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 Washington State, the Division of Child Support (DCS) within the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) performs functions similar to the Child Support Division in the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) described. DCS provides child support services to both parents at little or no cost. The agency assists by locating noncustodial parents, establishing paternity, and setting up, enforcing, and modifying child support and healthcare orders. Additionally, DCS is responsible for collecting and distributing child support payments. It's important to note that while DCS provides these services, it represents the state's interest in ensuring children receive support from both parents, not the individual interests of either parent.