Child Support for Grandparents

Child Support Lawyer

Child Support for Grandparents

The court in County of San Diego Department of Child Support Services v. C.A. decided that in some circumstances, grandparents are entitled to child support.

The parents in this case were divorced in Hawaii. Custody was granted to the father. The mother had visitation and was ordered to pay child support. The father moved with their minor child to Maryland. The mother moved to California. While the minor child and father were in Maryland, the paternal grandmother sought custody of the minor child. The paternal grandmother filed a motion in a Maryland court seeking custody of the minor child. Mother did not challenge the order. The Maryland court awarded the grandmother custody.

The grandmother requested child support in Maryland. On behalf of the grandmother, the State of Maryland, through the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (also known as UIFSA), requested that the mother pay child support to the grandmother. The family court in California dismissed the action, because California Family Code Section 3951 states that parents are not obligated to pay support to relatives who voluntarily care for their minor children.

The Department of Child Support Services appealed the order. It argued that when a relative obtains an order to care for a minor child, then the custody arrangement is no longer voluntary. Therefore, the grandmother is entitled to child support. The appellate court agreed and ordered the trial court to determine the amount of support.

California Family Code Section 3951(a): A parent is not bound to compensate the other parent, or a relative, for the voluntary support of the parent’s child, without an agreement for compensation.

If you need legal advice and are looking for a family law lawyer in Orange County to address a dissolution issue such as child support or any other divorce matter such as legal separation, annulment, custody, spousal support and/or property division, please consider Treviño Law in your divorce attorney search. We are located in Laguna Hills right off Lake Forest exit to both the 405 and 5 freeway.

Although the posting of this information can be considered free legal advice for a divorce in Orange County, it does not address other factors which may play a significant role in a particular dissolution. Circumstances in your divorce may alter the results in your dissolution.

Please note that this legal advice does not establish a family law attorney-client relationship. This is a legal advertisement for Treviño Law, Inc.

Tips for Leaving an Abusive Relationship, Getting a Restraining Order and Building Your Life Again.

Get Your FREE Book Copy!

15 Ways to Protect Yourself When Leaving an Abusive Relationship

Mail a copy?

A guide to help make decisions about your divorce, and get peace of mind—all without leaving your home.

Get Your FREE Book Copy!

Divorce Lawyers

Trevino Law

Whether you’re dealing with legal affairs or planning for the future of your family, our Orange County family law and estate planning attorneys can help you take control of your life.

Popup Form