The Child Support Division in the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) for most states provides child support services at little or no cost to mothers, fathers, and other individuals who request services. When providing child support services, the OAG represents the state and its interest in obtaining the financial support and involvement of both parents, and does not represent either parent in providing child support services. The OAG generally assists in (1) locating absent parents; (2) establishing paternity; (3) establishing, enforcing, and modifying child and medical support orders; and (4) collecting and distributing child support payments.
In New Jersey, the Child Support Program is managed by the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Family Development, in partnership with the county Boards of Social Services. The services provided are similar to those described for the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) in other states. The New Jersey Child Support Program assists with locating absent parents, establishing paternity, and establishing, enforcing, and modifying child and medical support orders. It also handles the collection and distribution of child support payments. While the program provides these services, it does not represent either parent but rather operates in the interest of the child. Services are available to any parent or individual who has custody of a child and needs assistance in obtaining financial support from the non-custodial parent. The program aims to ensure that children receive the financial and medical support they are entitled to.