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 York, the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) does not directly handle child support services. Instead, the New York State Child Support Program, administered by the Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) within the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA), provides these services. The DCSS assists individuals by locating noncustodial parents, establishing paternity, and setting up, enforcing, and modifying child and medical support orders. Additionally, the DCSS is responsible for collecting and distributing child support payments. Services are available to all parents and guardians, regardless of income, and may involve minimal fees. While the OAG represents the state's interest in ensuring that both parents financially support their children, it does not represent either parent in child support matters. The goal is to promote the involvement of both parents in the child's life and ensure the child's well-being through financial support.