FOCAS (Focus on Collections and Services) Program

"Child Support" sign The "FOCAS" Program is a partnership between the Domestic Relations Office and the Office of the Attorney General (OAG). Harris County families receive free services to monitor, collect, adjust, or terminate child support and medical support.

Enrollment occurs at the time a party secures a new child support order. A party may enroll by signing the Record of Support Order requesting child support services. Cases where a child is receiving Medicaid or TANF are monitored by the Office of the Attorney General. Five hands painted with smiling faces

The Domestic Relations Office monitors child support and medical support obligations and engages in efforts to ensure compliance. Child support obligations may be adjusted, when appropriate. Support obligations are enforced through income withholdings, tax intercepts, liens, litigation and other methods. In addition, parent locator services; assistance with enrolling children in health insurance plans; employment referrals, and other benefits are provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

	Question	Answer
	How does the FOCAS Program work?	When a divorce or suit affecting the parent-child relationship is finalized in Court, a party must submit a Record of Support Order (Texas Family Code 105.008). Signing the section in the Record of Support Order requesting child support services will automatically enroll them in the FOCAS program. The DRO begins monitoring support and providing services immediately.
	Where can I get the Record of Support Order?	The "Record of Support Order" is available here, at the Harris County District Clerk's website or at the Office of the Attorney General's website.
	When enforcing support, does the DRO represent the custodial parent?	No, the DRO represents the State of Texas.
	I have been served by the FOCAS program. Do I need to hire an attorney?	It is your decision whether to hire an attorney or represent yourself. We do not represent you or the other party. We represent the State of Texas.
	How can my case be included in the free FOCAS Program?	Either party may contact the DRO and request child support services. You may also complete an Application for Child Support Services available on this website.
	If in FOCAS, may a custodial parent hire private counsel to enforce or modify support?	Yes. The custodial parent has discretion to hire private counsel, who will notice the DRO of the pending litigation.
	Will FOCAS enforce possession & access provisions of an Order as well as child support?	No. However, all noncustodial parents who reside in Harris County may apply to the DRO for possession enforcement services. Possession enforcement services are detailed in a different page on this website.
	How do I obtain a copy of my Court Order?	Contact the Harris County District Clerk's Office at 713-755-5758.
	How can I apply to modify the amount of my child support, medical support or dental support?	Only the Court can modify the child, medical or dental support. Grounds for a modification include a material and substantial change in the circumstances of a child or a person affected by the order. Parties in the FOCAS Program may request a review of the ordered child support amounts by contacting the Domestic Relations Office.