Promissory Notes

Can I pursue my ex-spouse for a defaulted promissory note in California?
In California, do I have any recourse if an ex-spouse decides to renege on a Promissory Note that was issued for unpaid community interest and is secured by the property we once owned jointly? Specifically, I'm in a 3rd position behind two mortgages. Does the fact that my Promissory Note was approved by a judge (unlike the two mortgages in front of me) allow me to seek a judgment to go after other possible sources of cash such as a 401K, IRA or wages?
Should I use a promissory note or a mortgage with my parents?
I am doing a promissory note with my parents. They want to make sure it is recorded, so I am trying to find the correct form. $325,000 at 4.5% interest for 3 years. Should I use a promissory note then put a lien on the property in case something would happen to me or should i do a mortgage with them instead and register the mortgage by a lien against the property. the mortgage seems to be more costly then just a promissory note. I have the cash to pay them but I just want to leave my cash invested. So what is the better way or the legal way for the state of FL?
Can my wife get insurance on a vehicle in my name?
Separated...can I do promissory note/power of attorney so wife can get insurance on her vehicle that is in my name? She makes payments on it.
Can we loan our son $5000 without charging interest?
We are about to loan our son $5000 for a down payment on a property in Kingston, OH (Ross county) We want to use a promissory note for the loan. We don't want to charge him interest. We simply want him to pay us back in monthly payments of $100 until paid. I have read that this may present a problem with the IRS. Is there a way around this?
Can my tenants use their security deposit for unpaid rent?
My tenants are moving out June 8 and are a few months behind on rent and are requesting to use their security deposit for a month and a half rent. They requested to remodel the bathroom because the husband was in that line of work in lieu of paying 100.00 extra a month for their dog. Both are on disability. Wife is having a risky pregnancy and husband has disk problems from a car accident. They are moving to Colorado with his parents. I may not get anything but will a promissory note help? Do you have any other suggestions?