when the contact information for the other parent is unkown...

You will be required to complete several steps to attempt to contact the other parent.  If the other parent can not be reached or doesn't respond, you will usually be allowed to proceed with the petition.

If the other parent responds and does not agree with the name change, Florida Law requires mediation before a petition for name change can be filed.
Want to work with a lawyer?
See resources for your county to work with a lawyer.

Have a question about the process?
Select your county to see the contact information for your Clerk of Court.
To go back to the previous page, click the back button in your browser