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 any time prior to the birth of the child, but no later than fifteen (15) 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 JFS 01694 Ohio Putative Father Registry-Registration for Fathers form and return it to the Ohio Putative Father Registry office. For more information, please contact 1-888-313-3100 or visit the Online Putative Father Registry.