Legal Question in Family Law in California

I am in California. My question is regarding child support. My ex-husband owes $56,000 in past due child support, and currently hardly makes his monthly obligation of $575 a month. He has great earning potential (works in nursing) but for the 14 years of my child's life has gone from one job to the next, quitting, going long periods unemployed, all to avoid paying support. I am very frustrated with the lack of enforcement by the office of child support. I would like to find a local, experienced, savvy but honest family law attorney who could assist me with aggressiive enforcement efforts. I do not have money for a retainer, but will be willing to give a portion of the arrears to the attorney based on what they can collect. He has no assets that I know of, if so are probably hidden by family. His mother supports him so he can be a deadbeat dad. Currently, the support is garnished, but he works per diem so that he can work "only so much" - and also avoid providing ordered medical and dental coverage, which my disabled daughter needs. If anyone could help me, or refer me to someone, please let me know. Thank you very much.


Asked on 6/29/11, 12:19 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

I'm afraid it is a violation of professional ethics to take a Family Law case on contingency. An attorney can agree to wait to be paid until proceedings are completed, but we are not allowed to have a "stake" in the outcome. Our retainer agreements for Family Law must require payment regardless of collection from the other party.

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Answered on 6/29/11, 12:29 pm


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