Starting Your Child Support Case
After a case is opened, how long does it take to receive child
support payments?
The length of time to receive child
support payments varies by case.
For instance, a case that needs an
order established may take longer to receive payments than a case
opening from a divorce action.
How can I obtain a copy of my court order?
You will need to request a copy of your
order from the County of San Diego Superior Court Clerk's. Please
access their website to determine which location has your court case file.
Why did the HHSA office refer my case to DCSS?
If a child is receiving cash aid, a
referral is automatically sent to DCSS.
Can DCSS establish an order if I don't know where the noncustodial
parent is working?
Yes, DCSS will still be able to
establish an order.
Does DCSS provide legal help with child custody or visitation?
Through a federal grant, DCSS does have
the ability to help eligible parents get a custody and visitation
order along with their initial child support order. For more
information, click here.
If parents already have a visitation
order, and it needs to be changed, you may contact the Family Law Facilitator for assistance.
Can DCSS help me with Supervised Visitation?
No. You will need to review the Visitation Monitors Program
Resource List.
I am paying child support, but now I have the custody of my child.
Can I close my case & stop paying?
Contact DCSS for information about case closure.
How can I contact my child? I pay child support but don't know how
to contact my child.
DCSS is unable to release personal
information or forward items from one parent to another.
How can I re-open my case?
To re-open your case, click here to access the
electronic application.
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Paternity and Unmarried Parents
How can I get a genetic test?
Please contact DCSS to speak with a child support professional.
How much does genetic testing cost?
In most instances, DCSS provides free
genetic testing.
How long does it take to get the results?
Once all parties on the case have been
tested, the results are received within four to six weeks.
Do I have to travel to San Diego to test if I live out-of-county or out-of-state?
No, we will schedule an appointment at
the nearest available location for your convenience.
What will I need to bring to my appointment?
You will need to bring a valid
California ID or valid California Driver's License.
Children must have one of the following
forms of ID: Social Security card, Medi-Cal card, or birth certificate.
How is the genetic test conducted?
DCSS requires a saliva sample by buccal
swab. This sample is then sent to the lab for DNA testing.
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Parenting Time Opportunities for Children (PTOC)
How do I know if I am eligible for the PTOC program?
Review the list of eligibility
requirements. If your case qualifies, contact DCSS for the next steps.
I already have a child support order, am I still eligible for PTOC order?
No, your case is not eligible. Please
contact the Family Law Facilitator if you are interested
in getting a custody and visitation order.
Can DCSS help us change the existing custody and visitation order?
No, DCSS cannot help change existing
custody and visitation order. Please contact the Family Law Facilitator.
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Going to Court
How is the amount of child support determined?
Child support is determined using
guidelines established by California law. The most
important factors are:
- each parent's monthly income
- the amount of time the child spends
with each parent.
How can I get my child support amount changed?
Contact DCSS to request the order be
reviewed for a modification. Either parent can request a modification review.
What do I do if I cannot attend my hearing date?
Contact the other party, and then DCSS,
to determine if they will agree to a continuance.
Does the custodial party have to appear at the court hearing?
It is strongly recommended that the
custodial party appear at the court hearing in order to provide information.
Will I have an attorney representing me in court?
DCSS does not represent either party.
You are welcome to hire your own
attorney, but you are not required to.
How long will my hearing take?
Your hearing may take between two and
four hours.
What documents should I bring to the hearing?
Click on the following link for
information about going
to court, and watch a video on how to scan and share a document
in the What
do I need to have for my Pre-Court Hearing Meeting section.
Can I bring my present spouse/ friend?
You may bring your present spouse or
friend for moral support. However, DCSS will only discuss the case
with you and the other party. Your present spouse or friend will not
be allowed to participate in any case negotiations.
Can I bring my children?
DCSS does not provide childcare
services. The courtrooms will not allow anyone under 18 years old to
attend the hearing. DCSS strongly encourages parents to make childcare
arrangements during the court hearing.
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Calculating Child Support
How is the amount of child support determined?
Child support is calculated
using guidelines established by California law. The most
important factors are:
- each parent's monthly income
- the amount of time the child spends
with each parent.
How can I get my child support amount changed?
Contact DCSS to request the order be
reviewed for a modification. Either parent can request a modification review.
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