jtval 0 #1 February 22, 2011 Disclaimer: Yes. I know I am asking skydivers for legal advice. I also know there are a few that could answer.... ...oh, And BOOBIES!!! Does anyone know if a law suit (settlement) could be found in public records? Whats the best way to start looking? Quick Synopsis: My brothers step sons father is a dead beat. My Brother believes the deadbeat is collecting a settlement (maybe even SSN) partially in the childs' (16 y/o) name.My photos My Videos Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Andy9o8 2 #2 February 22, 2011 The lawsuit itself will be reflected in the court's public records - each of the documents filed by any party to the suit, as well as a summarized synopsis called "docket entries", generated by the court clerk's office. Docket entries are often available online - nowadays, in about 75-80% of the jurisdictions. Of those who make it available online, some counties allow free online access to court docket entries, while others charge for it. Federal court records are available on a public access system called PACER, but you must register and pay a fee. However, all public records are available to anyone, if you're willing to go down to the courthouse or whatever and request them. If a lawsuit ends with a settlement, some jurisdictions will mark the case "settled", while other jurisdictions will simply mark the case "closed." However, the amount and/or terms of a settlement are almost never reflected on the public records in most places. In your case, find the court records website for the county(ies) in which you think the lawsuit may have been filed, then do a search for names of anyone who might have been a party/ies to the suit. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jtval 0 #3 February 22, 2011 Sweet thanks for the info.My photos My Videos Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
lawrocket 3 #4 February 22, 2011 QuoteMy brothers step sons father is a dead beat. Have him contact the local Department of Child Support Services. They like finding money. QuoteMy Brother believes the deadbeat is collecting a settlement (maybe even SSN) partially in the childs' (16 y/o) name. In California (and in most, if not ALL jurisdictions) a settlement for a minor must be approved by the court. There would be the opportunity to appear and if there is anything shady that it can be brought to the court. If the mother has legal custody then it is something she must be involved with. Follow Andy's advice and keep track of mine. My wife is hotter than your wife. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jtval 0 #5 February 23, 2011 THANKS! Yes, the mother has the joint custody but the son lives with her(and my brother). The dad was injured but was a dead beat before that, anyway. Recently, he seems to have had less problems with money so My brother thinks he got some money from a settlement. He thinks that the deadbeat is some form of retired through disabliity/SSI. From our understanding SSI would give the deadbeat a small ration to care for his son. Mom and My brother haven't seen anything. Obviously, he still owes child support which is the whole reason this is an issue at all. Thanks for the guidance. I will pass it along and hope I can find any records for them.My photos My Videos Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
