California Code, Health and Safety Code - HSC § 123982

Except as otherwise provided by law, the amount of any judgment, award, or settlement relating to a medical condition for which treatment services have been provided under the California Children's Services Program shall be subject to a claim by the state department and the designated county agency for reimbursement of the costs of the benefits provided, and to any lien filed against that judgment, award, or settlement. The department or the county designated agency, through its civil legal adviser, may, to enforce this right, institute and prosecute legal proceedings against the person who has received benefits under this article, his or her guardian, conservator, or other personal representative, or his or her estate. In the event of a judgment, award, or settlement in a suit or claim against a third person who is liable for the medical condition for which treatment services have been provided under the California Children's Services Program, the court or other agency shall first order paid from the judgment, award, or settlement the actual costs of the care and treatment furnished, or to be furnished, under the California Children's Services Program.