In Re Marriage of Ward

WORK, Acting P.J.

James Michael Ward appeals an order awarding attorney fees and costs to Emily Ward Hayes's pro bono counsel, payable to the San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program (SDVLP). He essentially contends the trial court abused its discretion in awarding attorney fees, because representation was provided by SDVLP at no charge to Hayes and, in any event, the award was inappropriate and disproportionate. As we shall explain, the award was properly made and amply supported by the record. Accordingly, we affirm the order and direct the trial court to determine what award SDVLP is entitled to for reasonable attorney fees incurred on appeal.

In March 1989, SDVLP first assisted Hayes in connection with a small claims appeal regarding certain medical, psychological and other expenses and attorney fees incurred on behalf of the parties' minor child, Gerrit, while a ward of the juvenile court. [1] Upon reviewing this matter, SDVLP discovered Hayes was not receiving any child support from Ward, her ex-husband, nor was there any child support order. Consequently, SDVLP filed a child support action which resulted in a stipulated order dated June 30, 1989, requiring Ward to pay…