What is the test for a direct attack on a final judgment by way of an independent action to set it aside?

California, United States of America


The following excerpt is from Mullen v. Department of Real Estate, 204 Cal.App.3d 295, 251 Cal.Rptr. 12 (Cal. App. 1988):

"A direct attack on an otherwise final, valid judgment by way of an independent action to set it aside [citations] is permitted where it appears that the complaining party was fraudulently prevented from presenting his claim or defense in the prior action." (Kachig v. Boothe (1971) 22 Cal.App.3d 626, 632, 99 Cal.Rptr. 393.) This is known as extrinsic fraud. The rule is premised on the "important public policy that litigants be afforded a fair adversary proceeding in which fully to present their case. [Citation.]" (Ibid.) An example of extrinsic fraud occurs when an unsuccessful party is kept from appearing in the action by a false promise of a compromise. ( Id. at p. 633, 99 Cal.Rptr. 393.)

Other Questions


In a personal injury action brought by a former wife against her ex-partner in a civil action, in addition to a similar action against the husband in a separate action, can the court order return to husband in the civil action? (California, United States of America)
Is a final judgment an appealable final judgment if it does not address postjudgment matters? (California, United States of America)
Is a judgment disposed of all nine causes of action and appealable under the one final judgment rule? (California, United States of America)
If a final judgment has not been found, can an appeal be appealed from a judgment that fails to complete all causes of action between the parties? (California, United States of America)
Can a third party judgment creditor bring a direct action against the insured under Insurance Code section 11580? (California, United States of America)
Can a judge set aside or modify a valid final judgment? (California, United States of America)
Does a voluntary dismissal of an action result in a judgment in the absence of a defendant as to whom the action was dismissed? (California, United States of America)
In what circumstances can a plaintiff seek to set aside a default judgment in a personal injury action? (California, United States of America)
Can a judgment of the small claims court preclude a subsequent judgment from the same cause of action? (California, United States of America)
Does a final judgment have to be reversed if the successful plaintiff dies while the judgment is on appeal? (California, United States of America)
X



Alexi white


"The most advanced legal research software ever built."

Trusted by top litigators from across North America.