[Myous]

Hello, I divorced in WA state in 2008, and was allowed to relocate to Ca with my children having sole decision making except for religion and major medical. The father has 2 weekends of visitation every month. The child support has not been modified and I need to modify it, because the cost of living is much higher in CA and the children are school age now and they need more. He has moved to Ca in the past year. So I know I can move the jurisdiction here. I am barely making it and can not afford to hire an attorney. Is there a way, I could transfer jurisdiction and modify child support? Can it be done in combination? Where do I start? Ps I'm in southern ca (oc) and he is in northern, I did go to my local court but they gave me the wrong forms which were for enforcing childsupport!
Thanks.

[ScottGem]

So go get the right forms. I don't believe you need to formally move jurisdiction. Since both parties have moved then jurisdiction lies with the child's home state which would now be CA. I would suggest that you check local law schools, many run clinics that will help you prepare paperwork. Or check women's support groups for help preparing a petition. Or just go back to the court and request the forms to petition for a modification of the support agreement.

I should mention, however, that support is based on income, not expenses. So, unless his income has changed significantly, you may not get a modification.

[cdad]

Contact these people and let them know what is going on. They will do it for you for free.

California Department of Child Support Services > Home

[AK lawyer]

No, California doesn't have jurisdiction to modify a Washington divorce decree.

[cdad]

No, California doesn't have jurisdiction to modify a Washington divorce decree.

I think the OP is looking to modify the child support not the divorce decree. If that is the case and since both parents are now living in California then a change in jurisdiction should be allowed.