Recent Court Decision Clarifies Collectibility of Old Support Orders in California
On January 10, 2025, the California Court of Appeal in In re Marriage of York Goldman clarified the enforceability of old support orders. The court confirmed that child and spousal support orders are enforceable indefinitely under California Family Code § 291, while other financial provisions in divorce judgments may be subject to the laches defense if there’s unreasonable delay causing prejudice to the debtor. This decision emphasizes the importance of timely action in enforcing support orders. If you have an old support order, it’s crucial to consult an attorney to understand your rights and options for collection.