There are specific circumstances under which the Texas Family Code, Chapter 231, requires the Title IV-D agency be provided with a Service of Citation or Notice.

How do I provide the Title IV-D agency with legal notice?

  • Please use our Service of Citation - Notice Directory to provide citations/notices to the Title IV-D agency.
    • Note: This directory does not constitute as legal notice to any other agency or division of the OAG, this directory is only for Child Support Division cases. These notice provisions only apply to suits brought pursuant to Title V of the Texas Family Code (Suits Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship). All other suits must be served in accordance with applicable state law and procedures. E.g. Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 30.004.

When is a Service of Citation or Notice required on the Title IV-D agency?

  • Service of Citation (TFC§102.009(a)(11))
    • When a petition requests the termination of the parent-child relationship and child support rights have been assigned to the Title IV-D agency.
  • Notice under Rule 21a (TFC § 102.009(d))
    • When a petition requests the establishment, modification, or enforcement of a support right assigned to the Title IV-D agency under Chapter 231.
    • In a rescission of an Acknowledgment of Paternity or Denial of Paternity, if a signatory to the Acknowledgment of Paternity or Denial of Paternity is receiving services from the Title IV-D agency.

When is a Service of Citation or Notice NOT required on a Title IV-D agency?

  • When the Title IV-D agency is not involved in the party's case.
    • Note: Even when the support order directs payments be paid through the State Disbursement Unit (SDU).