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Stressed single mother in Palmdale sitting at a kitchen table reviewing bills and legal paperwork while her three children play in the background. Concept art illustrating the financial strain of unpaid child support for families in the Antelope Valley.
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The Single Mom’s Guide to Navigating Child Support in Palmdale (When “Bob” Won’t Pay)

January 15, 2026 • locallivingadmin • 3 mins read

Meet Susan. She lives in Palmdale, raises three energetic kids, and works two jobs—one at a retail store at the AV Mall and another picking up shifts at a local restaurant. She is tired, she is hardworking, and she is doing it all on her own.

Then there is Bob. Bob is the father of the kids. He lives locally but is currently “in between jobs.” He isn’t paying child support, claiming he can’t pay what he doesn’t have. Susan feels stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure if she has any options because Bob is unemployed.

If this story sounds familiar, you are not alone. Many single parents in the Antelope Valley face this exact scenario. But here is the good news: unemployment does not let a parent off the hook.

Here is a step-by-step guide on what “Susan” (and you) can do right here in Palmdale and Lancaster to get the support your children deserve.

1. The Myth: “No Job Means No Child Support”

Many parents like Bob believe that if they have $0 income, their child support obligation disappears. This is false. California courts can impute income (assign an earning ability) to a parent based on their skills and work history.

Furthermore, the court can issue a “Seek Work” Order, requiring the unemployed parent to apply for a specific number of jobs per week and provide proof to the court.

2. Where to Start: The Department of Child Support Services (DCSS)

You do not need an expensive private attorney to get the ball rolling. The Los Angeles County Child Support Services Department has a dedicated division right here in the High Desert. They can help locate the other parent, establish paternity, and enforce orders—even if the other parent is unemployed.

3. Free Legal Help: The Family Law Facilitator

If you are confused by the paperwork, head to the Michael Antonovich Antelope Valley Courthouse. They have a Family Law Facilitator office that provides free assistance to unrepresented parents. They can help you fill out the forms to request a modification or enforcement of support.

  • Tip: Arrive early! This is a first-come, first-served resource.
  • Location: 42011 4th Street West, Lancaster, CA 93534.

4. Community Resources for “Susan”

While you wait for the legal system to work, there are local organizations in Palmdale and Lancaster dedicated to helping single moms bridge the gap.

  • Single Mothers Outreach: Connects parents with resources for housing stability and emotional support.
  • Grace Resources Center: Offers food pantries and emergency assistance for families in Lancaster and Palmdale.

** The Bottom Line**

Susan doesn’t have to carry the financial burden alone, and neither do you. The systems in Palmdale and Lancaster are designed to ensure that “Bob” contributes to his children’s lives, whether he has a job today or not.

Need more local tips? Check out our “Active Life” section to find low-cost activities for the kids, or browse our “Community” tab to connect with other local parents.