The Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) does not represent either parent or the child(ren), and its attorneys are not your attorneys. Because you are not a legal client, the information you provide is not confidential under the attorney/client privilege. The information in your case may be discussed or disclosed to other public agencies that are authorized by law to receive such information, the other parent's employer and to the other parent or his/her attorney to the extent required by law.

By law, DCSS has the final decision on what child support enforcement actions will be taken, even if the custodial parent disagrees. Parents have the right to seek legal advice from a private attorney or legal aid group at their own expense at any time.

Legal Assistance Alternatives

In addition to the county DCSS, private attorneys and legal clinics can provide legal assistance in child support cases.

Private Attorneys - A private attorney can provide personalized services to parents. They can give as much time to a case as is necessary to do an effective job. The biggest drawback is expense. A private attorney will charge for the time required for personal interviews, telephone calls, legal research, court appearances, and the preparation of pleadings.  If the custodial party cannot afford an attorney, the noncustodial parent may be ordered to pay reasonable attorney fees and court costs.  However, it is up to the judge to decide how much, if any, of the legal fees the noncustodial parent may be ordered to pay.

Legal Clinics - Services offered by a legal clinic may cost less than those provided by a private attorney. Legal clinics may charge for services based on the actual time spent on a case or on a contingency fee basis. See also:

Superior Court of California, County of Kern