Christening name game
Question
My partner and I have just had a baby. We are not married, and have agreed that the baby should use my surname. When it comes to registering the baby's name, however, we would like both parents to be included on the certificate. Is this possible, even though the baby will not be using the father's surname? Also, does this have any bearing when it comes to having the baby christened?
Answer
As far as registering the birth is concerned, you are able to give your child any names you choose. This means giving the child your surname is not a problem. Even if your partner is with you when you register the birth, and his name is on the certificate, only you have the right to determine the names that your child will have.
You may want to consider whether you want to have your partner with you when you register the birth. This is because, in doing so, he will gain parental responsibility. For example, should your relationship end, he would have certain rights over the child in determining whether or not you could emigrate with the child, the type of education it has or any medical treatment it receives. For more information about parental responsibility issues, check out the Children's Legal Centre website.
The names that you give the child when you register the birth are its legal names, and a christening only confirms this. You may just need to consult the vicar of your local church over their attitude to christening children of unmarried couples.
Updated: 22/01/2009
Question answered by CAB
