If you are dealing with a child support or family law case in California, you will likely come across court forms like Form FL-685 and Form FL-150. These forms are part of the California court system’s way to make sure both sides share the right information before a judge makes a decision.
Understanding who needs to file these forms, when they must be filed, and why they are important can make a huge difference in how smoothly your case moves forward. Many people find the process confusing, but once you understand what each form is for, it becomes much easier to manage.
Let’s go step by step through who files Form FL-685 and Form FL-150, what each form does, and how to handle them correctly.
What Is Form FL-685?
Form FL-685, officially called Response to Governmental Notice of Motion or Order to Show Cause, is used in cases where a government agency, usually the Local Child Support Agency (LCSA), is involved.
This agency helps collect and enforce child support payments. When the LCSA brings a case to court—such as asking a judge to order or change child support payments—the other parent or party has the right to respond.
That’s where Form FL-685 comes in.
Who Files Form FL-685
The respondent, or the person who is being brought before the court by the government, files Form FL-685. In simple terms, this means you file the form if the government agency has filed a motion or request against you.
For example:
- If the Local Child Support Agency sends you a notice saying they want to change the amount of child support you pay, you’ll use Form FL-685 to respond.
- If they want the court to establish paternity (to legally name someone as the child’s father), you’ll use this same form to reply.
- If the agency is asking for an order related to health insurance or medical support for your child, again, you use Form FL-685.
So, if you receive a governmental notice of motion or an order to show cause, you are the respondent, and you must file Form FL-685 to let the court know your position—whether you agree, disagree, or have other information to share.
Purpose of Form FL-685
Form FL-685 helps the court understand your side of the story in a government-involved child support case. It allows you to:
- Respond to the Local Child Support Agency’s requests.
- Explain your position regarding child support, parentage, or other related issues.
- Provide your agreement or disagreement with what the LCSA is asking for.
- Share relevant details, like your financial situation, that might affect child support decisions.
By filing Form FL-685, you ensure that your voice is heard before the judge makes a ruling. Ignoring it can lead to serious consequences, including the court making orders without your input, which can result in wage garnishment or higher support amounts.
How to Fill Out and File Form FL-685
When completing Form FL-685, follow these basic steps:
- Get the form – You can download it for free from the California Courts website or pick it up at your local courthouse.
- Fill in the case information – Include the court name, case number, and the names of both parties.
- Read the LCSA’s motion carefully – Make sure you understand what they are requesting before you fill in your responses.
- Respond clearly – State whether you agree or disagree with each point. Be honest and specific.
- Attach supporting documents – If your financial situation or other details have changed, attach proof like pay stubs or tax returns.
- Sign and date the form – Unsigned forms will not be accepted.
- File with the court clerk – Take your completed form to the courthouse and file it before the deadline.
- Serve copies – You must serve (legally deliver) copies of your form to the Local Child Support Agency and the other parent
It’s very important that you do not miss deadlines. The court notice will specify when your response is due. If you fail to respond, the court may go ahead with the agency’s requests automatically.
What Is Form FL-150?
Now let’s talk about Form FL-150, officially called the Income and Expense Declaration.
This is one of the most important financial forms in California family law. It gives the court and the other party a full picture of your financial situation. It shows your income, expenses, assets, and debts—basically, your financial life on paper.
Who Files Form FL-150
Unlike FL-685, Form FL-150 must be filed by both parties in a case involving financial issues.
That means you must file it whether you are the petitioner or the respondent, as long as your case involves:
- Child support
- Spousal or partner support
- Attorney’s fees and costs
- Division of community property or debts
Even if you think the other person earns more or should pay more, the court still requires both parties to file their own Form FL-150. This allows the judge to compare each person’s financial situation and make fair orders.
Purpose of Form FL-150
The Income and Expense Declaration (Form FL-150) gives the court accurate information about your financial status. The judge uses this information to decide:
- How much child support or spousal support should be paid.
- Whether one party should contribute to the other’s attorney fees.
- How to fairly divide assets and debts.
By filing the form, you help the court make informed decisions. Without it, the judge might assume you earn more than you do—or worse, make a decision without your financial input.
What to Include in Form FL-150
Form FL-150 is detailed, but filling it out carefully helps you in the long run. You’ll be asked to provide:
- Personal Information: Name, job, employer, and time worked.
- Income Details: Monthly income, bonuses, commissions, tips, or unemployment benefits.
- Expenses: Housing, transportation, utilities, childcare, medical costs, and other regular bills.
- Assets and Debts: Bank accounts, vehicles, property, loans, and credit card balances.
- Tax Information: Whether you file jointly or separately and number of dependents.
You’ll also need to attach proof of income—like your most recent pay stubs (for the past two months) or your most recent federal tax return.
How to File and Serve Form FL-150
Here’s what to do after filling out Form FL-150:
- Check for accuracy – Double-check all numbers and documents.
- Make copies – You’ll need one for yourself, one for the other party, and one for the court.
- File it with the court – Submit it to the family law clerk in your courthouse.
- Serve copies – Give a copy to the other parent or their attorney, and to the Local Child Support Agency if they are involved.
- Keep proof of service – Always keep a record showing when and how you served the documents.
Why These Forms Matter
Both Form FL-685 and Form FL-150 play a major role in helping the court make fair decisions in family law cases.
- Form FL-685 gives you the opportunity to explain your side of the story when the government or LCSA files a motion against you.
- Form FL-150 ensures transparency by giving the judge and the other party an honest picture of your financial situation.
When used correctly, these forms protect your rights and help prevent unfair outcomes. If you ignore them, the court may make decisions that can have long-term financial and legal effects on your life.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When dealing with these forms, it’s easy to make errors that can slow down your case or hurt your position. Here are some common mistakes you should avoid:
- Not responding on time – Deadlines are strict in family court. Missing one can lead to default judgments.
- Leaving blanks – Incomplete forms can be rejected or misinterpreted.
- Failing to attach proof – Always include pay stubs, tax returns, or other income documentation with your FL-150.
- Not serving copies properly – Both the court and the other party must get copies in the right way.
- Guessing numbers – Always use real figures, not estimates. False information can backfire later.
Tips for a Smooth Filing Process
- Read instructions carefully: Each form has specific guidance printed on it.
- Stay organized: Keep all your documents in one place—financial records, pay slips, court notices, and proof of service.
- Get help if needed: If you’re unsure, contact a family law facilitator at your courthouse. They provide free assistance and can review your forms before filing.
- Keep copies of everything: Never submit your only copy to the court. Always keep one for your own records.
- Be honest and accurate: The court relies on your information. Transparency builds credibility.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with child support or family law cases can feel overwhelming, especially when it involves government agencies and complex paperwork. But understanding who files Form FL-685 and Form FL-150 makes the process less stressful and helps you protect your rights.
Remember:
- Form FL-685 is for responding to a government motion (like one filed by the Local Child Support Agency).
- Form FL-150 is for declaring your financial information, and both parties must file it in financial cases.
Take your time, stay organized, and file these forms properly. Doing so shows the court you are taking your case seriously and ensures your side is fully represented before any decisions are made.
If you are uncertain about what to include, visit your local courthouse’s self-help center or consult a family law attorney. They can guide you through the process so your forms are filed correctly, on time, and with confidence.