“Can back child support be requested for a time period wherein the custodial parent moved away without notifying the noncustodial parent, and that parent had no idea where to even send child support payments? In this case, there was no child support order through the court. There was only an informal child support agreement.”

Under the circumstances you describe where there is no actual court order for child support, the custodial parent will not be able to get an order for support retroactive before s/he files. Of course if that custodial parent has been receiving public assistance, the governement can go after welfare reimbursements against the non-custodial parent for payments made up to 3 years prior to their catching up with that other biological parent.

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Michael Durgavich is an accomplished attorney and mediator. Maintaining a general practice in the San Jose, California area, Mr. Durgavich specializes in family law, bankruptcy, and alternative dispute resolution. Mr. Durgavich can be reached through his website at http://www.MichaelDurgavich.com. Contact This Author

State laws vary, and the above is intended as general advice, and not direct legal advice regarding any one particular situation in any one state. For direct personal legal advice related to your own situation you should consult an attorney familiar with the laws of your state and with your situation.