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 Oregon, the Child Support Program falls under the Department of Justice and is similar to the Child Support Division in the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) described for most states. The program provides services to both parents at little or no cost, with the primary goal of ensuring that children receive the financial and emotional support they need from both parents. The Oregon Child Support Program assists by locating absent parents, establishing paternity, and setting up, enforcing, and modifying child and medical support orders. Additionally, the program is responsible for the collection and distribution of child support payments. It's important to note that while the program provides these services, it represents the state's interest in securing child support and does not act as an attorney for either parent.