How to deal with Child Support

Introduction

So you received a scary letter from Child Support Services
and you don't know what to do? Read on...

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You'll Need

• Two forms of picture I.D.
• Black or blue ink pen.

Steps

1

Step One

You probably received a letter called a Summons & Complaint by which someone is naming you the father or mother of their child. First you need to completely read all of the papers and documents you received which should answer many of your questions.

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Step Two

Now that you know who is filing the complaint naming you the father/mother of their child, you must file an "Answer" in court. An "Answer" is a formal legal response to the Summons & Complaint in which you either acknowledge or contest paternity. So in other words you will be telling Child Support Services that you either agree or disagree that you are the father/mother of the child.

3

Step Three

To file the "Answer" in court you must fill out the document provided by the Child Support Services. the form should indicate that you are filing an "Answer" to the complaint. Do not worry if you are unable to find this document or if you are unsure how to complete it because you will need to go to your nearest Family Law Facilitators Office where they will tell you how to get another document to file an "Answer" or help you fill out the one you already have and file it in court.

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Step Four

Find the nearest Family Law Facilitators Office in Los Angeles County by copying and pasting the web address provided below to your browser address bar, and go there as soon as possible. You have 45 days to respond to the Summons & Complaint if you received it in the mail and 30 days if someone gave it to you personally. To be on the safe side just assume you have 30 days!

http://www.lasuperiorcourt.org/familylaw/pdfs/facilitatorloc.pdf

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Step Five

Eventually you will receive a response scheduling you for a date to appear in court or for genetic testing. Make sure you do not miss or you may lose by default! The possibility of paying child support for 18yrs.is a good incentive to not miss don't you think? Good luck!