Legal Question in Family Law in Arizona
i got served child custody papers on the 24th in california but i no longer live in that state i was picking up the rest of my stuff i live in arizona now what do i do
2 Answers from Attorneys
It doesn't matter where you are served. What matters is where the action is located. For child support, it remains either in the state where you (the obligor) lives or if both parties move, then the obligee can move the action. If he or she did not know you moved, then he or she is free to emforce in that state where the order originated.
You will need to file a reponse in CA. If you do not, he will be able to proceed "by default", and get whatever he asked for.
If you have lived in Arizona for awhiel, you may also be able to ask that the California case be dismissed, and that the custody matter be heard in Arizona.
We can certainly help you consider and then pursue your options.
One of our attorneys can explain the issues and procedures better in person. As you can imagine, there is too much to cover via email. We offer free 1/2 hour consultations, in which we can discuss your matter in detail.
Please call us directly to discuss the specifics of your matter, or contact my assistant Gloria or my paralegal Jennifer to schedule your free 1/2 hour consultation
/s/ Rich J. Peters
RJ PETERS & ASSOC., P.C.
1422 North 2nd Street, Suite 100
Phoenix, Arizona 85004
602-254-7251
facsimile 602-254-1229
see our website at www.familylawaz.com