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 Oklahoma, the Child Support Services (CSS) division within the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) operates similarly to the Child Support Division in the Office of the Attorney General in other states. CSS provides assistance to both custodial and non-custodial parents, regardless of income, for a minimal fee or at no cost. The services offered by CSS include locating absent parents, establishing paternity, and setting up, enforcing, and modifying child support and medical support orders. Additionally, CSS is responsible for the collection and distribution of child support payments. It's important to note that while CSS provides these services, it represents the state's interest in ensuring that children receive financial support from both parents, not the individual interests of either parent.