In Re Marriage of Merideth
Opinion
Opinion
Goff, J.
Statement of the Case
In this dissolution proceeding, the husband, James Merideth, appeals from an order after judgment that he pay to wife, Jo Anne, $3,555, representing arrearages in child support payments.
James asserts' that the trial court never obtained jurisdiction of his person; and, therefore, the support orders are void.
The Facts
Jo Anne and James were married in Illinois in 1967. They had one child, Aaron. They separated in 1972.
On February 9, 1973, Jo Anne filed this proceeding to dissolve her marriage to James. On February 14, 1973, pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure section 415.30, Jo Anne’s attorney mailed to James in Illinois a copy of the summons, the petition, a blank confidential questionnaire, and a notice and acknowledgment of receipt form. The latter form advised James in relevant part as follows:
This portion of this form was signed by Jo Anne’s counsel or one of his employees.
Below the “Notice” is an “Acknowledgment of Receipt” form which says in relevant part: “This acknowledges receipt of: (To be completed by sender before mailing) .. . [¶] 2. XX a copy of the Summons and of the Petition (Marriage) and: [¶] XX Blank Confidential…