am i liable for prev. bills my fiance accumulated?

i live in california, am i liable for any bills (welfare/irs) my fiance has accumulated prior to us being married? will my paycheck be garnished if he is served to pay past welfare/irs bills after we are married?

[I AM ALWAYS LIABLE]

My response:

Not if you maintain separate accounts. But, if his name is on the account, and you have your money in that account, plan on the fact that one day it will be taken - - and probably at the time you've written a check for a downpayment on a car (you'll see that check bounce all over town).

Force him to clear up his debts before you say, "I do" - - otherwise, "he won't".

IAAL