Request For Order (RFO): What It Is And How It Works

A Request for Order (RFO) is a formal legal document used to ask a family court to make decisions about particular issues in your case. In California, an RFO is similar to what other courts might call a motion or notice of motion. It allows you to address urgent matters before a judge without having to wait for your entire case to be settled or resolved.

At Cullen Family Law Group, we understand that family law matters are deeply personal, and we handle each case with the care and respect it deserves. Our family law attorneys have extensive experience working with Riverside and Temecula courts, which helps us navigate the local procedures that can greatly affect the outcome of your case. Whether you need to submit an RFO or reply to one filed against you, we are ready to serve as your guide and advocate throughout the process. 

Family Law Issues That An RFO Can Address

Unlike general case filings, RFOs focus on specific issues that need court attention during a pending case or after a judgment. This includes:

• Changes in your life affect your children’s well-being: If you are moving to a new place, a new work schedule, safety concerns, or evolving developmental needs, you can file an RFO to request an update to child custody and visitation arrangements
• Significant shifts in income, job status or the children’s needs: You can file an RFO to request a change in support orders, taking into account both parents’ incomes, the time each spends with the children and other relevant factors
• Needing financial help from a spouse or partner during or after a separation: You can use an RFO to request temporary or ongoing support, which can depend on factors such as how long you were married, what each person can earn, the lifestyle you had together and what each person needs financially
• Disputes regarding who gets to use or control shared assets: If you are currently in the middle of a divorce process, an RFO can be useful to ask for temporary orders about property use, paying off debts or exclusive use of the family home until everything is officially divided

An RFO can also help enforce existing court orders if the other party consistently acts against them. The court can issue penalties, change existing arrangements or take other actions to make sure custody, visitation, support or property orders are followed. 

How Do You File An RFO In Riverside County?

The process begins with filing the Request for Order form (FL-300), where you’ll outline what orders you’re seeking and why you need them. Depending on the request, you might need to fill out additional forms, such as: 

• Income and Expense Declaration (FL-150), for financial matters 
• Declaration Under Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (FL-105), for custody/visitation
• Temporary Emergency Orders (FL-305)

It’s crucial to include all the facts that support your request and notify the other party about your position. You may also attach supporting documents like financial records or communication logs that may be relevant to your issue. Take note that while there may be court filing fees, fee waivers are available for those who qualify based on financial need.

What Happens After Filing An RFO

Once you’ve submitted your RFO, the next step is to make sure you properly serve copies of all the documents to the other party. The way you do this depends on whether they’ve formally appeared in the case:

• If they have not filed a response: Personal service by someone at least 18 years old (not yourself) at least 16 court days before the hearing
• If they have filed a response: Service by mail at least 21 calendar days before the hearing

After you’ve served the papers, the person who did the serving must fill out a Proof of Service form (either FL-330 for personal delivery or FL-335 for mailing) and submit it to the court.

In Riverside County, you may have to wait a few weeks between filing your RFO and actually having your hearing. This can vary depending on court congestion. Moreover, if your case involves child custody or visitation issues, you may have a Child Custody Recommending Counseling session scheduled before you head to court. 

Contact Cullen Family Law Group Today

Don’t face the complexities of the court system alone. Our attorneys will listen carefully to your concerns and help you determine the most effective path forward for your family law matter. Call 951-715-4632 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation at our Riverside or Temecula offices.