CA AB2369

Requires courts to issue orders for payment of attorney's fees and costs to prevailing petitioners in domestic violence cases after notice and hearing upon request.

Allows courts to award attorney's fees and costs to prevailing respondents only if the respondent proves by preponderance of evidence that the petition is frivolous or solely intended to abuse, intimidate, or cause unnecessary delay.

Mandates courts to determine the paying party's ability to pay pursuant to Family Code Section 270 before awarding any attorney's fees and costs.

Approved by Governor on September 27, 2022.