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 Virginia, the Division of Child Support Enforcement (DCSE) within the Virginia Department of Social Services operates similarly to the Child Support Division in the Office of the Attorney General in other states. The DCSE provides child support services to custodial and non-custodial parents, often for a minimal fee or no cost at all. These services include locating non-custodial parents, establishing paternity, and setting up, enforcing, and modifying child and medical support orders. Additionally, the DCSE is responsible for collecting and distributing child support payments. It's important to note that while the DCSE facilitates these services, it represents the interests of the state in ensuring children receive support from both parents, rather than representing either parent in the child support process.