Paternity

A referral is received from the Family Support Division (FSD) when the paternity of a child is at issue. The custodial parent will receive a letter from the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office indicating an appointment date and time and a list of documents that the custodial parent needs to bring to the appointment.

Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) Benefits

A custodial parent that receives Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) benefits must cooperate with this office or those benefits will be sanctioned. If a custodial parent that does not receive State benefits does not cooperate with this office, the referral will be closed and returned to the FSD.

Appointment

At the appointment the custodial parent will meet with the Assistant Prosecutor and sign paperwork necessary to file a paternity action in court. At that time, questions will be answered and legal procedures will be explained. The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office does not represent the custodial parent or the child in a paternity action. This office represents the State of Missouri’s interests. This office cannot be involved in custody or visitation issues.

This office will process the case through the court system and prepare the final judgment. Once a judgment is obtained the referral is closed and the case is sent back to the FSD for enforcement of the child support order.