Newly discovered debt

[torimac]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? CA, TX

Our decree is currently in CA, but will be moving to TX shortly. I have not been able to find any forms for this on the Texas self-help.

Since the divorce, I have started getting hospital bills, that I did not know about, about one thousand dollars. So far, my ex has paid no child support, none of the bills that were to be split.

These bills are not specifically addressed on the decree, because I knew nothing of them. They would be considered joint property, I assume, had I known about them. Can I get a revised order that splits these debts? Without such an order, he will not see himself as responsible and I have more bills to pay. I am getting a bit tired of paying our community property bills to save my credit.

 

[mistoffolees]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? CA, TX

Our decree is currently in CA, but will be moving to TX shortly. I have not been able to find any forms for this on the Texas self-help.

Since the divorce, I have started getting hospital bills, that I did not know about, about one thousand dollars. So far, my ex has paid no child support, none of the bills that were to be split.

These bills are not specifically addressed on the decree, because I knew nothing of them. They would be considered joint property, I assume, had I known about them. Can I get a revised order that splits these debts? Without such an order, he will not see himself as responsible and I have more bills to pay. I am getting a bit tired of paying our community property bills to save my credit.

If it wasn't addressed, you can go back and get a revised order, but it's probably going to cost a lot more than the $500 you'd be reimbursed - especially since you'll be out of state. Frankly, you are probably not going to be able to do much but send him copies and ask him nicely to pay his half. If he doesn't, it's probably not worth fighting over.

You indicated that there are other community bills involved. If the total is large enough, you might consider filing for contempt on the ones that WERE addressed in the court settlement and add this one in. It technically shouldn't be considered, but some courts would accept it in the interests of expediency. If you're going after him for contempt on things that were clearly addressed, you can ask for him to pay your legal expenses, as well (you may not win that, but it's worth asking).

Child support is a different matter. Your state will have an agency to help collect the child support.