Donna -
It was that way in Georgia, too (ex #1). The support order didn't go into effect until both parties signed the papers.
Not the case in Ohio (ex #2). As soon as somebody starts the process, an order for support is issued.
Also, in Ohio ALL child support goes through child support enforcement. In Georgia, it only happens when the custodial parent takes it to them because the non-custodial parent is behind. He could be behind for ever and if s/he pays up before child support enforcement takes action (which in Cobb County GA could take 6 months at that time) they drop it. Then you would have to wait for him to get behind again and start over.
It really burned my ex (#1) when I went through child support enforcement in Ohio. He thought that since he was making payment towards the arrearage (he started doing that 2 months after I contacted CSE), they wouldn't do anything. He was so wrong.
I love it when I'm right. 
Dept of Job and Family Services and child support enforcement's computer systems are linked. If Nichole received cash assistance and/or medicaid, she would have to start the child support process. DJFS would contact CSE to start the process. It's in the Ohio Revised Code. I could have told you what section, but can't remember off the top of my head. It's also required if Aubrey receives medicaid, but they don't enforce it as hard. They're not going to deny a child medical coverage. However, they will deny the adult medicaid if s/he refuses to pursue child support enforcement.
So, as much as I hope Nichole is doing this because she's starting to see the light, I wonder if she's doing it because she's being forced to? (Doesn't she receive medicaid?)
Either way, it's a good thing.
