Get California Fl 615 Form

Get California Fl 615 Form

The California FL 615 form is a legal document used in family law cases to establish or modify child support obligations. This form facilitates agreements between parents regarding financial responsibilities for their children, ensuring that their needs are met. To begin the process of filling out the FL 615 form, please click the button below.

Structure

The California FL 615 form serves as a vital tool in family law, specifically addressing parental obligations and child support judgments. This form is typically used in cases where parents reach an agreement regarding child support without the need for a court appearance, streamlining the process for both parties involved. It outlines key components such as the identities of the petitioner, respondent, and other parties, ensuring that all relevant individuals are acknowledged. The form details the amount of child support to be paid, which can be based on state guidelines or agreed upon by the parents, along with provisions for additional costs related to child care and health care. Importantly, it includes sections that address the rights of the parties, including the right to legal representation and the right to a trial, emphasizing the significance of informed consent in the agreement. Furthermore, the FL 615 form stipulates the responsibilities of each parent, such as maintaining health insurance for the children and notifying the local child support agency of any changes in circumstances. By providing a structured approach to child support agreements, this form aims to protect the interests of children while facilitating cooperation between parents.

California Fl 615 Preview

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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)

For your protection and privacy, please press the Clear

 

 

 

 

This Form button after you have printed the form.

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Document Data

Fact Name Description
Governing Laws The California FL 615 form is governed by Family Code sections 17400 and 17406, which pertain to child support obligations and the responsibilities of parents.
Purpose of the Form This form is used to establish a stipulation for judgment regarding parental obligations, specifically addressing child support agreements between parties involved in a family law case.
Parties Involved The form includes sections for the petitioner/plaintiff, respondent/defendant, and any other parent or party involved, ensuring all relevant individuals are acknowledged in the agreement.
Child Support Calculation The FL 615 requires parties to agree on a child support amount, which may be based on guideline calculations, and allows for rebuttals if parties believe the guideline amount is unjust in their specific circumstances.

How to Use California Fl 615

Filling out the California FL-615 form requires careful attention to detail. This form is essential for establishing agreements regarding parental obligations and support. Before starting, ensure you have all necessary information at hand, including details about the parents, children, and any financial agreements. Below are the steps to complete the form accurately.

  1. Begin by entering the governmental agency information, including the agency's name, telephone number, fax number (if applicable), and email address.
  2. Fill in the Superior Court of California details, including the county, street address, mailing address, city, and zip code.
  3. Provide the branch name of the court where the form will be submitted.
  4. Identify the petitioner/plaintiff, respondent/defendant, and any other parent/party involved in the case.
  5. Enter the case number assigned to your matter.
  6. Indicate how the matter proceeded, either by written stipulation without court appearance or by court hearing. If there was a hearing, list the date, department, and judicial officer's name.
  7. Specify who is ordered to pay support (petitioner/plaintiff, respondent/defendant, or other parent/party).
  8. Attach any relevant documents that support your stipulation.
  9. Confirm that the parent ordered to pay support has read and understood the Advisement and Waiver of Rights.
  10. Enter the amount of support agreed upon, ensuring it reflects the guideline calculations. If rebutting the guideline amount, provide reasons.
  11. List the names and dates of birth of the children involved, along with the monthly support amounts.
  12. Detail any additional support required for child-care costs and uninsured health-care costs, specifying the amounts and payment arrangements.
  13. State when the support payments are due each month and any relevant conditions regarding low-income adjustments.
  14. Indicate responsibilities regarding health insurance coverage for the children.
  15. List any past due support amounts and specify payment arrangements.
  16. Sign and date the form where indicated, ensuring all parties involved have also signed.
  17. Attach any additional pages if necessary and indicate the number of pages attached.

Once the form is completed, it is advisable to review it thoroughly for accuracy before submission. The next step involves filing the form with the appropriate court, where it will be processed and entered into the court's records. Following this, you may receive further instructions or notifications regarding your case.

Key Facts about California Fl 615

What is the purpose of the California FL-615 form?

The California FL-615 form is used to establish a stipulation for judgment regarding parental obligations, specifically related to child support. It serves as a legal agreement between parents or parties involved in a child support case, outlining the terms of support payments, health insurance responsibilities, and other related obligations.

Who needs to fill out the FL-615 form?

Typically, the FL-615 form is filled out by the petitioner or plaintiff and the respondent or defendant in a child support case. This may also include other parents or parties involved in the case. All parties must agree to the terms outlined in the form.

What information is required on the FL-615 form?

The form requires details such as the names of the petitioner, respondent, and other parents or parties involved, case number, and specific child support amounts. It also includes sections for documenting any agreements about health insurance coverage and additional child-care costs.

How is child support calculated in the FL-615 form?

Child support is typically calculated based on California's guideline amounts. The form allows parties to agree on a support amount that may differ from the guideline, provided they can justify why the guideline amount is inappropriate. This justification must be clearly stated in the form.

What happens if a parent fails to make child support payments?

If a parent fails to make the required child support payments, interest accrues on overdue amounts at a legal rate, currently set at 10 percent per year. Additionally, the local child support agency may take various actions to collect the owed support, including wage garnishment or intercepting government benefits.

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

Yes, the terms outlined in the FL-615 form can be modified. However, if the support amount is below the guideline, the court may raise it to the guideline amount without requiring a change in circumstances. If the amount is above the guideline, a change in circumstances must be demonstrated to modify the order.

What is the role of the local child support agency in this process?

The local child support agency plays a crucial role in enforcing child support obligations. They can assist in the collection of payments, ensure compliance with health insurance requirements, and provide necessary information to both parents regarding their rights and responsibilities.

What rights do parents give up by signing the FL-615 form?

By signing the FL-615 form, parents acknowledge that they understand their rights, including the right to legal representation, the right to a trial, and the right to contest paternity if applicable. They agree to the terms of the stipulation and give up these rights in favor of the agreed-upon support arrangement.

What should parties do if they have questions about the FL-615 form?

If parties have questions about the FL-615 form, it is advisable to seek legal counsel. Understanding the implications of the stipulation is crucial before signing. Additionally, local child support agencies can provide guidance and assistance with the form and the child support process.

Common mistakes

Filling out the California FL-615 form can be a straightforward process, but many people make common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications. One frequent error is failing to provide accurate contact information. The form requires a telephone number, fax number, and email address. Omitting or incorrectly entering these details can hinder communication with the court or child support agency.

Another mistake often made is not specifying the correct parties involved in the case. It's crucial to clearly identify the petitioner, respondent, and any other parents or parties. Misidentifying these individuals can lead to legal complications and confusion in future proceedings.

Many individuals overlook the importance of attaching the necessary supporting documents. The FL-615 form requires that you specify which documents support your case. Failing to include these attachments can result in the court rejecting the form or delaying the process.

Another common issue arises from the calculations of child support amounts. People sometimes provide incorrect figures or fail to agree on a guideline amount. It’s essential to accurately calculate and document these amounts, as errors can lead to disputes and potential legal repercussions.

Additionally, some individuals neglect to read and understand the Advisement and Waiver of Rights section. This part of the form outlines critical rights that may be waived by signing. Ignoring this section can lead to unintended consequences, including a lack of legal recourse in the future.

People often forget to sign the form. Signatures are required from all parties involved, and without them, the form will not be considered valid. This oversight can cause significant delays in the processing of the case.

Another mistake is failing to provide a clear start date for support payments. The form asks for the date when payments begin, and leaving this blank can lead to confusion about when obligations commence.

Some individuals also make the mistake of not notifying the local child support agency of any changes in residence or employment. This notification must occur within ten days of any changes. Failing to do so can complicate the enforcement of support orders.

Lastly, misunderstanding the implications of the low-income adjustment can lead to issues. Some may incorrectly assume that this adjustment automatically applies without providing sufficient justification. It’s important to clearly state whether this adjustment applies and why.

By avoiding these common mistakes, individuals can ensure a smoother process when completing the California FL-615 form, ultimately leading to more effective management of parental obligations and support judgments.

Documents used along the form

The California FL-615 form, known as the Stipulation for Judgment or Supplemental Judgment Regarding Parental Obligations and Judgment, is often accompanied by several other important documents. Each of these forms serves a unique purpose in the legal process surrounding child support and parental responsibilities. Understanding these forms can help you navigate your legal obligations more effectively.

  • FL-192: Information Sheet on Changing a Child Support Order - This document provides essential information about how to modify an existing child support order. It outlines the process, necessary forms, and what factors the court considers when evaluating a request for modification.
  • FL-150: Income and Expense Declaration - This form is used to disclose your financial situation, including income, expenses, and assets. It helps the court determine the appropriate amount of child support based on your financial capabilities.
  • FL-300: Request for Order - If you need to make changes to existing court orders, this form allows you to formally request modifications. It can be used for child support, custody, visitation, and more.
  • FL-341: Child Custody and Visitation Order - This form outlines the custody arrangement and visitation schedule for children involved in a case. It is essential for establishing clear guidelines for parenting time.
  • FL-610: Child Support Case Registry Form - This document is used to register child support cases with the local child support agency. It helps ensure that all parties involved are tracked and payments are processed correctly.
  • FL-430: Child Support Information Sheet - This form provides information about child support laws, the calculation process, and resources available to parents. It serves as a helpful guide for understanding your rights and responsibilities.
  • FL-640: Notice of Rights and Responsibilities - This notice informs parents of their rights and responsibilities regarding child support and health care costs. It ensures that all parties are aware of their obligations under the law.
  • FL-695: Stipulation for Judgment Regarding Child Support - Similar to FL-615, this form specifically addresses child support agreements. It is used when both parties agree on the terms of child support without needing a court hearing.

Understanding these accompanying forms can empower you to manage your case more effectively. Each document plays a vital role in ensuring that parental obligations are met and that the best interests of the children are prioritized. Always consider seeking legal advice if you have questions about your specific situation or the use of these forms.

Similar forms

The California FL-615 form, which is used for stipulations regarding parental obligations and judgments, shares similarities with several other legal documents. Below are five documents that are comparable to the FL-615 form, along with an explanation of how they are similar:

  • FL-680 - Stipulation to Establish or Modify Child Support: Like the FL-615, this form is used to agree on child support amounts without a court hearing. Both documents require the parties to acknowledge their understanding of their rights and responsibilities regarding child support.
  • FL-300 - Request for Order: This form is similar in that it initiates a request for court orders related to family law matters. Both documents allow parties to present their agreements or requests concerning child support and custody arrangements.
  • FL-692 - Stipulation for Judgment: The FL-692 is specifically designed for stipulating judgments in family law cases. It shares the same purpose as the FL-615 in formalizing agreements between parents regarding child support and obligations.
  • FL-195 - Information Sheet on Changing a Child Support Order: This document provides guidance on modifying existing child support orders. Similar to the FL-615, it addresses the circumstances under which support amounts can be changed, ensuring that both parties are informed of their rights.
  • FL-192 - Notice of Rights and Responsibilities: This form outlines the rights and responsibilities of parents regarding child support and health care costs. It complements the FL-615 by ensuring that both parties understand the implications of their stipulations and obligations.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the California FL 615 form, it is essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Below is a list of things to do and avoid during this process.

  • Do read the entire form carefully before starting to fill it out.
  • Do provide complete and accurate information for all required fields.
  • Do sign and date the form in the designated areas.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • Do check for any additional documents that may need to be attached.
  • Don't leave any sections blank unless instructed to do so.
  • Don't use correction fluid or tape to alter any information on the form.

By adhering to these guidelines, individuals can help facilitate a smoother process in their legal matters related to parental obligations and judgments.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the California FL 615 form can lead to confusion for those involved in child support agreements. Here are five common misconceptions explained:

  • The FL 615 form is only for court appearances. Many believe that this form must be filed only when appearing in court. In reality, it can also be completed and submitted by written stipulation without a court appearance.
  • All child support agreements must strictly follow the guideline amount. While the guideline amount serves as a baseline, parties can agree to a different amount. They must, however, provide valid reasons for deviating from the guideline.
  • The form does not address healthcare costs. Some think that the FL 615 form only covers child support payments. In fact, it includes provisions for uninsured healthcare costs and mandates that the parent ordered to pay support must maintain health insurance for the children if available.
  • Once signed, the agreement cannot be modified. This is a common misunderstanding. The FL 615 form allows for modifications to support payments under certain circumstances, especially if there is a significant change in the financial situation of either parent.
  • Interest on overdue child support is not applicable. Many assume that overdue payments do not accrue interest. However, any overdue child support amounts do indeed accrue interest at a legal rate, currently set at 10 percent per year.

Key takeaways

  • Understand the Purpose: The California FL-615 form is designed for parents to agree on child support obligations without needing a court appearance. It serves as a legal document outlining the terms of support and responsibilities.

  • Complete All Sections: Ensure that every relevant section of the form is filled out completely. This includes details about the parties involved, the amount of support, and any additional obligations such as health insurance.

  • Review the Rights: Both parties must acknowledge and waive certain rights, such as the right to a trial or to be represented by an attorney. Understanding these rights is crucial before signing the stipulation.

  • Follow Up on Payments: Payments must be made to the State Disbursement Unit, and any overdue amounts will incur interest. Staying on top of payments is essential to avoid legal consequences.