Even native English speakers get it wrong most of the time - there are no set rules for family names, especially as many of these names derive from other languages. Things you can do: 1) make your best guess and wait for the person to correct you. 2) say " I'm sorry , I'm not sure how to pronounce your name properly; is it .....? " and wait for them to respond. In either case, the other person is very unlikely to be offended as they will be used to correcting mis-pronounciation of their name, especially if it is awkward.

Mike: Hugh is read like the word "hue" (See Hugh Jackman or Hugh Hefner) As Neal said, a lot of names aren't originally even English and people will generally understand if you can't pronounce it right off the bat. Personally, it's very rare for someone to pronounce my last name correctly unless they know me, and I don't mean foreigners, I mean everyone. If you're not sure, just ask.

I am always in favor of BUTCHERING someone's name. If you say it REALLY badly (rather than slightly badly), you'll get a nice mini pronunciation lesson!

Are there clear rules of pronunciation at all? People say - are and I agree but not totally. There are many exceptions which we must memorize while studying.

I like the opposite. Which is trying to spell a person's name when they tell you it. This goes for First and Family name.