What is the purpose of the California FL 455 form?
The California FL 455 form is used to request a stay of service of an earnings assignment order in family law cases. This form allows individuals to apply for a temporary halt on the enforcement of support payments, typically due to specific circumstances that could cause undue hardship.
Who can file the FL 455 form?
Any party involved in a family law case, including the petitioner, respondent, or other parent, can file the FL 455 form. It is essential that the individual filing the form has a legitimate reason for requesting the stay of the earnings assignment order.
What reasons can be provided to request a stay?
Several reasons can be cited when requesting a stay. These include having made timely support payments for the past 12 months, posting a cash bond with the court, having a written agreement with the support recipient, or if the local child support agency has been unable to deliver payments due to a lack of address notification from the recipient.
What is required to prove hardship?
If claiming that the service of the earnings assignment would cause extraordinary hardship, the applicant must provide clear and convincing evidence of this hardship at the hearing. Specific details outlining the nature of the hardship should be included in the application.
What happens if the stay is granted?
If the court grants the stay, it will remain in effect until a specified termination date or until the court orders otherwise. The stay prevents the enforcement of the earnings assignment order during this period.
How can a stay be terminated?
A stay can be terminated by filing a request with the court, which may include reasons such as missed support payments or a change in circumstances that negates the need for the stay. A hearing will be required to address the termination of the stay.
What is the process for serving the FL 455 form?
The FL 455 form must be served by mailing a copy to the other party involved in the case. The individual serving the form must complete a proof of service section, declaring that the form was mailed properly and specifying the date and location of the mailing.
Is there a hearing required for this application?
A hearing is generally required for the court to consider the application for a stay, especially if it is made separately from a hearing on support. The applicant must obtain a hearing date from the clerk and provide notice to the involved parties.
What should be included with the FL 455 form?
When submitting the FL 455 form, any supporting documentation should be attached. This may include written agreements with the other party, proof of payments made, or statements from employers or agencies involved in the support process.