FL-190 is a California family court form used to officially notify the parties that the court has signed and entered a final judgment in a case involving parentage, child custody, visitation, or child support. Once the judge signs the judgment—such as a parentage order, support order, or custody agreement—FL-190 is completed and mailed to both parties to document the date the judgment became effective. This notice is important because it provides formal confirmation that the court’s decisions are now legally enforceable.

The form includes basic information such as the names of the parties, the case number, and the date the judgment was entered. Attached to the notice is a copy of the judgment itself so that both parties know exactly what orders were made. This may include rulings on legal and physical custody, visitation schedules, child support amounts, parentage findings, and any additional orders affecting the rights and responsibilities of each parent. FL-190 ensures that everyone receives the same official version of the final orders.

FL-190 also starts the timeframe for certain post-judgment rights, such as deadlines for appeal, enforcement, or modification. For example, once the Notice of Entry of Judgment is mailed, the clock begins for filing an appeal or requesting certain types of post-judgment relief. Because of this, the form must be mailed promptly and correctly, and proof of mailing is required so the court can verify when notice was given.

In parentage cases (under the Uniform Parentage Act), FL-190 is especially important because it confirms the legal parent-child relationship established by the judgment. This determination forms the basis for child support, custody, and visitation orders going forward. In custody and support cases, the notice ensures that both parties are aware of the court’s decisions so they can follow the orders and avoid unintentional violations.

In summary, FL-190 is an essential form that provides official notification that a final judgment has been entered in a California parentage, custody, or support case. It ensures both parties receive a copy of the judgment, establishes the effective date, and triggers deadlines for appeals or further legal action. By providing clear, accurate notice, FL-190 helps both parties understand their rights and obligations under the court’s final orders.