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Putative Father Registry

The Ohio Putative Father Registry became effective for children born on or after January 1, 1997 and allows a man who believes he may have fathered a child to establish his right to be notified of adoption-related hearings. His registration entitles him to notification whether or not the birth mother names him as biological father. A man may register anytime prior to the birth of the child, but no later than thirty days after the birth.

If you believe you may be a putative father and you wish to be notified of an adoption proceeding involving a child of whom you are, or may be, the father, you should complete the Putative Father Registration form and return it to the Ohio Putative Father Registry office.