Full question:
I am a seventy year old widower dependent on social security for my general and medical expenses. I have a forty year old son who is earning well. Am I entitled to any financial support from him?
- Category: Minors
- Subcategory: Support
- Date:
- State: California
Answer:
Yes, in California, adult children have a legal obligation to support their parents who are unable to work and support themselves. This obligation is outlined in California Family Code § 4400 and § 4403. The law states that an adult child must provide support to a parent in need, to the extent that they are able.
A parent, or the county on their behalf, can take legal action against the child to enforce this duty of support. If the county provides support to a parent, it can seek reimbursement from the child as well. The court may also order the child to pay reasonable attorney's fees and court costs in such proceedings.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.