Whitwam v. Whitwam

The action for divorce was commenced in July, 1975 and was tried to the court as a default on October 24, 1977. At a temporary hearing held on August 8, 1975, Mr. Whitwam’s support obligation was “held open” because he was unemployed. The temporary order provided that if the wife or children received financial assistance from the county welfare department, Mr. Whitwam was to reimburse the department on such terms as it might direct. Subsequently, Mrs. Whitwam applied for and began receiving public assistance. Through a modified temporary order filed September 29, 1977, the court required Mr.…