Request to Modify in California

[ThwartedOptimist]

My question involves child support in the State of: California

My ex moved home to CA when we got pregnant and filed for child support there when our son was born. Long story short, the courts issued a default judgment because I didn't appear -- I was in college on the other side of the country and didn't know that I could "appear" by phone. Now that I'm employed (still on the other side of the country) and my wages are being garnished, I'm losing property because of the exorbitant payments. When I lose my apartment (June or July at this rate), I'll have to move, will lose my job and will be back where I started when the order went into effect. Also, "Mom" won't communicate with me, waits as long as the courts will allow her to respond and has been aggressive about my intended involvement in my child's life.

As of now, it could take 120 days to get the hearing I've requested, but I won't be able to support my child by that time.

How can I file to get a hearing immediately?

Thanks ahead of time to the knowledgeable volunteers who are kind enough to respond and any other advice you can offer would be greatly appreciated too.