People v. Gregori

Opinion

WIENER, J.

A fundamental moral and legal precept of our society is that a father should be responsible for the support of his minor child. 2 (See Civ. Code, §§ 196a, 4700, subd. (a), 7006, subd. (a).) Recognizing that social pressures and civil sanctions may not always assure performance of this responsibility, the Legislature has made the unexcused wilful failure “to furnish necessary clothing, food, shelter or medical attendance, or other remedial care” for a minor child a criminal offense. (Pen. Code, § 270.) 3 Absent an earlier adjudication and notice of paternity, an offender may…