State, Department of Health & Rehabilitative Services, Office of Child Support Enforcement ex rel. Howard v. Bell

The Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services appeals from the trial court’s order dismissing its complaint with prejudice and barring any claim from being asserted against Malachi Bell in connection with the paternity of a minor child. We reverse the trial court’s order to the extent that it binds persons who are not parties to this action. We affirm the order, however, in all other respects.

The trial court exceeded its authority when it dismissed HRS’ complaint filed on behalf of the minor child with prejudice “to any future action being filed against this defendant [Bell] for…