Child support

I know this probably isn't the place for this, but i don't know anyone to ask. i'm having to put my child's father on child support and have no clue what to even do. do i have to take him to court? or could i just apply for welfare and them take it from him..? in the process of finding a job so i can't really afford a lawyer right now. i need to go the cheapest route. I live in Louisiana. Can anyone who's done this before help me out. 😞 how does filing for welfare work?