Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in California

If it was used for the benefit of the community, meaning both you and your wife, then you are responsible for it. However, the credit card company will have to file a collection lawsuit against you to determine if the card was used for the benefit of both.

Mr. Powell is flat out wrong. If the charges were made during the marriage it is a community property debt and they can collect from you out of the community property, including cash and investment accounts, that you became the sole owner of upon her death.