Though the statute does not require a search of the Responsible Father Registry until 1 July 2010, it was my belief that attorneys would be able to search the registry starting 1 January 2010. This would have been helpful because it would have immediately eliminated the need to serve John Doe in adoptions case.

I spoke with the general counsel of the South Carolina Department of Social Services concerning whether or not we could immediately start searching the registry. It is my understanding from my conversation with her that we will not be able to access the registry until 1 July 2010. John Doe lives a few more months.

Please read my blog post on the Responsible Father Registry and my blog post of the change in the notice requirement implemented in the Responsible Fathers Registry for a more full picture of how the registry law is going to work.