Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE) Practice Exam

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Study for the Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE). Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions designed to enhance your knowledge of paralegal standards and competencies. Prepare effectively and increase your chances of passing!

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What term is used for a spouse or parent who cannot make payments due to tough times?

  1. Defaulter

  2. Respondent

  3. Petitioner

  4. Obligor

The correct answer is: Obligor

The term "Obligor" is used to refer to an individual, such as a spouse or parent, who is legally obligated to make payments, such as child support or alimony. When they are unable to fulfill this obligation due to financial difficulties, they are still recognized as the obligor, but their circumstances may affect their ability to make those payments. This term captures the essence of a legal duty to pay, regardless of the party's financial situation. In contrast, a defaulter typically refers to someone who has failed to meet a financial obligation but does not encompass the legal relationship that arises in contexts like child support or spousal support obligations. The respondent and petitioner terms are primarily used in legal cases and refer to the parties involved in a lawsuit or court proceedings. Thus, while they may relate to the situation indirectly, they do not accurately describe the person with the payment obligation facing financial hardship.