FL-381 is a California family court form used when a party needs to respond to an Application for Expedited Child Support Order. The expedited process is typically used in cases involving the Local Child Support Agency (LCSA) where support must be set quickly—often before a full hearing. FL-381 gives the responding parent the opportunity to tell the court whether they agree or disagree with the proposed child support amount and to present their own evidence or objections before temporary or expedited orders are made.

The form requires the responding party to clearly state which parts of the LCSA’s or other party’s request they oppose, agree with, or want to modify. This may include disputes over income calculations, the number of children, timeshare (percentage of parenting time), deductions, health insurance costs, or special expenses like childcare. FL-381 ensures the court hears both sides before issuing a temporary child support order under the expedited process.

FL-381 also allows the responding party to provide supporting information, such as updated income details, proof of employment or unemployment, tax records, or documentation of expenses. If a party disagrees with the support calculation presented in the expedited request, they must use this form to explain why and provide the correct numbers. Attaching a completed Income and Expense Declaration (FL-150) may be required if financial information is in dispute.

The form serves as both a response and a notice of hearing, meaning it confirms when and where the expedited child support hearing will take place. Once completed, FL-381 must be properly served on the other party and filed with the court before the hearing. This ensures everyone has adequate notice and that the case proceeds fairly. Failing to respond may result in the court entering a support order based solely on the information provided by the requesting party or the LCSA.

In summary, FL-381 is a critical form used to respond to expedited requests for child support orders in California. It protects the responding parent’s rights by providing a way to contest or clarify support calculations and ensures the court receives accurate, complete financial information. Properly completing and filing FL-381 helps the judge make a fair, informed decision about temporary child support during the expedited process.