There it is. Here it is again: http://jfs.ohio.gov/pfr This is the website that can give you information on how to register as a putative father. And why should you do this? If you are a man, and you know that someone is pregnant with your child (or at least suspect that you are the father), you need to register. And you need to do it right away. If you are registered before 30 days after the birth of the child, you will be notified if the mother attempts to have the child adopted. Adoption is a form of permanently terminating the father's rights to that child. In addition to registering, you must provide support to the mother and child in order for your consent to be required. There are many other legal steps that need to be followed. Therefore, if you are not married to the mother you might want to consult with a lawyer to make sure that you are following the legal steps necessary so that the child cannot be adopted without notice to you or without your consent. There is a very limited window of opportunity, and I would urge anyone in this situation to register. If you ultimately agree with the adoption (after you meet the prospective parents, for example), then you can always consent. But if you don't register, you may never know. So, if you know someone is pregnant with your child, register, and seek the advice of counsel so that you take all steps necessary to protect your future relationship with that child.
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