Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in California
Medical Bills for Minors, who is responsible
My husband and his ex-girlfriend have a 5 yr old son. She took him to the dentist and did not pay the bill. It went to collection and my husband received a letter from the collection agency. So I called them to tell them and they informed me that my husband as well as the mother is responsible for any medical bills incurred for their son. Even if we didn't consent to the treatment or know of it happening. We never even received a bill yet we were on the collection list. That doesn't seem right to me. Can you please tell me whether the person at the collection agency was correct? Thank you
4 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Medical Bills for Minors, who is responsible
people who work at collection agencies are never right. unless there is a court order saying you pay half the medical i would ignore them.
Re: Medical Bills for Minors, who is responsible
In a word, "NO," the credit guy is not right. Your husband has no responsibility for the care of you ex-husband and his girlfriend's child. Neither do you. Demand that any credit comment about this matter be deleted. It is possible that the credit bureau did not understand the situation, which is a bit convoluted. Try again.
Re: Medical Bills for Minors, who is responsible
Ignoring them could be hazerdous to your credit rating. Was there a written support agreement between the ex and your husband? That could determine liability. Also, parents are generally responsible for the necessaries of life of their children. Dental work would come under that heading.
He may have some liability, but also a basis to recover at least 1/2 from ex. Try to make an arrangement with the agency.
Re: Medical Bills for Minors, who is responsible
While a parent is liable for neccesities of life, he needs to be given notice of such a demand for payment. If you fax me at 714 363 0229, all letters and documentation you have, I will call you and provide you with free consultation.
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