311.25 Good Cause: Verification SR 94-04, 04/94 (FAM-A)

Individuals claiming good cause for refusing to cooperate must submit documentation to verify the claim. Upon request, the District Office will assist individuals in obtaining documents if the individual is unable to do so unassisted. Verification may be based solely on documentation or on documentation and investigation.

Accept any document which reasonably establishes good cause. Sworn statements by themselves do not constitute documentary evidence, but require additional documentation or investigation. If documentation is not available, investigate to establish whether the individual is credible; require the individual to provide more information.

Exceptions:

Physical Harm — Good cause claims due to physical harm are the only claims which may be based solely on sworn statements and investigation, without documentation being present.

Emotional Harm — The assessment of emotional harm must be made by a psychologist or psychiatrist—not by a psychiatric social worker. When an evaluation is requested by the Division, it will be paid for through the Medicaid Program. The individual must participate in an evaluation, if requested. Refusal will result in denial of good cause. Good cause may, in some instances, be determined based on medical records or other readily available documentation which confirm an existing condition that would be aggravated by requiring cooperation.

If further investigation is necessary to decide a good cause claim, the OCSES Support Enforcement Officer may be requested to provide additional information. However, the DFA supervisor must determine it essential before communicating with the absent parent or alleged father.