple (school, doctors etc.) but I hope it would save embarrassment if she ever had to explain to her friends why she has that name.
When I asked her father for permission to do this very politely, he made it clear it was not going to happen, as if it’s the last thing he has ‘ownership’ of.
I would like to point out he has NEVER financially contributed, had another child and convictions for DV against her mother whilst I turned my life around and have my own home, a very stable happy life and I’m almost a qualified midwife.
AIBU to take out a court order and forcibly change it? Would I even be granted permission for this given there is no legal custody agreement in place?