Byrd S. Laumeier, Appellant v. Herman H. Laumeier, Respondent

Summary

The New York Court of Appeals held that the New York courts have jurisdiction to adjudicate a claim for support of a child born after a divorce when the divorce decree was silent on child support and the child and mother are domiciled in New York. The court reversed the lower courts' dismissal, allowing the wife to recover expenses she incurred in supporting the child, subject to a determination of paternity. The opinion relied on common‑law principles of a parent's natural obligation and prior New York authority. Justice McLaughlin dissented, contending that Missouri courts retain exclusive jurisdiction over support of the unborn child.