Legal Question in Family Law in California
collection of child support that was never court ordered
During a divorce from a husband who presently resides in Ca. and who was notified by publication of the divorce in 1976, the judge verbally ordered child support,however the final divorce decree had no such mention of child support in it. I have spent countless hours finding my ex, only to have him move either to another county and/or another state. After my children were grown he has since resurfaced and is located in Gualala, Ca., apparently living well. Is it possible to take him to court now to pay child support now after so many years since I was left with sole responsibility for their support?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: collection of child support that was never court ordered
If the court were here in Sonoma County I would pull the file out and see if there is a record of the judges order regarding child support (they call it a minute order). The court reported may also have a record. If you can find any evidence of the original order being made you can file an amended judgment. If you get an order/judgment you can then try to collect on it. Gualala is in Mendocino County. The Child Support Collection department may be willing to open a case and help you for free.