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The California FL-600 form is a crucial document in the realm of family law, specifically concerning child support obligations. This form is initiated by the local child support agency, which files a lawsuit to establish or modify parental obligations for children named in the complaint. It identifies the parties involved, including the petitioner, respondent, and other parent, and outlines the legal expectations regarding child support payments. The form also includes a proposed judgment that may require the obligor, or the parent designated to pay support, to fulfill financial responsibilities for the children listed. If the obligor disagrees with the proposed judgment, they must respond within 30 days by filing an answer with the court. Failure to do so can result in automatic liability for child support, which may be enforced through wage garnishment or other means. Additionally, the FL-600 provides essential information about the rights and responsibilities of both parents, highlighting the importance of timely action in these matters. Understanding this form and its implications is vital for any parent involved in a child support case in California.

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FL-600

GOVERNMENTAL AGENCY (under Fam. Code, §§ 17400 and 17406):

FOR COURT USE ONLY

 

TELEPHONE NO.:

FAX NO.:

E-MAIL ADDRESS:

 

ATTORNEY FOR (Name):

 

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF

STREET ADDRESS:

MAILING ADDRESS:

CITY AND ZIP CODE:

BRANCH NAME:

PETITIONER/PLAINTIFF:

RESPONDENT/DEFENDANT:

OTHER PARENT:

SUMMONS AND

 

COMPLAINT

 

 

 

SUPPLEMENTAL COMPLAINT CASE NUMBER:

AMENDED COMPLAINT REGARDING PARENTAL OBLIGATIONS

TO (name):

The local child support agency has filed this lawsuit against you. This lawsuit says you and the other parent are the parents of each child named in this Complaint and that the obligor may be required to pay child support. The attached proposed Judgment Regarding Parental Obligations (form FL-630) names you and the other parent as parents of each child listed below and, if there is an amount stated in item 6 of the proposed Judgment, orders the obligor to pay support for these children. If you disagree with the proposed Judgment, you must file the attached Answer (form FL-610) form with the court clerk within 30 days of the date that you were served with this Complaint. If you do not file an Answer, the proposed Judgment will become a final determination that you are the parent and responsible for support. If you are required to pay child support, the payments may be taken from your pay or other property without further notice. See the attached statement of your rights and responsibilities for more information.

La agencia local que vigila la manutención de menores ha registrado la presente demanda contra usted. Esta demanda dice que usted y el otro padre son los padres de los hijos nombrados aqui y que el obligado deberá pagar manutención de menores. El propuesto FALLO RESPECTO A OBLIGACIONES PATERNAS (Gubernamental) (formulario FL-630) los nombra a usted y al otro padre como padres de cada uno de los hijos que figuran a continuación y, si se incluye una suma en el inciso 6, obliga al obligado a pagar manutención por estos hijos. Si no está de acuerdo con el FALLO propuesto, deberá registrar el formulario de RESPUESTA que se adjunta, presentándolo al actuario del tribunal dentro de 30 días después de haber recibido notificación de esta DEMANDA. Si usted no registra una RESPUESTA, el FALLO propuesto tomará efecto con una determinación final de paternidad. Si se le está exigiendo que pague manutención de menores, los pagos podrán ser deducidos de su salario o de otras pertenencias suyas sin necesidad de mandarle ninguna otra notificación. Para mayor información, vea la declaración anexa respecto a los derechos y responsabilidades que tiene.

1. The local child support agency is asking the court to issue judgment or orders for the following children:

 

 

Date of

Establish

Establish

Modify

Beginning

Name

 

Birth

Parentage

Support

Order

 

Date

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Additional children are listed on a page (labeled Attachment 1) attached to this Complaint.

Notice to person served: You are served

1.

2.

as an individual defendant/respondent. on behalf of a minor child or children.

3.

Date:

other (specify):

Clerk, by

 

, Deputy

 

 

Page 1 of 6

 

 

 

Form Adopted for Mandatory Use

SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT OR SUPPLEMENTAL

Family Code, §§ 2330.1, 17400,

Judicial Council of California

17402, 17404, 17428, 17430

COMPLAINT REGARDING PARENTAL OBLIGATIONS

FL-600 [Rev. January 1, 2020]

www.courts.ca.gov

(Governmental)

FL-600

PETITIONER/PLAINTIFF:

RESPONDENT/DEFENDANT:

OTHER PARENT:

CASE NUMBER:

2.a. The parents of the children named in item 1 are (specify name): (specify name):

b.

 

(Specify name):

 

is named as the parent of the children listed in item 1 in the declaration

 

of parentage on file with the

 

local child support agency or the

 

county welfare department.

 

 

 

c. The obligor (the parent asked to pay support) is (specify):

3.Complete the following section if support is being requested but the "Establish Parentage" box has not been checked in item 1. Please specify each child. You do not need to complete this section if a final judgment of parentage was previously entered under this case number.

a.

A voluntary declaration of parentage or paternity that has not been canceled and was signed by both parents has been forwarded to the California Department of Child Support Services for the following children (specify):

b.

The following are named as children of the marriage in a family law judgment in (specify county and state)

in case number (specify)

for the following children (specify):

c.

Judgment of parentage has previously been entered in (specify county and state)

in case number (specify)

for the following children (specify):

d.

Other (specify):

(Names of children):

FL-600 [Rev. January 1, 2020]

SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT OR SUPPLEMENTAL COMPLAINT REGARDING PARENTAL OBLIGATIONS

Page 2 of 6

(Governmental)

FL-600

PETITIONER/PLAINTIFF:

RESPONDENT/DEFENDANT:

OTHER PARENT:

CASE NUMBER:

4.a.

b.

Some or all of the children named in item 1 are receiving or have received public assistance from the following counties

(specify):

Date public assistance first paid:

5.Other (specify):

THE LOCAL CHILD SUPPORT AGENCY REQUESTS THAT:

6.

7.

a.

The court determine that the persons listed in item 2 are the parents of the children listed in item 1 for whom the "Establish Parentage" boxes have been checked.

Based on the California support guideline, the court order the obligor to pay:

$

current monthly child support based on the obligor's known income of $

per month, and, if applicable, the obligee's known income of $

per month.

b.

c.

d.

e.

8.

$

current monthly child support based on the obligor's presumed income, as provided by law.

$

additional monthly child support for the following reasons (specify):

The court issue appropriate orders for sharing the costs of child care and/or uninsured health care (specify):

Other (specify):

The court order the obligor to provide health insurance for each child named in item 1, if available at no or reasonable cost; to keep the local child support agency informed of the availability of the coverage; to complete and return, within 20 days of the local child support agency's request, a health insurance form and that a National Medical Support Notice be issued. If health insurance is not available at no or reasonable cost, that the court orders obligor to provide coverage when it becomes available. NOTICE: The obligor's employer or other person providing health insurance will be ordered to enroll the children in an appropriate health insurance plan if the obligor is found to be the parent.

9.A wage and earnings assignment be issued.

10.The court order the parents to advise the local child support agency within 10 days in writing of any change in residence or employment.

11.The court order the obligor to make all payments to (specify):

12.

The other parent be added as a party to this case.

13. Number of pages attached:

NOTICE

•Child support: The court will make orders for the support of the children upon request and submission of financial forms by the requesting party.

•If you want legal advice, contact a lawyer immediately.

•A Statement of Rights and Responsibilities is attached to this document. Please read it carefully.

Date:

(TYPE OR PRINT NAME)

(ATTORNEY FOR LOCAL CHILD SUPPORT AGENCY)

FL-600 [Rev. January 1, 2020]

SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT OR SUPPLEMENTAL COMPLAINT REGARDING PARENTAL OBLIGATIONS

Page 3 of 6

(Governmental)

FL-600

PETITIONER/PLAINTIFF:

RESPONDENT/DEFENDANT:

OTHER PARENT:

CASE NUMBER:

Hearing by Court Commissioner

This case may be referred to a court commissioner for hearing. By law, court commissioners do not have the authority to issue final orders and judgments in contested cases unless they are acting as temporary judges. The court commissioner in your case will act as a temporary judge unless, before the hearing, you or any other party objects to the commissioner acting as a temporary judge. You can object to the commissioner acting as a temporary judge in one of two ways: (1) by telling the commissioner in court, at the start of your hearing, that you object or (2) by delivering a written objection to the court clerk. You must object before the hearing in your case begins. You do not have to give a reason for your objection. The court commissioner may still hear your case to make findings and a recommended order. If you do not like the recommended order, you must object to it within 10 court days in writing (use Notice of Objection (form FL-666); otherwise, the recommended order will become a final order of the court). If you object to the recommended order, a judge will make a temporary order and set a new hearing.

Family Law Facilitator

Each superior court has a family law facilitator's office to provide education, information, and assistance to parents who have child support issues. The basic duties of the family law facilitator include:

Providing educational materials;

Distributing court forms;

Providing assistance in completing forms;

Preparing child support guideline calculations; and

Providing referrals to the local child support agency, family court services, and other community agencies.

The family law facilitator is a neutral person whose services are available to any person who is NOT represented by an attorney. Both parties in the same case may receive assistance from the family law facilitator. There is no attorney-client privilege between the family law facilitator and any person assisted by the family law facilitator, and matters discussed with the family law facilitator are not confidential. No person can be represented by the family law facilitator.

STATEMENT OF RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

NOTICE to the defendant/respondent: The proposed Judgment Regarding Parental Obligations will be entered against you unless you file your written Answer to Complaint or Supplemental Complaint Regarding Parental Obligations (form FL-610) with the court clerk within 30 days of the date you were served with the Complaint.

The proposed Judgment will be entered whether or not you have a lawyer. If you were served with a form telling you the date of a court hearing, you should go to court on that date. An order may be entered without your input if you do not attend the hearing.

AVISO para el acusado: El FALLO propuesto entrará en efecto contra usted, a menos que dentro de 30 días desde cuando recibió notificación de la DEMANDA, usted registre por escrito una RESPUESTA A DEMANDA o DEMANDA SUPLEMENTAL RESPECTO A OBLIGACIONES PATERNAS (Gubernamental) (formulario 610). El FALLO propuesto entrará en efecto contra usted, tenga o no tenga usted un abogado. Si le dieron notificación con un formulario que especifica una fecha de audiencia, usted tiene que presentarse al tribunal en esa fecha. Si no asiste a la audiencia, una orden judicial podrá emitirse sin considerar su punto de vista.

FL-600 [Rev. January 1, 2020]

SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT OR SUPPLEMENTAL COMPLAINT REGARDING PARENTAL OBLIGATIONS

Page 4 of 6

(Governmental)

FL-600

PETITIONER/PLAINTIFF:

RESPONDENT/DEFENDANT:

OTHER PARENT:

CASE NUMBER:

NOTICE TO BOTH PARENTS

The local child support agency has sued both of you to determine whether you are the parents of the children listed and if one or both of you should be ordered to pay child support. The local child support agency does not represent any individual in this lawsuit, including either parent or the children. Carefully read this statement and the other papers that you received.

You have the right to be represented by a lawyer. If you dispute that you are the parent of the children listed in the Complaint and you do not have enough money for a lawyer, you may ask the court to appoint a lawyer to represent you on the issue of parentage.

Other information about court-appointed lawyers (specify):

A blank Answer to Complaint or Supplemental Complaint Regarding Parental Obligations (form FL-610) is included in the papers that were served on you. If you did not receive an Answer form or if you would like another copy, you may get one from the local child support agency, the court clerk's office, or the family law facilitator. The family law facilitator can assist you in filling out the Answer form. You must file your Answer form with the court clerk within 30 days of the date you were served with the Complaint whether or not you obtain an attorney.

Settling Out of Court

You may contact the local child support agency to try to work out a settlement agreement. However, you must still file an Answer form within 30 days. If you and the local child support agency can reach an agreement regarding the requests made in the Complaint, you may sign a settlement agreement called a stipulation. By signing a stipulation, you are agreeing to give up your rights explained in this statement, you are agreeing that you are the parent of the children listed in the Complaint, and you are agreeing to obey all of the terms of the stipulation. The stipulation will become a court order that you must obey.

Going to Court

If you file your Answer form, you have the right to a court hearing, to subpoena witnesses, to ask questions of any witness against you, and to present evidence on your behalf. Genetic testing may be performed if the defendant questions parentage of the children listed in the Complaint. If the defendant refuses to cooperate in the genetic testing process, the issue of parentage may be resolved against the defendant. The costs of the genetic testing may be charged to one of you.

Earnings Assignment

All orders for support must contain an earnings assignment. If you are obligated to pay support, this assignment will require your employer or other payor to deduct support payments from your salary or earnings and send the payments to the local child support agency. Your employer may also be required to enroll your children in a health insurance plan and deduct the cost from your salary or earnings.

Any amounts you owe may be collected from your property, whether or not you are current in your payments toward past due support. Collection may be made by taking money owed to you by the state or federal government (such as tax refunds, unemployment and disability benefits, and lottery winnings), by taking property you own, by placing a lien on your property, or by any other lawful means. You may be fined or imprisoned if you fail to pay support as ordered.

If the local child support agency does not know how much money the obligor (parent asked to pay support) earns, the obligor is presumed to earn enough money to pay the amounts stated in item 6b of the proposed Judgment Regarding Parental Obligations (form FL-630).

FL-600 [Rev. January 1, 2020]

SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT OR SUPPLEMENTAL COMPLAINT REGARDING PARENTAL OBLIGATIONS

Page 5 of 6

(Governmental)

FL-600

PETITIONER/PLAINTIFF:

RESPONDENT/DEFENDANT:

OTHER PARENT:

CASE NUMBER:

Other Important Information

Both parents should tell the local child support agency everything they know about the other parent's earnings and assets.

The defendant is always a party to this action. If the other parent has requested or is receiving services from the local child support agency, that parent will become a party to the lawsuit filed by the local child support agency after the initial support order or medical support order is entered by the court. After the other parent has become a party to the lawsuit, either parent may then ask the court to decide issues concerning support, custody, visitation, and restraining orders (domestic violence). No other issues may be raised in this lawsuit. Either parent may go to court to modify the court order. The local child support agency cannot bring proceedings to establish or modify custody, visitation, or restraining orders.

After the other parent has become a party to the lawsuit, either parent may go to court to enforce the existing order against the other, but must first notify the local child support agency as required by law. The local child support agency is allowed 30 days to determine whether or not a parent will be permitted to proceed with the enforcement action against the other parent. The local child support agency may deny a parent permission to proceed if it is currently taking enforcement action or if the action by a parent would interfere with an investigation. If the local child support agency does not respond to the notice by the parent seeking enforcement within 30 days or if the local child support agency notifies the parent seeking enforcement that the enforcement action can proceed, the parent may then file the enforcement action as long as all support is paid through the local child support agency.

If the custodial person receives public assistance, the local child support agency may agree to settle any parentage or support issue in this lawsuit without providing advance notice to the custodial person. A child support agency may not settle any child support issue without the consent of any parent who is an applicant for child support services and who does not receive public assistance.

The local child support agency is required, under section 466(a)(13) of the Social Security Act, to place in the records pertaining to child support the social security number of any individual who is subject to a divorce decree, support order, or parentage determination or acknowledgment. This information is mandatory and will be kept on file at the local child support agency.

Your family law facilitator is available to help you with any questions you may have about the above information. You can reach your family law facilitator by telephone at:

or in person at:

For more information on finding a lawyer or family law facilitator, see the California Courts Online Self-Help Center at www.courts.ca.gov/selfhelp.

FL-600 [Rev. January 1, 2020]

SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT OR SUPPLEMENTAL

 

 

COMPLAINT REGARDING PARENTAL OBLIGATIONS

 

 

(Governmental)

For your protection and privacy, please press the Clear

 

 

 

 

This Form button after you have printed the form.

Print this form

 

Save this form

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Form Specifications

Fact Name Details
Governing Law The FL-600 form is governed by Family Code sections 17400 and 17406.
Purpose This form initiates a lawsuit regarding parental obligations, specifically child support.
Filing Deadline Respondents must file an Answer (form FL-610) within 30 days of being served to contest the proposed judgment.
Judgment Implications If no Answer is filed, the proposed judgment becomes final, establishing parentage and support obligations.
Child Support Collection Child support payments can be deducted from the obligor's wages or property without further notice.
Family Law Facilitator Each superior court has a family law facilitator available to assist parents with child support issues.

California Fl 600: Usage Guidelines

After receiving the California FL 600 form, it's important to fill it out accurately and completely. This form is used in cases involving child support and parental obligations. Follow the steps below to ensure you complete it correctly.

  1. Begin by entering the telephone number, fax number, and email address of the governmental agency.
  2. Fill in the attorney's name if applicable, along with the superior court name, county, street address, mailing address, city, and zip code.
  3. Identify the petitioner/plaintiff, respondent/defendant, and the other parent involved in the case.
  4. Provide the case number assigned to your case.
  5. In the section regarding children, list the names and birth dates of each child for whom support is being requested.
  6. Complete the section about the parents of the children. Specify the names of both parents and indicate if there is a declaration of parentage on file.
  7. If applicable, fill out any information regarding public assistance received by the children.
  8. In the section requesting the court's determination, specify the amount of monthly child support being requested based on known income.
  9. Indicate if additional orders are needed for child care costs, health insurance, or other relevant matters.
  10. Count the number of pages attached to the complaint and write that number in the designated area.
  11. Sign and date the form at the bottom, ensuring all information is accurate.

Once you have completed the form, make sure to file it with the court clerk within the required timeframe. Keep a copy for your records. If you have any questions or need assistance, consider reaching out to a family law facilitator or legal professional.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the California FL-600 form?

The California FL-600 form is a legal document used by local child support agencies to initiate a lawsuit regarding parental obligations. This form serves to establish parentage and determine child support responsibilities for children named within the complaint. It is essential for ensuring that both parents are held accountable for their financial responsibilities toward their children.

Who files the FL-600 form?

The FL-600 form is typically filed by a local child support agency on behalf of the state. This agency acts to ensure that children receive the financial support they need from their parents. The agency will submit the form to the court to start the legal process concerning child support obligations.

What happens after I receive the FL-600 form?

Upon receiving the FL-600 form, you are officially served with a lawsuit. This document outlines the claims made against you regarding your parental obligations. It is crucial to read it carefully. You have 30 days from the date of service to file a response, known as an Answer (form FL-610), with the court clerk if you disagree with the claims made in the complaint.

What if I do not respond to the FL-600 form?

If you fail to respond within the specified 30 days, the proposed judgment regarding your parental obligations may be entered against you without your input. This means that you could be legally recognized as the parent responsible for child support, and the court may issue orders for payments that could be deducted from your earnings without further notice.

Can I contest the claims made in the FL-600 form?

Yes, you have the right to contest the claims. If you believe that the allegations regarding parentage or support are incorrect, you should file your Answer (form FL-610) with the court. This allows you to present your case, and you may request a hearing where you can provide evidence and question witnesses.

What support information is included in the FL-600 form?

The FL-600 form includes details about the children for whom support is being requested, as well as information about the parents involved. It specifies whether public assistance has been provided for the children and outlines the local child support agency's requests for child support amounts based on the obligor's income. Additionally, it may include requests for health insurance coverage for the children.

What is the role of the family law facilitator?

The family law facilitator is a neutral party available in each superior court to assist parents who are dealing with child support issues. They provide educational materials, help fill out forms, and offer guidance on child support calculations. Their services are available to individuals who do not have legal representation, ensuring that everyone has access to necessary information and support.

What should I do if I need legal advice regarding the FL-600 form?

If you require legal advice, it is advisable to contact an attorney as soon as possible. The local child support agency does not represent individual parents in these cases. An attorney can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and represent your interests effectively in court.

Common mistakes

  1. Missing Information: Failing to complete all required fields can lead to delays. Each section of the FL-600 form must be filled out accurately.

  2. Incorrect Dates: Entering the wrong dates for child birth or other important events can create confusion. Ensure all dates are correct and match supporting documents.

  3. Not Providing Supporting Documents: Forgetting to attach necessary documents, like the proposed Judgment Regarding Parental Obligations, can result in the court not processing your case.

  4. Inaccurate Income Reporting: Misstating your income or the income of the other parent can lead to incorrect child support calculations. Always provide truthful and precise information.

  5. Ignoring Deadlines: Failing to file your Answer within 30 days can lead to a default judgment against you. Keep track of all deadlines to avoid this outcome.

  6. Not Understanding Legal Terms: Overlooking the meaning of terms used in the form can lead to misunderstandings. Take time to read and understand each section.

  7. Inconsistent Information: Providing conflicting information in different sections of the form can raise red flags. Ensure consistency throughout.

  8. Skipping Signatures: Forgetting to sign the form can halt the process. Always double-check that all necessary signatures are included.

  9. Failing to Communicate Changes: Not informing the local child support agency of any changes in residence or employment can complicate matters. It’s crucial to keep them updated.

Documents used along the form

The California FL-600 form plays a crucial role in establishing parental obligations regarding child support. However, it is often accompanied by several other important documents that help clarify responsibilities and rights. Understanding these forms can significantly impact the outcome of child support cases. Below is a list of six common documents used alongside the FL-600 form, along with a brief description of each.

  • FL-610: Answer to Complaint or Supplemental Complaint - This form allows the respondent to formally respond to the allegations made in the FL-600. Filing this document within 30 days is essential to contest the claims made against them.
  • FL-630: Proposed Judgment Regarding Parental Obligations - This document outlines the proposed orders for child support and establishes the obligations of the parents. It is crucial for both parties to review this carefully, as it may become a final judgment if not contested.
  • FL-666: Notice of Objection - If a party disagrees with the recommended order from a court commissioner, this form allows them to formally object. Timely submission is key to ensuring that a judge will review the case.
  • FL-640: Stipulation to Establish or Modify Child Support - This form is used when both parents agree on the terms of child support. Signing this document can expedite the process and create a legally binding agreement.
  • FL-685: Income and Expense Declaration - This form provides the court with a detailed account of each parent's financial situation. It is critical for determining appropriate child support amounts based on actual income and expenses.
  • FL-570: Request for Order - This form is used to request a court hearing for matters related to child support, custody, or visitation. Filing this request is essential for parents seeking to modify existing orders or address new issues.

Being familiar with these documents can empower parents as they navigate the complexities of child support cases. Each form serves a specific purpose and can significantly influence the legal proceedings. It is always advisable to seek guidance from a legal professional to ensure that all forms are completed accurately and submitted on time.

Similar forms

The California FL-600 form is used in child support cases and has similarities with several other legal documents. Here is a list of ten documents that share characteristics with the FL-600 form:

  • FL-610: Answer to Complaint or Supplemental Complaint Regarding Parental Obligations - This form is filed by the respondent to contest the claims made in the FL-600. It serves as a formal response to the lawsuit.
  • FL-630: Judgment Regarding Parental Obligations - This document outlines the court's orders regarding child support obligations and is often attached to the FL-600 as a proposed judgment.
  • FL-150: Income and Expense Declaration - This form provides detailed information about an individual's financial situation, which is crucial for determining child support amounts.
  • FL-155: Financial Statement (Simplified) - Similar to the FL-150, this form offers a simplified way to present financial information, often used in less complex cases.
  • FL-300: Request for Order - This document is used to request specific orders from the court, such as modifications to child support, and can be related to the issues raised in the FL-600.
  • FL-341: Child Custody and Visitation Application - This form is used to request orders regarding child custody and visitation, often filed alongside the FL-600 in family law cases.
  • FL-200: Petition to Establish Parental Relationship - This form is used to initiate a case to establish paternity and is related to the parentage issues addressed in the FL-600.
  • FL-220: Response to Petition to Establish Parental Relationship - This document is the respondent's formal reply to the petition and addresses the claims made in the FL-200.
  • FL-670: Notice of Motion to Modify Child Support - This form is used to request changes to existing child support orders, which may stem from the issues raised in the FL-600.
  • FL-678: Notice of Motion for Contempt - This document is filed when one parent believes the other has violated a court order, often related to child support obligations outlined in the FL-600.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the California FL-600 form, it is important to adhere to certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Below is a list of things you should and shouldn't do during this process.

  • Do read the entire form carefully before starting to fill it out.
  • Do provide accurate information regarding all parties involved, including names and addresses.
  • Do check all boxes that apply to your situation, especially regarding parental obligations.
  • Do file your Answer form within 30 days if you disagree with the proposed Judgment.
  • Don't leave any sections blank unless instructed to do so.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing it for errors or omissions.
  • Don't ignore the attached statement of rights and responsibilities; read it thoroughly.

Following these guidelines can help prevent delays or complications in your case. Ensure that you understand the implications of the information you provide on the FL-600 form.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The FL-600 form is only for mothers.

    • This form applies to both parents, regardless of gender. It is used to establish child support obligations for all parents involved.

  • Misconception 2: Filling out the FL-600 means you automatically have to pay child support.

    • Completing the form does not mean you are obligated to pay support. It initiates a legal process to determine parental obligations.

  • Misconception 3: You must have a lawyer to fill out the FL-600.

    • While having legal representation can be helpful, it is not required. You can fill out the form on your own.

  • Misconception 4: The local child support agency represents individual parents.

    • The agency does not represent either parent. Its role is to enforce child support laws and ensure compliance.

  • Misconception 5: You can ignore the FL-600 form and the lawsuit.

    • Ignoring the form can lead to a default judgment against you, meaning you could be ordered to pay support without your input.

  • Misconception 6: Once filed, the FL-600 cannot be changed or contested.

    • You have the right to contest the claims made in the form by filing an Answer within the specified timeframe.

  • Misconception 7: The FL-600 form is only for establishing paternity.

    • While it can establish paternity, the primary purpose is to address child support obligations.

  • Misconception 8: Child support payments are only based on the paying parent's income.

    • The court may also consider the receiving parent's income when determining the amount of child support.

  • Misconception 9: You will receive a notice before child support is deducted from your paycheck.

    • If ordered to pay support, deductions can begin without further notice, so it’s essential to respond promptly to the FL-600.

  • Misconception 10: The FL-600 process is quick and straightforward.

    • The process can be complex and may take time, depending on the circumstances of the case and the responses from both parents.

Key takeaways

  • The California FL-600 form is essential for cases involving child support, as it initiates a lawsuit by the local child support agency against a parent.

  • Parents named in the complaint must respond within 30 days by filing an Answer (form FL-610) to avoid automatic judgment against them.

  • Failure to file an Answer can lead to a final determination of parentage and support obligations, meaning the obligor may be required to pay child support without further notice.

  • The form includes sections for listing children involved, establishing parentage, and detailing any public assistance received, which can affect support calculations.

  • It's advisable to seek legal assistance, especially when disputing parentage or support obligations, as the local child support agency does not represent individual parents.