having a child without being married

[jondavis0227]

What is the name of your state? Georgia

okay here it goes i'm 17 and my girlfriend is 19, and she's pregnant, mine and her parents know so no worries there, but my question is, if we dont get married will the child be able to take my last name or will i have to go through a long legal process to have the child take my last name. what is the better decision to get married now or wait till after the child please help me in anyway you can thanks

 

[howamidoing]

Not being married will leave you with no parental rights. You need to be legally established as the father this will likely include a paternity test. I dont know the state rules. I know that in Missouri you can put the father on the birth certificate, however the father has to sign an affidavit saying he is the father. I still believe though that a paternity test must be done. Im sure someone will come along and let you know.