Legal Question in Family Law in Indiana

Responsibility for Medical Care

My husband is responsible for a portion of his childrens medical care. His ex-wife does not provide us with copies of doctor bills - which she is required to do according to the courts. Two questions:

1. Is he responsible if proper documentation is not provided?

2. Would the courts make him pay for braces which are for cosmetic reasons?

Thank you


Asked on 11/14/01, 6:53 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

John Cook Dunn & Cook

Re: Responsibility for Medical Care

yes and yes.

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Answered on 11/19/01, 5:23 pm
Dorene Philpot Philpot Law Office

Re: Responsibility for Medical Care

If she doesn't supply bills, then he cannot possibly pay them.

However, this a common fight in court: She says she gave them to him and he didn't pay. He says she never gave them to him and that's why he didn't pay.

If the court order or settlement agreement calls for the payment of orthodontia expenses, he's on the hook. Courts don't want to be in the business of dealing with arguments over whether something was "necessary" or not. If the parent was ordered to pay, the child got the work done, then the parent needs to pay his portion.

Hope this helps answer your questions.

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Answered on 11/15/01, 7:36 am


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