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 Rhode Island, the Child Support Division within the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) offers a range of services to ensure that children receive financial support from their parents. These services are typically provided at minimal or no cost to individuals who seek assistance. The OAG acts on behalf of the state's interest in securing financial support from both parents and does not represent either parent in child support matters. The OAG's responsibilities include locating parents who are absent, establishing paternity, and setting up, enforcing, or modifying orders for child and medical support. Additionally, the OAG is involved in the collection and distribution of child support payments. It's important to note that while the OAG facilitates these processes, the actual enforcement and modification of child support orders are typically handled by the Rhode Island Family Court.