One of Child Support Service’s main duties is to establish paternity for every child born out-of-wedlock in Oklahoma. Paternity establishment has many important benefits, but also some serious consequences. Once paternity has been established for a child, it is difficult or impossible to “undo.” Knowing and watching for the following “red flags” (legal issues) when working a paternity or establishment case will help CSS identify the correct legal father for a child, ensure that all parties receive a fair opportunity to participate in the legal proceedings, and establish and maintain a reliable source of support for the child.
Prior to preparing paternity pleadings, staff should:
- Check Oklahoma Supreme Court Network and Oklahoma District Court Records for previous litigation or marriages of parties;
- Check for P04 Paternity Questionnaire, and ensure that the P04 is fully completed;
- Check for the existence of an Acknowledgment of Paternity or other communication from parties; and
- Refer any questions or concerns to State’s Attorney.