Before you can terminate parental rights, the biological parent has to be notified of the hearing. Many parents question why this has to occur, when the other parent wasn't involved up to that point. The reason for this comes from ensuring permanent stability.
Changing a child's last name is possible in Pennsylvania, but it requires following specific steps and procedures. Parents have a right to oppose the name change, so it is important to establish that the name change is in the child's best interest.
Reconciliation after a separation comes with some considerations for how to protect yourself if you later decide to pursue a divorce. There are multiple tools you can use to ensure your interests remain protected.