Legal Question in Family Law in California

Re: Divorce started 16 years ago

Your first question could have several answers. If no orders were taken, your case could have been dismissed because there is a five year statuet to bring matters to trial and after than the case is dismissed. If orders were taken, you should be able to get you judgment entered fairly soon (maybe one or two months) of immediately if you husband signs a stipulation. If the judge has already ruled that you have a right to a dissolution, you might be able to get your dissolution entered effective when the judge said your marriage could be dissolved. Get a copy of your court file and take it to a competent attorney, he can advise you of your best options.

Can your children's father stop you from taking them to Australia, yes its possible. Don't try to shortcut this issue, get his permission before going, or ask the court for permission. If you leave without his consent or the court's consent, you could lose custody of your kids or worse yet be charged with child stealing. Talk to an attorney who can advise you of your rights and responsibilities. Otherwise, you're playing with fire and puting your kids through some major stress.