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The California FL 615 form serves as a crucial tool in family law, particularly when it comes to establishing child support obligations. This form is utilized by parents and guardians to outline their agreements regarding financial responsibilities for their children. It allows for a formal stipulation, which can be submitted to the court without the need for a physical appearance. Key components of the FL 615 include details about the parties involved—such as the petitioner, respondent, and any other parents or parties—and the specific child support amounts agreed upon. Additionally, it addresses provisions for health insurance, childcare costs, and other related expenses, ensuring that both parents are aware of their obligations. The form also incorporates the necessary legal advisements and waivers, confirming that the parties understand their rights before entering into the agreement. By completing this form, parents can facilitate a smoother legal process while prioritizing the best interests of their children.

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per month.

FL-615

GOVERNMENTAL AGENCY (under Family Code, §§ 17400, 17406):

FOR COURT USE ONLY

TELEPHONE NO.:

FAX NO. (Optional):

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/PARTY:

STIPULATION FOR

 

JUDGMENT

 

 

SUPPLEMENTAL JUDGMENT CASE NUMBER:

 

 

 

 

 

REGARDING PARENTAL OBLIGATIONS AND JUDGMENT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. This matter proceeded as follows:

 

 

 

By written stipulation without court appearance.

a.

 

b.

 

By court hearing, appearances as follows:

 

(1)

Date:

 

Dept:

 

Judicial Officer:

(2)

 

Petitioner/plaintiff present

 

 

Attorney present (name):

 

 

 

(3)

 

Respondent/defendant present

 

 

Attorney present (name):

 

 

 

(4)

 

Other parent/party present

 

 

Attorney present (name):

 

 

 

(5)

Local child support agency (Fam. Code, §§ 17400, 17406) by (name):

(6)

 

Other (specify):

 

 

 

 

 

c.The parent ordered to pay support is the

petitioner/plaintiff

respondent/defendant

other parent/party.

2.

3.

This order is based on the attached documents (specify):

The parties agree that:

a.The parent ordered to pay support has read and understands the Advisement and Waiver of Rights for Stipulation on page 5 of this form. The parent ordered to pay support gives up these rights and freely agrees that a judgment may be entered in accordance with this stipulation.

b. The amount of support payable by the party ordered to pay support as calculated under the guideline is: $

 

 

We agree to guideline support.

 

 

The guideline amount should be rebutted because of the following:

 

 

(1)

 

 

We have been fully informed of the guideline amount of support; we agree voluntarily to child support in the

 

 

 

 

amount of $

per month; the agreement is in the best interest of the children; the needs of the children

will be met adequately by the agreed amount; the children are not receiving public assistance; no application for public assistance is pending; and application of the guideline would be unjust and inappropriate in this case. We understand that if the order is below the guideline, no change of circumstances need be shown for the court to raise this order to the guideline amount. If the order is above the guideline, a change of circumstances will be required to modify this order.

(2) Other rebutting factors (specify):

c. The computer printout attached shows the parents’ incomes and percentage of time each parent spends with the children. The printout, which shows the calculation of child support payable, will become the court’s findings.

NOTICE: Any party required to pay child support must pay interest on overdue amounts at the legal rate, which is currently 10 percent per year.

 

 

Page 1 of 5

 

 

 

Form Adopted for Alternative Mandatory

STIPULATION FOR JUDGMENT OR SUPPLEMENTAL JUDGMENT

Family Code, §§ 17400,

Use Instead of Form FL-692

REGARDING PARENTAL OBLIGATIONS AND JUDGMENT

17402,17406

Judicial Council of California

www.courts.ca.gov

FL-615 [Rev. January 1, 2020]

(Governmental)

 

 

 

FL-615

PETITIONER/PLAINTIFF:

RESPONDENT/DEFENDANT:

OTHER PARENT/PARTY:

CASE NUMBER:

3. d.

 

Petitioner/plaintiff

 

Respondent/defendant

 

Other parent/party

are the parents of the children named in

item 3e below.

e. The parent ordered to pay support must pay current child support as follows:

Name of child

Date of birth

Monthly support amount

(1)

Mandatory additional child support.

(2)

(a) The parent ordered to pay support must pay additional monthly support for reasonable child-care costs, as follows:

 

One-half or

 

 

 

% or

 

 

(specify amount): $

 

per month of the costs

Payments must be made to the

 

other parent

 

State Disbursement Unit

 

child-care provider.

 

 

 

(b) The parent ordered to pay support must pay reasonable uninsured health-care costs for the children, as follows:

 

 

One-half or

 

 

 

% or

 

 

(specify amount): $

 

per month of the costs

Payments must be made to the

 

other parent

 

State Disbursement Unit

 

health-care provider.

 

 

 

 

Other (specify):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(3)

(4)

For a total of: $

payable on the:

day of each month

beginning (date):

 

 

The low-income adjustment applies.

The low-income adjustment does not apply because (specific reasons):

(5)Any support ordered will continue until further order of court, unless terminated by operation of law.

f.

The parent ordered to pay support

The parent receiving support must (1) provide and maintain health insurance

coverage for the children if available at no or reasonable cost, and keep the local child support agency informed of the availability of the coverage (the cost is presumed to be reasonable if it does not exceed 5 percent of gross income to add a child); (2) if health insurance is not available, provide coverage when it becomes available; (3) within 20 days of the local child support agency’s request, complete and return a health insurance form; (4) provide to the local child support agency all information and forms necessary to obtain health-care services for the children; (5) present any claim to secure payment or reimbursement to the other parent or caretaker who incurs costs for health-care services for the children; and (6) assign any rights to reimbursement to the other parent or caretaker who incurs costs for health-care services for the children. The parent ordered to provide health insurance must seek continuation of coverage for the child after the child attains the age when the child is no longer considered eligible for coverage as a dependent under the insurance contract, if the child is incapable of self- sustaining employment because of a physically or mentally disabling injury, illness, or condition and is chiefly dependent upon the parent providing health insurance for support and maintenance.

FL-615 [Rev. January 1, 2020]

STIPULATION FOR JUDGMENT OR SUPPLEMENTAL JUDGMENT

REGARDING PARENTAL OBLIGATIONS AND JUDGMENT

Page 2 of 5

(Governmental)

FL-615

PETITIONER/PLAINTIFF:

RESPONDENT/DEFENDANT:

OTHER PARENT/PARTY:

CASE NUMBER:

3. g.

The parent ordered to pay support must pay child support for the past periods and in the amounts set forth below.

Name of child

Date of birth

Period of support

Amount

(1)

(2)

(3)

Other (specify):

 

 

 

For a total of $

payable: $

on the:

day of each month

beginning (date):

 

 

 

Interest accrues on the entire principal balance owing and not on each installment as it becomes due.

h.If this is a judgment on a Supplemental Complaint, it does not modify or supersede any prior judgment or order for support or arrearages, unless specifically provided.

i.No provision of this judgment may operate to limit any right to collect the principal (total amount of unpaid support) or to charge and collect interest and penalties as allowed by law. All payments ordered are subject to modification.

j.All payments, unless specified in item 3e(1) above, must be made to the State Disbursement Unit at the address listed below (specify address):

k.An earnings assignment order is issued.

l.In the event that there is a contract between a party receiving support and a private child support collector, the party ordered to pay support must pay the fee charged by the private child support collector. This fee must not exceed 33 1/3 percent of the total amount of past due support nor may it exceed 50 percent of any fee charged by the private child support collector. The money judgment created by this provision is in favor of the private child support collector and the party receiving support,

jointly.

m.If "The parent ordered to pay support" box is checked in item 3f, a health insurance coverage assignment must issue.

n.The parents must notify the local child support agency in writing within 10 days of any change in residence or employment.

o.The Notice of Rights and Responsibilities (Health-Care Costs and Reimbursement Procedures) and Information Sheet on Changing a Child Support Order (form FL-192) is attached.

p.

 

The following person (the "other parent") is added as a party to this action (name):

q.

Other (specify):

FL-615 [Rev. January 1, 2020]

STIPULATION FOR JUDGMENT OR SUPPLEMENTAL JUDGMENT

REGARDING PARENTAL OBLIGATIONS AND JUDGMENT

Page 3 of 5

(Governmental)

FL-615

PETITIONER/PLAINTIFF:

RESPONDENT/DEFENDANT:

OTHER PARENT/PARTY:

Date:

CASE NUMBER:

(TYPE OR PRINT NAME)

Date:

(TYPE OR PRINT NAME)

Date:

(TYPE OR PRINT NAME)

Date:

(TYPE OR PRINT NAME)

Date:

(TYPE OR PRINT NAME)

Date:

(TYPE OR PRINT NAME)

Date:

(TYPE OR PRINT NAME)

(SIGNATURE OF ATTORNEY FOR LOCAL CHILD SUPPORT AGENCY)

(SIGNATURE OF PETITIONER)

(SIGNATURE OF ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER)

(SIGNATURE OF RESPONDENT)

(SIGNATURE OF ATTORNEY FOR RESPONDENT)

(SIGNATURE OF OTHER PARENT)

(SIGNATURE OF ATTORNEY FOR OTHER PARENT)

JUDGMENT

4.THE COURT SO ORDERS.

Date:

Number of pages attached:

JUDICIAL OFFICER

SIGNATURE FOLLOWS LAST ATTACHMENT

FL-615 [Rev. January 1, 2020]

STIPULATION FOR JUDGMENT OR SUPPLEMENTAL JUDGMENT

REGARDING PARENTAL OBLIGATIONS AND JUDGMENT

Page 4 of 5

(Governmental)

FL-615

PETITIONER/PLAINTIFF:

RESPONDENT/DEFENDANT:

OTHER PARENT/PARTY:

CASE NUMBER:

ADVISEMENT AND WAIVER OF RIGHTS FOR STIPULATION

1. RIGHT TO BE REPRESENTED BY A

5. ADMISSION AND WAIVER OF RIGHTS. I

8.

I agree to the terms of this

 

LAWYER. I understand that I have the right

understand that by agreeing to the terms of

 

stipulation freely and voluntarily.

 

to be represented by a lawyer of my choice

this stipulation, I am admitting that I am the

9.

I understand that the local child

 

at my expense. If I cannot afford a lawyer to

 

parent of the children named in the

 

support agency is required by state

 

represent me, I can ask the court to appoint

stipulation and I am giving up the rights

 

 

 

law to enforce the duty of support.

 

one to represent me free of charge only if I

stated above.

 

 

10.

I UNDERSTAND THAT IF I

 

dispute that I am the parent of the children

6. WHERE THE STIPULATION INCLUDES

 

named in this action and only on the issue

CHILD SUPPORT.

 

WILLFULLY FAIL TO SUPPORT

 

of parentage. I understand that the attorney

 

MY CHILDREN, CRIMINAL

 

a. I understand that I will have the duty to

 

 

for the local child support agency does not

 

PROCEEDINGS MAY BE

 

obey the support order for the children

 

 

represent me.

 

INITIATED AGAINST ME.

 

named in the stipulation until the order is

 

2. RIGHT TO A TRIAL. I understand that I

11. COLLECTION OF SUPPORT. I

 

have a right to have a judicial officer (1)

changed by the court or ended by law.

 

understand that any support I owe

 

b. I also understand that the court will

 

 

determine if I am the parent of the children

 

may be collected from any of my

 

order any support payments to be paid

 

 

named in the stipulation, (2) decide how

 

property. This collection may be

 

directly from my wages or other

 

 

much child support I must pay, and (3)

 

made by intercepting money owed

 

earnings and sent to the local child

 

 

decide how much I owe for arrearages

 

to me by the state or federal

 

support agency if one is assigned to

 

 

(unpaid support).

 

government (such as tax refunds,

 

collect the support.

 

3. RIGHT TO CONFRONT AND CROSS-

 

unemployment and disability

c. I have been advised of the amount of

 

 

EXAMINE WITNESSES. I understand that

 

benefits, and lottery winnings), by

 

in a trial any allegations made against me

guideline child support and how the

 

taking property I own, by placing a

 

must be proved. At the trial I may be

proposed child support amount was

 

lien on my property, or by any other

 

present with a lawyer when witnesses

determined.

 

lawful means.

 

testify, and I may ask them questions. I may 7. WHERE THE STIPULATION INCLUDES

12.

IF I AM REPRESENTED BY AN

 

also present evidence and witnesses.

A PROVISION FOR HEALTH

ATTORNEY, MY ATTORNEY HAS

4. RIGHT TO HAVE GENETIC TESTING

INSURANCE. I understand that I must

 

READ AND EXPLAINED TO ME

 

WHERE THE LAW PERMITS. I

keep health insurance coverage for the

 

THE TERMS OF THE

 

understand that, where the law permits,

minor children if insurance is available or

 

STIPULATION AND THIS

 

I have the right to have the court order

becomes available to me at no or

 

ADVISEMENT AND WAIVER OF

 

genetic testing. The court will decide

reasonable cost. A health insurance

 

RIGHTS, AND I UNDERSTAND

 

on the testing. The court could order that

coverage assignment/National Medical

 

THESE TERMS.

 

I pay none, some, or all of the costs of the

Support Notice may be ordered to get

 

 

 

genetic testing.

health insurance for my children.

 

 

 

 

I have read and understand the Advisement and Waiver of Rights for Stipulation; or

 

 

 

 

Attached is a translation of this Advisement and Waiver of Rights for Stipulation in (specify language):

 

 

 

 

 

 

I understand the translation.

Date:

 

I understand the translation.

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(TYPE OR PRINT NAME)

(PARTY’S SIGNATURE)

(TYPE OR PRINT NAME)

(PARTY’S SIGNATURE)

DECLARATION OF PERSON PROVIDING INTERPRETATION/TRANSLATION: The party/parties indicated below is/are unable to

read or understand this Stipulation for Judgment or Supplemental Judgment Regarding Parental Obligations and Judgment because

 

(Insert name):

 

 

 

 

's primary

 

(Insert name):

 

 

 

's primary

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

language is (specify):

 

 

 

 

language is (specify):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

and the party

 

 

has

 

has not read

the form

and the party

 

 

has

 

has not read

the form

 

 

 

stipulation translated into this language.

 

 

stipulation translated into this language.

 

 

I certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that I am competent to interpret or translate in the primary language indicated above and that I have, to the best of my ability, read to, interpreted for, or translated for the above-named party the Stipulation for Judgment or Supplemental Judgment Regarding Parental Obligations and Judgment in the party's primary language. The above-named party said the terms of this Stipulation for Judgment or Supplemental Judgment Regarding Parental Obligations and Judgment were understood by that party before signing it.

 

Date:

 

Date:

 

 

 

 

 

(TYPE OR PRINT NAME)

 

(TYPE OR PRINT NAME)

 

 

 

 

 

(SIGNATURE)

 

(SIGNATURE)

FL-615 [Rev. January 1, 2020]

STIPULATION FOR JUDGMENT OR SUPPLEMENTAL JUDGMENT

 

 

REGARDING PARENTAL OBLIGATIONS AND JUDGMENT

 

 

(Governmental)

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Form Specifications

Fact Name Details
Governing Law The FL-615 form is governed by California Family Code sections 17400 and 17406.
Purpose This form is used for stipulations regarding parental obligations and judgments in child support cases.
Parties Involved The form involves the petitioner/plaintiff, respondent/defendant, and potentially other parents or parties.
Payment Obligations It outlines child support amounts, health care costs, and the responsibilities of each parent regarding payments.

California Fl 615: Usage Guidelines

Filling out the California FL-615 form is an important step in addressing parental obligations. It is crucial to provide accurate information to ensure that the agreement is valid and enforceable. Follow these steps carefully to complete the form.

  1. Begin by entering the court name and the case number at the top of the form.
  2. Fill in the names of the parties involved in the case, including the petitioner/plaintiff, respondent/defendant, and other parent/party.
  3. Provide the contact information for the governmental agency, including telephone number, fax number (optional), and email address.
  4. In section 1, indicate how the matter proceeded, whether by written stipulation without a court appearance or by court hearing. Fill in the relevant details if applicable.
  5. Specify who is the parent ordered to pay support in section 1c.
  6. In section 2, attach any necessary documents that support your case.
  7. In section 3, state the amount of support agreed upon. Include any rebutting factors if the guideline amount is not being followed.
  8. List the names and dates of birth of the children in section 3e, along with the monthly support amounts.
  9. Detail any additional child support for child-care costs and uninsured health-care costs in section 3e(2).
  10. Complete section 3f regarding health insurance coverage for the children, including any obligations to maintain coverage.
  11. In section 3g, provide information about past support payments owed, including the names of the children, dates of birth, and amounts.
  12. Ensure that all parties sign and date the form at the end. This includes signatures from the petitioner, respondent, and any attorneys involved.
  13. Finally, review the entire form for accuracy before submitting it to the court.

After completing the FL-615 form, it will need to be filed with the appropriate court. Be sure to keep copies for your records. If you have any questions or concerns about the process, consider seeking legal assistance to guide you through the next steps.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the California FL 615 form?

The California FL 615 form, also known as the Stipulation for Judgment or Supplemental Judgment Regarding Parental Obligations and Judgment, is a legal document used in family law cases. It is primarily utilized to outline and agree upon child support obligations between parents or guardians. This form helps facilitate the establishment of a clear and enforceable support order, ensuring that the needs of the children are met while also considering the financial capabilities of the parents involved.

Who needs to complete the FL 615 form?

The FL 615 form is typically completed by parents or guardians involved in a child support case. It is particularly relevant for those who have reached an agreement on child support obligations and wish to formalize that agreement in court. Additionally, local child support agencies may also be involved in the process, especially when they are enforcing support orders on behalf of the custodial parent.

What information is required on the FL 615 form?

The form requires detailed information about the parents, including their names, contact information, and the names and birthdates of the children involved. It also necessitates the disclosure of income and the proposed child support amounts. Parents must agree on the support amount, any additional costs related to child care or health care, and how payments will be made. This comprehensive information helps the court make informed decisions regarding child support.

How does the FL 615 form address child support amounts?

The FL 615 form allows parents to agree on child support amounts, either adhering to the state guidelines or proposing a different amount based on their circumstances. If parents choose an amount that deviates from the guideline, they must provide justifications for this decision. The form also explains that if the agreed-upon amount is below the guideline, the court can later adjust it without requiring proof of changed circumstances.

What happens after submitting the FL 615 form?

Once the FL 615 form is submitted to the court, it will be reviewed by a judicial officer. If everything is in order, the court will issue a judgment based on the stipulations outlined in the form. This judgment becomes legally binding, meaning that both parents are required to adhere to the terms agreed upon, including the payment of child support and any other obligations specified.

Can the terms of the FL 615 form be modified later?

Yes, the terms outlined in the FL 615 form can be modified in the future. However, if the agreed-upon support amount is below the guideline, the court can raise it without needing to prove a change in circumstances. Conversely, if the amount is above the guideline, a change in circumstances must be demonstrated to modify the support obligation.

What are the consequences of failing to comply with the FL 615 form?

Failure to comply with the terms set forth in the FL 615 form can lead to serious legal consequences. The custodial parent may seek enforcement through the court, which can result in wage garnishment, interception of tax refunds, and other collection methods. Additionally, willfully failing to support one’s children can lead to criminal charges in some cases, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the established support obligations.

Is legal representation necessary when completing the FL 615 form?

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Many individuals fail to provide all necessary details, such as names, addresses, and case numbers. Omitting this information can delay processing and lead to complications.

  2. Incorrect Signatures: Signatures from all required parties must be present. Missing signatures can invalidate the form and require resubmission.

  3. Failure to Attach Required Documents: Individuals often neglect to include necessary attachments, such as income statements or calculations for child support. This can result in the court rejecting the form.

  4. Misunderstanding Child Support Guidelines: Some parties do not fully understand the child support guidelines. This misunderstanding can lead to incorrect amounts being reported or agreed upon.

  5. Ignoring Health Insurance Requirements: The form includes obligations related to health insurance coverage for children. Failing to address these requirements can create future legal issues.

  6. Not Updating Changes: If there are changes in residence or employment, parties must notify the local child support agency. Failing to do so can result in penalties or enforcement actions.

  7. Misunderstanding Rights and Waivers: Parties often overlook the advisement and waiver of rights section. It is crucial to understand the implications of waiving certain rights before signing the form.

Documents used along the form

The California FL-615 form is often accompanied by several other documents that help clarify and support the stipulation regarding parental obligations and judgments. Below is a list of these related forms and documents, each described briefly.

  • FL-192: Information Sheet on Changing a Child Support Order - This form provides information about the process and requirements for modifying a child support order. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parents.
  • FL-150: Income and Expense Declaration - This document is used to disclose the financial situation of each parent. It includes details about income, expenses, assets, and debts, which are crucial for determining child support amounts.
  • FL-310: Request for Order - A parent may use this form to request a court order for child support, custody, visitation, or other family law matters. It initiates a legal proceeding in family court.
  • FL-300: Notice of Motion to Modify Child Support - This form is used to notify the court and the other parent about a motion to change an existing child support order. It outlines the reasons for the requested modification.
  • FL-335: Proof of Service - This document serves as evidence that legal papers have been delivered to the other parent or party involved. Proper service is essential for court proceedings to ensure all parties are informed.
  • FL-300: Child Support Case Registry Form - This form is used to register a child support case with the local child support agency. It helps streamline the collection and management of child support payments.
  • FL-610: Stipulation to Establish or Modify Child Support - This form is used when both parents agree to establish or change the amount of child support. It formalizes their agreement for the court's approval.

These forms and documents work together with the FL-615 to ensure that all aspects of parental obligations and child support are clearly defined and legally binding. Understanding each document's purpose can help parents navigate the family law process more effectively.

Similar forms

  • California FL-610: This form is used for stipulations regarding child support and is similar to FL-615 in that it allows parties to agree on support amounts without a court hearing. Both forms facilitate a streamlined process for establishing parental obligations.
  • California FL-680: The FL-680 form is a request for an order to modify child support. Like FL-615, it addresses parental obligations, but it specifically focuses on changes to existing support orders based on new circumstances.
  • California FL-300: This form is a request for an order in family law cases. Similar to FL-615, it allows parties to present agreements to the court, but it is broader and can address various family law matters beyond child support.
  • California FL-692: This is a stipulation for judgment regarding parental obligations, much like FL-615. Both forms are designed to formalize agreements made by parents regarding child support and related issues.
  • California FL-195: This form is a notice of rights and responsibilities concerning child support. It complements FL-615 by ensuring that parties are informed of their rights while entering into stipulations regarding support obligations.
  • California FL-192: This form provides information on changing a child support order. It is similar to FL-615 in that it outlines procedures and rights related to child support modifications.
  • California FL-155: The FL-155 form is a financial statement used to disclose income and expenses. It is similar to FL-615 in that both require financial information to determine appropriate support amounts.
  • California FL-342: This form is used to request a court order for child custody and visitation. While FL-615 focuses on support, both forms are integral to establishing comprehensive parental responsibilities.
  • California FL-343: This is a request for an order regarding visitation. Similar to FL-615, it deals with parental obligations, but specifically addresses the time each parent spends with the child.
  • California FL-150: This income and expense declaration is often used in conjunction with FL-615 to provide a clear picture of a parent's financial situation when determining support obligations.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the California FL-615 form, there are important dos and don'ts to keep in mind. Following these guidelines will help ensure that your submission is accurate and complete.

  • Do read the entire form carefully before filling it out.
  • Do provide accurate and complete information for all required fields.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • Do ensure that all parties involved sign the form where indicated.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank; this may delay processing.
  • Don't use white-out or make alterations to the form; corrections should be made with a single line through the error.
  • Don't forget to check for any additional documents that may need to be attached.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The FL-615 form is only for parents who are in court.

    • This form can be used even when parties agree on child support outside of court. It allows for a stipulation to be entered without the need for a court appearance.

  • Misconception 2: Completing the FL-615 form guarantees that the child support amount will be approved.

    • While the form outlines an agreement, the court must still review and approve the stipulation. Approval is not automatic.

  • Misconception 3: The FL-615 form is only applicable to child support payments.

    • This form addresses various parental obligations, including health care costs and child care expenses, not just child support payments.

  • Misconception 4: Once the FL-615 form is signed, the terms cannot be changed.

    • Terms set forth in the FL-615 can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances. The court allows for adjustments as needed.

  • Misconception 5: The form does not require any documentation to support the claims made.

    • Parties must attach relevant documentation, such as income statements, to substantiate the claims made in the form regarding support calculations.

  • Misconception 6: The FL-615 form can be filled out by anyone without legal guidance.

    • While individuals may fill out the form themselves, it is advisable to seek legal counsel to ensure that rights are protected and the form is completed correctly.

  • Misconception 7: The FL-615 form is a one-size-fits-all solution for all custody and support issues.

    • Each situation is unique. The FL-615 must be tailored to fit the specific circumstances of the parties involved, considering the best interests of the children.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the California FL-615 form, there are several important points to keep in mind:

  • Purpose of the Form: The FL-615 form is used to establish or modify child support obligations in California.
  • Parties Involved: The form requires information about the petitioner/plaintiff, respondent/defendant, and any other parents or parties involved in the case.
  • Support Amount: The form includes a section for detailing the amount of child support, which can be based on California's guideline calculations or agreed-upon amounts.
  • Health Insurance Obligations: The parent ordered to pay support must provide health insurance for the children if it is available at a reasonable cost.
  • Interest on Overdue Payments: Any overdue child support payments will accrue interest at the legal rate, currently set at 10 percent per year.
  • Notification Requirements: Parents must notify the local child support agency of any changes in residence or employment within 10 days.

Understanding these key aspects can help ensure that the form is completed accurately and that all parties fulfill their obligations under California law.