Legal Question in Family Law in California
Debt between a married couple
Is a spouse responsible for paying debt incured by the other partner ever? ( e.g. if the partner cannot work or dies and cannot pay his or her own debts). Thank you.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Debt between a married couple
Yes. However, you should consult an attorney, if the debt is of sufficient amount to warrant contacting an attorney. This is an complex area of the law and is very fact dependent. Debts incurred during the marriage, particularly of for necessities of life the other spouse would be liable for paying.
Re: Debt between a married couple
Debts incurred during the marriage for and on behalf of the community are generally deemed to be community debts for which both parties are equally liable.
There may be other issues involved and therefore it would be worth you while to consult with an attorney rather than tackle the issue yourself.
If this office can be of assistance, please feel free to contact the office at 562/ 601-8133 and ask for Pam. Pam will be more than happy to discuss the matter with you.
Regards,
Damian Nolan