Look v. Penovatz

Penovatz and Rothert dissolved their marriage in 2006. Penovatz was to pay child support for Christopher, born in 1997, based on Penovatz having 69 percent timeshare with Christopher, and Rothert having 31 percent. The court ordered both parties to maintain health insurance coverage for Christopher. In 2007, the court modified Penovatz’s child support obligation, such that he owed $400 per month, based on the same time share percentages. Christopher’s primary residence was with Penovatz in Hollister. In 2010-2011, Rothert began living with Look in Carmel Valley; the two did not have a formal agreement requiring Rothert to contribute to living expenses. In 2011, Penovatz and Rothert agreed to change the custody arrangement so that Rothert and Look’s home became Christopher’s primary residence; they disagree as to whether they reached an agreement regarding child support. Apparently, statutory child support would have been over $1,500 per month. Penovatz continued to pay $400 per month and provide health insurance through Christopher's high school graduation. Look later testified that he was concerned Penovatz would detain Christopher, or remove Christopher to Serbia if Rothert persisted in seeking increased support. In 2015, Look sought reimbursement under Family Code section 39501 for funds he expended for Christopher. The court of appeal affirmed the rejection of his claim. Penovatz satisfied his child support obligation under the law. View "Look v. Penovatz" on Justia Law