Ind. Code § 31-27-2-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-27-2-8
Granting of variances and waivers
Status: in_force

Note: This version of section amended by P.L.145-2026, SEC.174, effective 7-1-2026. See also following version of this section amended by P.L.152-2026, SEC.470, effective 7-1-2027.

Sec. 8. (a) Except as provided in subsection (f), the department may grant a variance or waiver of a rule governing child caring institutions, foster family homes, group homes, or child placing agencies. A variance or waiver granted under this section must promote statewide practices and must protect the rights of persons affected by this article.

(b) The department may grant a variance to a rule if an applicant for a license or a licensee under this article does the following:

(1) Submits to the department a written request for the variance in the form and manner specified by the department.

(2) Documents that compliance with an alternative method of compliance approved by the department will not be adverse to the health, safety, or welfare of a child receiving services from the applicant for the variance, as determined by the department.

(c) A variance granted under subsection (b) must be conditioned upon compliance with the alternative method approved by the department. Noncompliance constitutes the violation of a rule of the department and may be the basis for revoking the variance.

(d) The department may grant a waiver of a rule if an applicant for a license or a licensee under this article does the following:

(1) Submits to the department a written request for the waiver in the form and manner specified by the department.

(2) Documents that compliance with the rule specified in the application for the waiver will create an undue hardship on the applicant for the waiver, as determined by the department.

(3) Documents that the applicant for the waiver will be in substantial compliance with the rules adopted by the department after the waiver is granted, as determined by the department.

(4) Documents that noncompliance with the rule specified in the application for a waiver will not be adverse to the health, safety, or welfare of a child receiving services from the applicant for the waiver, as determined by the department.

(e) Except for a variance or waiver of a rule governing foster family homes, a variance or waiver of a rule under this section that conflicts with a building rule or fire safety rule adopted by the fire prevention and building safety commission is not effective until the variance or waiver is approved by the fire prevention and building safety commission.

(f) A waiver may not be granted for an applicant who has been convicted of a nonwaivable offense, as defined in IC 31-9-2.1-168.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.183-2017, SEC.13; P.L.145-2026, SEC.174.
Ind. Code § 31-14-14-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 14 / Section 31-14-14-6
Submissions to the court; court requests for information
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. (a) If a person files a petition to establish or modify parenting time with a child, any person who:

(1) is a party to the parenting time proceeding; and

(2) has knowledge that:

(A) a party to the parenting time proceeding has been determined to be a perpetrator of a substantiated report of child abuse or neglect;

(B) the child named in the petition has been the subject of a substantiated report of child abuse or neglect;

(C) the child named in the petition has been determined to be a child in need of services under IC 31-34; or

(D) the child named in the petition has been involved in an informal adjustment under IC 31-34-8;

shall submit to the court in writing under seal that a party to the parenting time proceeding is a person described in subdivision (2)(A) or the child named in the petition is a child described in subdivision (2)(B), (2)(C), or (2)(D).

(b) A court reviewing a petition to establish or modify parenting time may request information from the department of child services regarding a petition or proceeding described in subsection (a)(2). The department shall provide a response under seal to the court's request for information not later than ten (10) days after the department receives the court's request for the information.

As added by P.L.239-2013, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-19-16-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 16 / Section 31-19-16-8
Revocation of adoption decree barred as sanction for noncompliance with agreement
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. A court may not revoke an adoption decree because a birth parent or an adoptive parent fails to comply with a postadoption contact agreement approved by a court under this chapter.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-13(h).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.196-1997, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-32-3-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-32-3-12
Voluntary preventative program for juveniles
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. (a) The following definitions apply throughout this section:

(1) "Pilot county" means a county selected under subsection (d).

(2) "Voluntary preventative program" refers to a voluntary preventative program under section 11 of this chapter.

(b) The supreme court may establish a pilot program to assist juvenile court judges in five (5) Indiana counties in establishing voluntary preventative programs under section 11 of this chapter for:

(1) at-risk children who are not:

(A) the subject of proceedings over which a juvenile court has jurisdiction; or

(B) participating in a diversionary program or a program of informal adjustment; and

(2) families of children described in subdivision (1).

(c) A pilot program established under subsection (b) may provide assistance that includes:

(1) providing grants to the juvenile court in a pilot county for use in establishing and maintaining a voluntary preventative program;

(2) gathering data and consulting with:

(A) schools;

(B) government; and

(C) business and community leaders;

in a pilot county to determine the needs of children in the county;

(3) assisting in developing and coordinating programs and services offered under the voluntary preventative program; and

(4) engaging in continuing outreach to schools in a pilot county to:

(A) inform schools of the availability of services provided under the voluntary preventative program; and

(B) encourage schools to consider referral of at-risk students to the voluntary preventative program as an adjunct or alternative to disciplinary action by the school.

(d) The five (5) counties selected for participation in a pilot program established under subsection (b) should include:

(1) at least one (1) predominantly urban county; and

(2) at least one (1) predominantly rural county;

selected in collaboration with the department, the office of the secretary of family and social services, the department of education, and the department of workforce development established by IC 22-4.1-2-1.

(e) Nonjudicial state, county, and local governmental bodies, including:

(1) the department;

(2) the department of education; and

(3) the office of the secretary of family and social services;

shall assist the supreme court as needed to implement a pilot program established under subsection (b).

(f) If the Indiana supreme court establishes a pilot program under this section, the office of judicial administration shall issue a report to the legislative council:

(1) for delivery not later than December 1 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which a pilot program is established under subsection (b);

(2) prepared in collaboration with:

(A) the department;

(B) the office of the secretary of family and social services; and

(C) the department of education; and

(3) providing information regarding the pilot program, which may include the following:

(A) An enterprise level assessment of:

(i) wraparound services provided to at-risk children and families of at-risk children in the pilot counties; and

(ii) identified gaps in the services described in item (i).

(B) A recommended framework and roadmap for:

(i) improving coordination of; and

(ii) a systematic, integrated approach in delivering;

the services described in clause (A), including the feasibility of further implementation or expansion of the services.

(C) Suggested metrics for measuring the success of the pilot program that are aligned with strategic goals, including specific accountability mechanisms.

As added by P.L.41-2019, SEC.1. Amended by P.L.156-2020, SEC.115; P.L.213-2025, SEC.300.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25-4.4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-19-25-4.4
Nonrelease forms submitted before July 1, 2018; duration; notice of lapse; effect of consent
Status: in_force

Sec. 4.4. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, a nonrelease form that:

(1) indicates the birth parent's lack of consent to the release of identifying information; and

(2) was submitted by a birth parent before July 1, 2018;

remains in effect for the time indicated by the birth parent on the nonrelease form.

(b) Unless a birth parent has indicated on the nonrelease form that the birth parent does not desire the state registrar to send notice to the birth parent at the time that the birth parent's nonrelease form lapses, the state registrar shall mail a notice to a birth parent who submitted a nonrelease form as described in subsection (a) at least ninety (90) days before the birth parent's nonrelease form lapses indicating that:

(1) the nonrelease form will lapse; and

(2) if the birth parent prefers not to be contacted by a person requesting identifying information, the birth parent must file a contact preference form indicating that the birth parent does not want to be contacted.

(c) A nonrelease form is no longer in effect if the birth parent consents in writing to the release of identifying information and has not withdrawn that consent.

(d) A nonrelease form is no longer in effect if the birth parent who filed the nonrelease form is deceased unless the nonrelease form specifically states that the nonrelease form remains in effect after the birth parent's death.

As added by P.L.3-2016, SEC.17.
Ind. Code § 31-37-11-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-37-11-2
Time for factfinding hearing or waiver hearing
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) If:

(1) a child is in detention; and

(2) a petition has been filed;

a fact-finding hearing or a waiver hearing must be commenced not later than twenty (20) days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, after the petition is filed.

(b) If:

(1) a child is not in detention; and

(2) a petition has been filed;

the hearing must be commenced not later than sixty (60) days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, after the petition is filed.

(c) A child who is ordered detained in the home of the child's parent, guardian, or custodian or who is subject to other conditions of release under IC 31-37-6-6 may not be considered as being detained for purposes of this section.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-6(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.188-1999, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-27-3-15 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-27-3-15
Inspections
Status: in_force

Sec. 15. (a) The department shall do the following:

(1) Make annual onsite inspections.

(2) Keep written records of the monitoring activities and inspections.

(b) The department of homeland security shall perform periodic inspections of child caring institutions.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.28-2026, SEC.40.
Ind. Code § 31-15-2-19 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-15-2-19
Name change by lifetime sex or violent offender
Status: in_force

Sec. 19. (a) This section applies to a lifetime sex or violent offender.

(b) The court may not issue an order restoring the previous married or unmarried name of a lifetime sex or violent offender unless all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The lifetime sex or violent offender sets out the name the offender wishes to be restored.

(2) The lifetime sex or violent offender provides written notice of intent to restore the previous married or unmarried name to the local law enforcement authority in the:

(A) county of conviction; and

(B) county where the person resides.

(c) Upon proof that the notice described in subsection (b)(2) has been properly served, the court shall grant the petition to restore the previous name.

(d) Nothing in this section limits, alters, or affects the authority of the court to enter a dissolution decree as provided in this chapter.

As added by P.L.244-2019, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-14-11-22 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-14-11-22
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-13(i).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Repealed by P.L.207-2013, SEC.40.
Ind. Code § 31-37-20-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 20 / Section 31-37-20-6
Review of child's legal settlement
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. (a) This section applies if a juvenile court reviews the implementation of a decree under this chapter (or IC 31-6-4-19 before its repeal) or any other law concerning a child placed in a state licensed private or public health care facility, child care facility, or foster family home.

(b) The juvenile court shall review the court's findings under IC 31-37-19-26 (or IC 31-6-4-18.5(b) before its repeal) and determine whether circumstances have changed the legal settlement of the child.

(c) If the child's legal settlement has changed, the court shall issue an order that modifies the court's findings of fact concerning the legal settlement of the child.

(d) If the court has not previously made findings of fact concerning legal settlement as provided in IC 31-37-19-26 the court shall make the appropriate findings in the court's order entered under this chapter.

(e) The juvenile court shall comply with the reporting requirements under IC 20-26-11-9 concerning the legal settlement of the child.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-18.5(c) part, (d) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.1-2005, SEC.213.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-144 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-144
"Juvenile detention facility"
Status: in_force

Sec. 144. "Juvenile detention facility", for purposes of the juvenile law, means a facility described in IC 31-31-8-2.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-19-24-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 24 / Section 31-19-24-9
Reports and supporting documents of guardian or court appointed special advocate; confidentiality; release of information
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. (a) Whenever a confidential intermediary obtains information under this chapter, the confidential intermediary shall submit to the court:

(1) a written report; and

(2) any supporting documents;

describing the information obtained by the confidential intermediary.

(b) The information that the confidential intermediary submits to the court under this section:

(1) is confidential; and

(2) may be released to the petitioner only upon a court order under section 10 of this chapter.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-4-22(g).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.196-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-34-21-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-34-21-10
Review of child's legal settlement
Status: in_force

Sec. 10. (a) This section applies when a juvenile court reviews the implementation of a decree under this chapter or any other law concerning a child placed in a state licensed private or public health care facility, child care facility, or foster family home.

(b) The juvenile court shall review the court's findings under IC 31-34-20-5 and determine whether circumstances have changed the legal settlement of the child.

(c) If the child's legal settlement has changed, the court shall issue an order that modifies the court's findings of fact concerning the legal settlement of the child.

(d) If the court has not previously made findings of fact concerning legal settlement as provided in IC 31-34-20-5, the court shall make the appropriate findings in its order entered under this chapter.

(e) The juvenile court shall comply with the reporting requirements under IC 20-26-11-9 concerning the legal settlement of the child.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-18.5(c) part, (d) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.1-2005, SEC.207.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-214 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-214
"Responding state"
Status: in_force

Sec. 214. "Responding state", for purposes of the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act under IC 31-18.5, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-18.5-1-2.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-37-17-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 17 / Section 31-37-17-5
Examinations
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. The juvenile court may do the following:

(1) Authorize an examination of the child under IC 31-32-12.

(2) Make provision for similar examination of the parent, guardian, or custodian if the person gives consent.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-15(e) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-15-7-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-15-7-1
Order for maintenance
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. The court may order maintenance in:

(1) final dissolution of marriage decrees entered under IC 31-15-2-16; and

(2) legal separation decrees entered under IC 31-15-3-9;

after making the findings required by section 2 of this chapter.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-9(c) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7. Amended by P.L.197-1997, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-14-11-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-14-11-8
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-13(g).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Repealed by P.L.207-2013, SEC.26.
Ind. Code § 31-14-13-6.2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-14-13-6.2
Military duties, expedited hearing; allow evidence by electronic means
Status: in_force

Sec. 6.2. (a) Upon a motion of a parent who has received military temporary duty, deployment, or mobilization orders, the court shall hold an expedited hearing to determine or modify the custody of a child or parenting time with a child if the military duties of the parent have a material effect on the parent's ability to appear in person at a regularly scheduled hearing concerning custody or parenting time.

(b) Upon a motion of a parent who has received military temporary duty, deployment, or mobilization orders, the court shall, with reasonable notice, allow the parent to present testimony and evidence by:

(1) telephone;

(2) video teleconference;

(3) Internet; or

(4) other electronic means approved by the court;

in a custody or parenting time proceeding if the military duties of the parent have a material effect on the parent's ability to appear in person at a regularly scheduled hearing concerning custody or parenting time.

As added by P.L.55-2012, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-14-11-17 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-14-11-17
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-13(d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Repealed by P.L.207-2013, SEC.35.
Ind. Code § 31-37-25-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-37-25-1
Eligibility to file petition for no contact order
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. Any of the following may sign and file a petition for the juvenile court to require a person to refrain from direct or indirect contact with a child:

(1) The prosecuting attorney.

(2) A probation officer.

(3) The department of correction.

(4) The guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate.

As added by P.L.133-2002, SEC.38. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.356; P.L.146-2008, SEC.662.
Ind. Code § 31-27-6-20 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-27-6-20
Repealed
Status: repealed

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Repealed by P.L.146-2006, SEC.60.
Ind. Code § 31-37-2-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-37-2-1
Delinquent child defined
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. A child is a delinquent child if, before becoming eighteen (18) years of age, the child:

(1) commits a delinquent act described in this chapter; and

(2) needs care, treatment, or rehabilitation that:

(A) the child is not receiving;

(B) the child is unlikely to accept voluntarily; and

(C) is unlikely to be provided or accepted without the coercive intervention of the court.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-1(b) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-34-21-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-34-21-2
Periodic case review
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) The case of each child in need of services under the supervision of the department must be reviewed at least once every six (6) months, or more often, if ordered by the court.

(b) The first of these periodic case reviews must occur:

(1) at least six (6) months after the date of the child's removal from the child's parent, guardian, or custodian; or

(2) at least six (6) months after the date of the dispositional decree;

whichever comes first.

(c) Each periodic case review must be conducted by the juvenile court in a formal court hearing.

(d) The court may perform a periodic case review any time after a progress report is filed as described in section 1 of this chapter.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-19(b) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.35-1998, SEC.9; P.L.145-2006, SEC.314; P.L.146-2006, SEC.52; P.L.146-2008, SEC.605.
Ind. Code § 31-34-11-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-34-11-1
Factfinding hearing deadline; extension of deadline; right of foster parent or temporary caretaker to notice and opportunity to be heard
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) Except as provided in subsection (b), unless the allegations of a petition have been admitted, the juvenile court shall complete a factfinding hearing not more than sixty (60) days after a petition alleging that a child is a child in need of services is filed in accordance with IC 31-34-9.

(b) The juvenile court may extend the time to complete a factfinding hearing, as described in subsection (a), for an additional sixty (60) days if all parties in the action consent to the additional time.

(c) If the factfinding hearing is not held immediately after the initial hearing as provided under IC 31-34-10-9, the department shall provide notice of any factfinding hearing to each foster parent or other caretaker with whom the child has been placed for temporary care. The court shall provide a person who is required to be notified under this subsection an opportunity to be heard at the factfinding hearing.

(d) If the factfinding hearing is not held within the time set forth in subsection (a) or (b), upon a motion with the court, the court shall dismiss the case without prejudice unless the court finds that the extension is necessitated by:

(1) unanticipated, emergent circumstances;

(2) the circumstances of the case; or

(3) the Indiana Rules of Trial Procedure.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-14(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.146-2006, SEC.46; P.L.138-2007, SEC.71; P.L.48-2012, SEC.59; P.L.179-2025, SEC.14.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-246 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-246
"Transitional services plan"
Status: in_force

Sec. 246. "Transitional services plan", for purposes of IC 31-25-2-21, IC 31-34-15, and IC 31-37-19, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-25-2-21(a).

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-26-4-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-26-4-2
"Board"
Status: in_force

Note: This version of section effective until 7-1-2027. See also following repeal of this section, effective 7-1-2027.

Sec. 2. As used in this chapter, "board" refers to the Indiana kids first trust fund board established by section 5 of this chapter.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.272.
Ind. Code § 31-19-4-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-19-4-6
Putative father not entitled to notice of adoption
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. Except as provided in section 3 of this chapter, if:

(1) on or before the date the mother of a child executes a consent to the child's adoption, the mother does not disclose to the attorney or agency arranging the adoption the identity or address, or both, of the putative father; and

(2) the putative father has not registered with the putative father registry under IC 31-19-5 within the period under IC 31-19-5-12;

the putative father is not entitled to notice of the adoption.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-6.1(h).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-37-11-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-37-11-3
Waiver denied; time for factfinding hearing
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. If waiver is denied, the factfinding hearing must be commenced not later than ten (10) days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, after the denial.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-6(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-19-2-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-19-2-3
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-1(b) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Repealed by P.L.203-2021, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-16-15-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-16-15-5
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-2-10-8(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Repealed by P.L.103-2007, SEC.51.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-71 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-71
"Custodian"
Status: in_force

Sec. 71. (a) "Custodian", for purposes of the juvenile law, means a person with whom a child resides.

(b) "Custodian", for purposes of IC 31-34-1, includes any person who is:

(1) a license applicant or licensee of:

(A) a foster home or residential child care facility that is required to be licensed or is licensed under IC 31-27;

(B) a child care center that is required to be licensed or is licensed under IC 12-17.2-4; or

(C) a child care home that is required to be licensed or is licensed under IC 12-17.2-5;

(2) a person who is responsible for care, supervision, or welfare of children while providing services as an owner, operator, director, manager, supervisor, employee, or volunteer at:

(A) a home, center, or facility described in subdivision (1);

(B) a child care ministry, as defined in IC 12-7-2.1-58, that is exempt from licensing requirements and is registered or required to be registered under IC 12-17.2-6;

(C) a home, center, or facility of a child care provider, as defined in IC 12-7-2.1-267(5);

(D) a home, center, or facility that is the location of a program that provides child care, as defined in section 38 of this chapter, to serve migrant children and that is exempt from licensing under IC 12-17.2-2-8(6), whether or not the program is certified as described in IC 12-17.2-2-9; or

(E) a school, as defined in section 220 of this chapter;

(3) a child caregiver, as defined in section 41 of this chapter;

(4) a member of the household of the child's noncustodial parent; or

(5) an individual who has or intends to have direct contact, on a regular and continuing basis, with a child for whom the individual provides care and supervision.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-15-10-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-15-10-2
Exemption for agencies
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. Neither costs or attorney fees may be taxed against an agency, or the agency's agents, that is authorized to maintain proceedings under this article by Title IV-D of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 651 through 669) and IC 31-25-4-17.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-16(b) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.231.
Ind. Code § 31-27-6-22 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-27-6-22
Repealed
Status: repealed

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Repealed by P.L.146-2006, SEC.60.
Ind. Code § 31-19-5-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-19-5-4
Notice rights of registered persons
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. A putative father of a child who registers in accordance with this chapter (or IC 31-3-1.5 before its repeal) is entitled to notice of the child's adoption under IC 31-19-2.5-6.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1.5-7(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.203-2021, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-19-5-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-19-5-11
Verification; amendment of information
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. A putative father who registers under this chapter is responsible for:

(1) verifying with the state department the accuracy of the registration; and

(2) submitting to the state department an amended registration each time the information supplied by the putative father changes;

during the period specified by section 12 of this chapter.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1.5-11(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.56-2023, SEC.270.
Ind. Code § 31-32-2.5-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 2.5 / Section 31-32-2.5-3
Determination on petition to intervene
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) A court shall grant a petition to intervene filed under this chapter if the court determines that intervention by the petitioner is in the best interests of the child.

(b) A court shall grant a petition filed under this chapter requesting intervention in a child in need of services proceeding under IC 31-34 concerning a child for whom the petitioner is providing care and supervision if the court determines that:

(1) the petitioner has provided care and supervision for the child for at least twelve (12) months following the initial removal of the child from the home of the child's parent, guardian, or custodian, regardless of whether the twelve (12) months during which the petitioner has provided care and supervision for the child were consecutive;

(2) a petition to terminate the parent-child relationship has been filed with regard to the child; or

(3) the child has been removed from the home of the child's parent, guardian, or custodian for at least twelve (12) months and the petitioner has filed a petition for adoption or guardianship of the child.

(c) A court shall grant a petition filed under this chapter requesting intervention in a termination of parent-child relationship proceeding under IC 31-35 concerning a child for whom the petitioner is providing care and supervision.

As added by P.L.210-2019, SEC.7. Amended by P.L.179-2025, SEC.10.
Ind. Code § 31-17-2-14 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-17-2-14
Joint legal custody; division of physical custody
Status: in_force

Sec. 14. An award of joint legal custody under section 13 of this chapter does not require an equal division of physical custody of the child.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-21(f) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-19-25-8
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-4.5-5(d), (e), (f).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.1-1998, SEC.166; P.L.145-2006, SEC.262. Repealed by P.L.191-2011, SEC.57.
Ind. Code § 31-27-6-30 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-27-6-30
Investigation of unlicensed operation; injunctions; civil penalties
Status: in_force

Sec. 30. (a) The department shall investigate a report of an unlicensed child placing agency and report the department's findings to the attorney general and to the local office and the prosecuting attorney in the county where the child placing agency is located.

(b) The attorney general or the department may do the following:

(1) Seek the issuance of a search warrant to assist in the investigation.

(2) File an action for injunctive relief to stop the operation of a child placing agency if there is reasonable cause to believe that the child placing agency is operating without a license required under this article.

(3) Seek in a civil action a civil penalty not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100) a day for each day a child placing agency is operating without a license required under this article.

(c) An opportunity for an informal meeting with the department shall be available after injunctive relief is ordered under subsection (b)(2).

(d) The civil penalties collected under this section shall be deposited in the department of child services child care fund, established by IC 31-25-2-16.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.1-2007, SEC.205; P.L.128-2012, SEC.140.
Ind. Code § 31-28-4-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 28 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-28-4-3
"Appropriate public authorities"; notices; responsibility
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. The "appropriate public authorities" as used in Article III of the interstate compact on the placement of children (section 1 of this chapter), with reference to this state, means the department, and the department shall receive and act with reference to notices required by Article III.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.274.
Ind. Code § 31-37-11-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-37-11-7
Release for noncompliance with time limits
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. If:

(1) a child is in detention; and

(2) the times in sections 1, 2, and 3 of this chapter are not followed;

the child shall be released on the child's own recognizance or to the child's parents, guardian, or custodian.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-6(g).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-16-15-23.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-16-15-23.5
Normal pay and distribution cycles unaffected
Status: in_force

Sec. 23.5. An income payor is not required to vary the income payor's normal pay and distribution cycles in order to comply with this chapter.

As added by P.L.80-2010, SEC.43.
Ind. Code § 31-15-9-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-15-9-2
Costs
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) Except as provided in subsection (b), the parties shall pay the costs of conciliation procedures that the court orders.

(b) If the court determines that the parties will be unable to pay the costs without prejudicing their financial ability to provide themselves and any minor children with economic necessities, the costs shall be paid from the budget of the court.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-19 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-7
"Actual notice"
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. "Actual notice", for purposes of IC 31-19-3, means written notice that is actually received by the putative father.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25.5-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25.5 / Section 31-19-25.5-10
Errors in execution of request or consent
Status: in_force

Sec. 10. The state registrar may contact a person who submits a request or consent under this chapter that is incorrectly or incompletely executed to inform the person regarding the error in the execution of the request or consent.

As added by P.L.191-2011, SEC.55.
Ind. Code § 31-27-6-16 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-27-6-16
Notice of enforcement actions
Status: in_force

Sec. 16. The department shall give a licensee thirty (30) days written notice by certified mail of an enforcement action. The licensee shall also be provided with the opportunity for an informal meeting with the department. The licensee must request the meeting not more than ten (10) working days after receipt of the certified notice.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-27-4-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-27-4-3
Repealed
Status: repealed

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.143-2008, SEC.8; P.L.131-2009, SEC.37; P.L.162-2011, SEC.27. Repealed by P.L.48-2012, SEC.29.
Ind. Code § 31-37-3-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-37-3-4
Advancement of curfew time by local ordinance
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. Whenever a city, town, or county determines that any curfew time established by section 2 or 3 of this chapter is later than is reasonable for public safety under the conditions found to exist in the city, town, or county, the city, town, or county may, by ordinance, advance the curfew time within the jurisdiction of the city, town, or county by not more than two (2) hours.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-2(d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-21-3-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-21-3-6
Limited immunity
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. The immunity granted by section 4 of this chapter does not extend to civil litigation based on acts unrelated to the participation in a proceeding under this article committed by an individual while present in Indiana.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-34-2.3-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 2.3 / Section 31-34-2.3-1
Petition to remove alleged perpetrator of child abuse or neglect from child's residence
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. If, after an investigation, the department determines that:

(1) there is probable cause to believe that a child is a child in need of services; and

(2) the child would be protected in the child's residence by the removal of the alleged perpetrator of child abuse or neglect;

the department may file a petition to remove the alleged perpetrator from the child's residence instead of attempting to remove the child from the child's residence.

As added by P.L.52-2007, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-19-25-5
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-4.5-4(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Repealed by P.L.3-2016, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-39-1-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-39-1-1
Application of chapter
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) This chapter applies to all records of the juvenile court except the following:

(1) Records involving an adult charged with a crime or criminal contempt of court.

(2) Records involving a pregnant minor or her physician seeking a waiver of the requirement under IC 35-1-58.5-2.5 (before its repeal) or IC 16-34-2-4 that a physician who performs an abortion on an unemancipated minor first obtain the written consent of the minor's parent or guardian.

(3) Records involving proceedings that pertain to:

(A) paternity issues;

(B) custody issues;

(C) parenting time issues; or

(D) child support issues;

concerning a child born to parents who are not married to each other.

(b) The legal records subject to this chapter include the following:

(1) Chronological case summaries.

(2) Index entries.

(3) Summonses.

(4) Warrants.

(5) Petitions.

(6) Orders.

(7) Motions.

(8) Decrees.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-8-1(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.22. Amended by P.L.1-2014, SEC.1.
Ind. Code § 31-32-11-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-32-11-1
Admissibility of privileged communications
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. The privileged communication between:

(1) a husband and wife;

(2) a health care provider and the health care provider's patient;

(3) a:

(A) licensed social worker;

(B) licensed clinical social worker;

(C) licensed marriage and family therapist;

(D) licensed mental health counselor;

(E) licensed addiction counselor; or

(F) licensed clinical addiction counselor;

and a client of any of the professionals described in clauses (A) through (F);

(4) a school counselor and a student; or

(5) a school psychologist and a student;

is not a ground for excluding evidence in any judicial proceeding resulting from a report of a child who may be a victim of child abuse or neglect or relating to the subject matter of the report or failing to report as required by IC 31-33.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-11-8.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15. Amended by P.L.122-2009, SEC.30.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-198 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-198
"Reasonable and prudent parent standard"
Status: in_force

Sec. 198. "Reasonable and prudent parent standard", for purposes of IC 31-27, IC 31-34, and IC 31-37, means the standard characterized by careful and sensible parental decisions that maintain the health, safety, and best interests of a child.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-21-6-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-21-6-11
Orders concerning physical custody of a child
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. Unless the court issues a temporary emergency order under IC 31-21-5-4 on a finding that a petitioner is entitled to immediate physical custody of the child, the court shall order that the petitioner may take immediate physical custody of the child unless the respondent establishes that:

(1) the child custody determination has not been registered and confirmed under sections 4 and 5 of this chapter and that:

(A) the issuing court did not have jurisdiction under IC 31-21-5;

(B) the child custody determination for which enforcement is sought has been vacated, stayed, or modified by a court of a state having jurisdiction to do so under IC 31-21-5; or

(C) the respondent was entitled to notice, but notice was not given in accordance with the standards of IC 31-21-3-3 in the proceedings before the court that issued the order for which enforcement is sought; or

(2) the child custody determination for which enforcement is sought was registered and confirmed under sections 4 and 5 of this chapter but has been vacated, stayed, or modified by a court of a state having jurisdiction under IC 31-21-5.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-11-1-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-11-1-1
Same sex marriages prohibited
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) Only a female may marry a male. Only a male may marry a female.

(b) A marriage between persons of the same gender is void in Indiana even if the marriage is lawful in the place where it is solemnized.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-1-2.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3. Amended by P.L.198-1997, SEC.1.
Ind. Code § 31-14-21-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-14-21-11
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-2.2(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Repealed by P.L.200-1999, SEC.34.
Ind. Code § 31-37-6-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-37-6-1
Application of chapter
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) This chapter applies only to a child alleged to be a delinquent child.

(b) This chapter does not apply to a child less than twelve (12) years of age unless:

(1) the child poses an imminent risk of harm to the community; or

(2) the court makes a written finding that detention is essential to protect the community and no reasonable alternatives exist to reduce the risk.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-5(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.101-2022, SEC.12.
Ind. Code § 31-35-3-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-35-3-9
Determination
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. (a) If the court finds that the allegations in a petition described in section 4 of this chapter are true, the court shall terminate the parent-child relationship.

(b) If the court does not find that the allegations in the petition are true, the court shall dismiss the petition.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-5-4.3 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-25-4-33.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-25-4-33.5
Driving privilege reinstatement; suspension
Status: in_force

Sec. 33.5. (a) If the Title IV-D agency finds that an obligor is delinquent and issues an order to the bureau of motor vehicles stating that the obligor is delinquent under section 32(b) or 33(d) of this chapter, the obligor may have the obligor's driving privileges reinstated by making a single payment of either:

(1) if the obligor is required by court order to pay a child support obligation, the equivalent of eight (8) weeks of the child support order to the clerk of the court or the state central collection unit; or

(2) if the obligor is no longer required to pay a child support obligation but has a child support arrearage, the equivalent of eight (8) weeks of the most recent child support order or the full amount of the child support arrearage, whichever is less, to the clerk of the court or the state central collection unit.

(b) If the court ordered support obligation cannot be determined for an obligor, the obligor shall contact the Title IV-D agency enforcing the child support order to reach an agreement for a payment amount that must be paid for the obligor to have the obligor's driving privileges reinstated.

(c) Once the obligor pays the required amount under subsection (a) or (b), the obligor shall provide proof of payment to the Title IV-D agency enforcing the child support order. Within seven (7) days of confirming the obligor's payment, the Title IV-D agency shall issue an order to the bureau of motor vehicles to reinstate the obligor's driving privileges.

(d) If multiple orders have been issued by the Title IV-D agency to the bureau of motor vehicles to suspend the obligor's driving privileges, the obligor must make a required payment under subsection (a) in each case where an order to suspend the obligor's driving privileges is issued to have those suspensions of the obligor's driving privileges lifted.

(e) The Title IV-D agency shall monitor compliance with the court ordered child support obligation for a period of sixty (60) days after the obligor's driving privileges are reinstated. After the period of sixty (60) days, if the obligor has failed to comply with the child support order and is again delinquent, as defined by section 2 of this chapter, the Title IV-D agency may again initiate the process to suspend the obligor's driving privileges under section 32 of this chapter.

(f) This section does not prevent the:

(1) Title IV-D agency from entering into and enforcing a child support payment agreement with the obligor, including suspension of the child support obligor's driver's license; or

(2) obligor from filing a petition for specialized driving privileges under IC 9-30-16.

As added by P.L.86-2021, SEC.21. Amended by P.L.9-2022, SEC.63.
Ind. Code § 31-34-5-1.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-34-5-1.5
Hearing after emergency medical services provider takes custody of a child; notification; petition alleging a child is a child in need of services
Status: in_force

Sec. 1.5. (a) This section applies to a child taken into custody under IC 31-34-2.5.

(b) The juvenile court shall hold a detention hearing after an emergency medical services provider takes custody of a child under IC 31-34-2.5. The court shall hold the detention hearing not later than forty-eight (48) hours after the emergency medical services provider takes the child into custody, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and any day on which a legal holiday is observed for state employees as provided under IC 1-1-9. A petition alleging that a child described in subsection (a) is a child in need of services shall be filed before the detention hearing is held for the child.

(c) The department may notify the emergency medical services provider that has taken emergency custody of a child under IC 31-34-2.5 of the detention hearing. The emergency medical services provider may be heard at the detention hearing.

(d) The department shall notify each foster parent or other caretaker with whom the child has been temporarily placed under IC 31-34-2.5 of the detention hearing. The court shall:

(1) provide a person who is required to be notified under this subsection an opportunity to be heard; and

(2) allow a person described in subdivision (1) to make recommendations to the court;

at the detention hearing.

As added by P.L.217-2001, SEC.7. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.292; P.L.138-2007, SEC.69; P.L.131-2009, SEC.61.
Ind. Code § 31-16-12.5-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 12.5 / Section 31-16-12.5-2
Petition; procedure; intervention
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) A custodial parent may file a petition for a setoff of child support from a state income tax refund payable to a child support obligor in:

(1) the court that entered the original child support order; or

(2) a court of competent jurisdiction located in the county of residence of the custodial parent.

(b) The petition must be verified and must include all of the following:

(1) The full name of:

(A) the obligor;

(B) the custodial parent; and

(C) each child to whom the obligor owes child support.

(2) An averment that:

(A) the obligor's aggregate child support arrearage on the date the petition is filed is at least one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500); and

(B) the obligor has intentionally violated the terms of the most recent child support order.

(3) An indication of whether the custodial parent:

(A) has received or is receiving assistance under the Title IV-A program; or

(B) has assigned child support payments under IC 12-14-7-1;

during the period for which child support is owed by the obligor.

(c) The court shall notify the child support bureau of the department of the pendency of an action under this chapter if the petition:

(1) indicates under subsection (b)(3)(A) that the custodial parent has received or is receiving assistance; or

(2) indicates under subsection (b)(3)(B) that an assignment has occurred.

(d) The state has a right to intervene as a party in a hearing under this chapter if the custodial parent has received or is receiving assistance as described in subsection (b)(3)(A) or if an assignment as described in subsection (b)(3)(B) has occurred.

As added by P.L.27-2004, SEC.4. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.238.
Ind. Code § 31-19-5-23 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-19-5-23
Confidentiality of registry information
Status: in_force

Sec. 23. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, information contained within the registry is confidential.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1.5-20.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-33-3-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-33-3-6
Review of child abuse and neglect cases and complaints
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. The community child protection team may receive and review:

(1) any case that the department has been involved in within the county where the team presides; and

(2) complaints regarding child abuse and neglect cases that are brought to the team by a person or an agency.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-11-15(h).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.105.
Ind. Code § 31-37-19-15 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-37-19-15
Delinquent acts involving controlled or counterfeit substances or prescription drugs; denial of learner's permit
Status: in_force

Sec. 15. (a) This section applies if a child is a delinquent child under IC 31-37-1 due to the commission of a delinquent act that, if committed by an adult, would be:

(1) dealing in:

(A) a controlled substance (as defined in IC 35-48-1.1-7); or

(B) a counterfeit substance (as defined in IC 35-48-1.1-9);

(2) possessing:

(A) a controlled substance (as defined in IC 35-48-1.1-7); or

(B) a prescription drug (as defined in IC 35-48-1.1-35);

for which the child does not have a prescription; or

(3) conspiring to commit an act described in subdivision (1) or (2).

(b) The juvenile court shall, in addition to any other order or decree the court makes under this chapter, order the bureau of motor vehicles not to issue the child a learner's permit for a period specified by the court of at least six (6) months but not more than one (1) year from the time the child would otherwise be eligible for a learner's permit.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-15.9(e) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.186-2025, SEC.165.
Ind. Code § 31-12-1-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 12 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-12-1-1
Determination of necessity to establish court
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) This chapter applies only in judicial circuits in which the judges of the superior and circuit courts determine that:

(1) the social conditions in the county; and

(2) the number of domestic relations cases in the courts;

make the procedures provided in this chapter necessary for the full and proper consideration of the cases and to carry out this chapter.

(b) The majority of the judges of the superior and circuit courts in each judicial circuit shall make the determination under subsection (a) annually in January.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-23-1.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-12-1.5-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 12 / Chapter 1.5 / Section 31-12-1.5-6
Application of domestic relations courts provisions
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. IC 31-12-1-6 through IC 31-12-1-16 apply to a domestic relations court established under this chapter.

As added by P.L.80-2006, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-27-9-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-27-9-2
Childrens' records; health exam; dental exam; immunization
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) A licensee shall obtain from the placing agency or placing parent a statement indicating whether or not the child has, to the best of the agency's or parent's knowledge, been exposed to a communicable disease within twenty-one (21) days before the date of admission.

(b) Each child must receive a health examination by a licensed professional within ninety-three (93) days before admission, or not later than twenty-one (21) days after admission. The examination must include the following:

(1) Health history.

(2) Physical examination.

(3) Vision and hearing screening.

(4) A test for tuberculosis if the last such test is known to be negative or if there is no record of a test. If the test is positive the child shall have a diagnostic chest x-ray and other indicated laboratory tests to determine whether or not the disease is in an infectious state.

(5) A written statement from the licensed professional that in the professional's opinion there is no health condition that would be hazardous either to the child or to other children in the licensee's care.

(6) A statement of the medical findings, including physical defects and need for dental care, state of development, and ability of the child to take part in group activities, or a schedule of permitted activities if activities need to be limited.

(7) A health examination, including a tuberculosis screen annually and a tuberculosis test whenever there is reason to suspect that the child may have a condition hazardous or potentially hazardous to others or whenever the child's general condition indicates the need for an examination.

(c) Each child must receive a dental examination from a licensed dentist as follows:

(1) Within forty-five (45) days of admission unless the child caring institution has documentation of a dental examination within the one hundred eighty-five (185) days before admission.

(2) Annually.

(3) Whenever an interim condition indicates the need for examination or treatment.

(d) Any treatment or corrective measures required by the licensed professional or dentist must be arranged by the licensee, as approved by a parent, legal guardian, or placing agency.

(e) This subsection does not apply to an emergency shelter or an emergency shelter group home. A licensee, after attempting to determine the child's immunization history, shall ensure that each child has received all immunizations and booster shots which are required under IC 20-34-4-2(c)(1).

(f) All children must be immunized against routine childhood diseases unless exempted by a licensed professional's statement.

(g) A child may be exempted from immunizations against routine childhood diseases upon the good faith religious belief statement of the parent or guardian.

(h) The adequate immunizing doses and the child's age for administering each vaccine under subsection (e) must be those recommended by the Indiana department of health.

(i) Adequate documentation of an immunization history must consist of one (1) of the following:

(1) A licensed professional's certificate, including the number and dates of doses administered.

(2) Immunization records forwarded from a school corporation, including the number and dates of doses administered.

(3) A record maintained by the parent or guardian showing the month, day, and year during which each dose of vaccine was administered.

(j) If a licensed professional certifies in writing that a particular immunization required under this section is detrimental, or may be detrimental, to the child's health, the requirements for that particular immunization are not applicable for that child until the immunization is found no longer to be detrimental to the child's health.

(k) A licensee shall maintain a health record for each child. The record must include the following:

(1) Admission and periodic health and dental examination information.

(2) A licensed professional's written instructions with regard to special dietary or health care required.

(3) Record of all medications and treatments.

(4) Record of observations and incidents, including accidents, injuries, or any other condition which may be associated with a health condition or possible abuse or neglect.

As added by P.L.109-2024, SEC.12. Amended by P.L.81-2025, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-30-2-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 30 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-30-2-3
Sua sponte reinstatement of court's jurisdiction; modification of decree
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. After receiving notification under section 2 of this chapter (or IC 31-6-2-3(b) before its repeal), a juvenile court may within thirty (30) days after notification, on the court's own motion, reinstate jurisdiction over the child for the purpose of modifying under IC 31-34-23 or IC 31-37-22 the court's original dispositional decree.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-2-3(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-16-8-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-16-8-4
Petition to modify child support order based on incarceration
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. If:

(1) a petition to modify a child support order based on incarceration of a party is filed; and

(2) no party files an objection or request for a hearing within thirty (30) days after receiving notice;

the court may modify the child support order, or approve a proposed modification, without holding a hearing.

As added by P.L.94-2018, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-34-3-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-34-3-2
Procedures for notice; custodial parent, guardian, or custodian who cannot be located
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. Subject to section 3 of this chapter, if after making a reasonable effort the child's custodial parent, guardian, or custodian cannot be located, the department of child services shall make a good faith effort, not more than six (6) hours after the child has been taken into custody, to leave written notice at the last known address of the child's custodial parent, guardian, or custodian that the child has been taken into custody.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-4.5(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.173.
Ind. Code § 31-16-12-10.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-16-12-10.5
Title IV-D agency required to provide information
Status: in_force

Sec. 10.5. The Title IV-D agency shall provide the full name, date of birth, verified address, and Social Security number or driver's license number of the person who is the subject of an order under:

(1) section 7 of this chapter to the bureau of motor vehicles;

(2) section 8 of this chapter to the board regulating the person's profession or occupation;

(3) section 9 of this chapter to the Indiana horse racing commission or the Indiana gaming commission; and

(4) section 10 of this chapter to the commissioner of the department of insurance.

As added by P.L.207-2013, SEC.49.
Ind. Code § 31-35-1.5-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 1.5 / Section 31-35-1.5-8
Conditions under which parents' consent implied
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. Both parents' consent to termination of the parent-child relationship is irrevocably implied without further court action if:

(1) neither parent has filed a petition for custody or responded to the notice to unnamed putative parent published under section 6 of this chapter; and

(2) at least twenty-eight (28) days have passed since the department or the licensed child placing agency has taken custody of the safe haven infant.

As added by P.L.45-2023, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-14-16-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 16 / Section 31-14-16-3
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-12.5(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Repealed by P.L.133-2002, SEC.69.
Ind. Code § 31-11-1-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-11-1-7
Petition for marriage of individual 16 or 17 years of age; evidentiary hearing; emancipation
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) A minor who is sixteen (16) or seventeen (17) years of age may petition the juvenile court in the county in which the minor resides for an order granting the minor approval to marry and completely emancipating the minor. The petition must contain the following information:

(1) The minor's name, gender, and age.

(2) Documentary proof of the minor's date of birth.

(3) The minor's address, and how long the minor has resided at that address.

(4) The following information with regard to the intended spouse:

(A) The intended spouse's name, gender, and age.

(B) Documentary proof of the intended spouse's date of birth.

(C) The intended spouse's address, and how long the intended spouse has resided at that address.

(5) A statement of:

(A) the reasons the minor desires to marry;

(B) how the minor and the intended spouse came to know each other; and

(C) how long the minor and the intended spouse have known each other.

(6) Copies of:

(A) any criminal records of the minor and of the intended spouse; and

(B) any protective order:

(i) issued to protect or restrain either the minor or the intended spouse; and

(ii) relating to domestic or family violence, a sexual offense, or stalking.

(7) Evidence that the minor has demonstrated maturity and capacity for self-sufficiency and self-support independent of the minor's parents or legal guardians or the intended spouse, including proof that the minor:

(A) has graduated from high school;

(B) has obtained a high school equivalency diploma;

(C) has a plan for continued education;

(D) has completed a vocational training or certificate program;

(E) has attained a professional licensure or certification; or

(F) has maintained stable housing or employment for at least three (3) consecutive months prior to filing the petition.

(b) A court with which a petition under subsection (a) is filed shall:

(1) set a date for an evidentiary hearing on the petition;

(2) provide reasonable notice of the hearing to the minor and the minor's parents or legal guardians; and

(3) appoint an attorney to serve as guardian ad litem for the minor.

(c) At the evidentiary hearing, the court shall conduct an in camera interview with the minor separate from the minor's parents or legal guardians and intended spouse.

(d) Following the evidentiary hearing, and subject to subsection (e), the court may grant the petition if the court finds all of the following:

(1) The minor is a county resident who is at least sixteen (16) years of age.

(2) The intended spouse is not more than four (4) years older than the minor.

(3) The minor's decision to marry is voluntary, and free from force, fraud, or coercion.

(4) The minor is mature enough to make a decision to marry.

(5) The minor has established the minor's capacity to be self-sufficient and self-supporting independent of the minor's parents, legal guardians, and intended spouse.

(6) The minor understands the rights and responsibilities of parties to marriage and of completely emancipated minors.

(7) It is in the best interests of the minor for the court to grant the petition to marry and to completely emancipate the minor. In making the determination under this subdivision, the court shall consider how marriage and emancipation may affect the minor's health, safety, education, and welfare.

A court that grants a petition under this section shall issue written findings regarding the court's conclusions under subdivisions (1) through (7).

(e) The following, considered independently or together, are not sufficient to determine the best interests of a minor for purposes of this section:

(1) The fact that the minor or the intended spouse is pregnant or has had a child.

(2) The wishes of the parents or legal guardians of the minor.

However, there is a rebuttable presumption that marriage and emancipation are not in the best interests of the minor if both parents of the minor oppose the minor's marriage and emancipation.

(f) The juvenile court shall deny a petition under this section if the court finds any of the following:

(1) The intended spouse:

(A) is or was in a position of authority or special trust in relation to the minor; or

(B) has or had a professional relationship with the minor, as defined in IC 35-42-4-7.

(2) The intended spouse has been convicted of, or entered into a diversion program for, an offense under IC 35-42:

(A) that involves an act of violence;

(B) of which a child was the victim; or

(C) that is an offense under:

(i) IC 35-42-3.5; or

(ii) IC 35-42-4.

(3) Either the minor or the intended spouse is pregnant or is the mother of a child, and the court finds by a preponderance of evidence that:

(A) the other party to the marriage is the father of the child or unborn child; and

(B) the conception of the child or unborn child resulted from the commission of an offense under:

(i) IC 35-42-4-3 (child molesting);

(ii) IC 35-42-4-6 (child solicitation);

(iii) IC 35-42-4-7 (child seduction); or

(iv) IC 35-42-4-9 (sexual misconduct with a minor).

(4) The intended spouse has previously been enjoined by a protective order relating to domestic or family violence, a sexual offense, or stalking, regardless of whether the person protected by the order was the minor.

(g) If a court grants a petition under this section, the court shall also issue an order of complete emancipation of the minor and provide a certified copy of the order to the minor.

(h) A minor emancipated under this section is considered to have all the rights and responsibilities of an adult, except as provided under specific constitutional or statutory age requirements that apply to the minor because of the minor's age, including requirements related to voting, use of alcoholic beverages or tobacco products, and other health and safety regulations.

(i) A court hearing a petition under this section may issue any other order the court considers appropriate for the minor's protection.

(j) A court that grants a petition under this section may require that both parties to the marriage complete premarital counseling with a marriage and family therapist licensed under IC 25-22.5, IC 25-23.6-8, or IC 25-33.

(k) A court that grants a petition under this section may impose any other condition on the grant of the petition that the court determines is reasonable under the circumstances.

As added by P.L.94-2020, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-27-2-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-27-2-9
Expiration of variances and waivers
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. A waiver or variance granted under section 8 of this chapter and a waiver or variance renewed under section 10 of this chapter expires on the earliest of the following:

(1) The date when the license affected by the waiver or variance expires.

(2) The date set by the department for the expiration of the waiver or variance.

(3) The occurrence of the event set by the department for the expiration of the waiver or variance.

(4) Four (4) years after the date that the waiver or variance becomes effective.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-3-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-18.5-3-12
Nondisclosure of information in exceptional circumstances
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. If a party alleges in an affidavit or a pleading under oath that the health, safety, or liberty of a party or child would be jeopardized by disclosure of specific identifying information, that information must be sealed and may not be disclosed to the other party or the public. After a hearing in which a tribunal takes into consideration the health, safety, or liberty of the party or child, the tribunal may order disclosure of information that the tribunal determines to be in the interest of justice.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-42-1-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 42 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-42-1-5
Civil relief
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. Relief against the governmental entity may include any of the following:

(1) Declaratory relief.

(2) Injunctive relief.

(3) Compensatory damages.

(4) Reasonable attorney's fees and costs.

As added by P.L.101-2025, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25-20 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-19-25-20
Fee for services; fee for actual expenses
Status: in_force

Sec. 20. (a) A local office, a licensed child placing agency, or an attorney may charge a reasonable fee for services performed or actual expenses incurred under section 19 of this chapter.

(b) The following persons may charge a reasonable fee for actual expenses incurred in complying with this chapter:

(1) A licensed child placing agency.

(2) The court.

(3) The department.

(4) A local office.

(5) A professional health care provider.

(6) An attorney.

(7) The Indiana department of health.

As added by P.L.191-2011, SEC.53. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.83; P.L.56-2023, SEC.294.
Ind. Code § 31-33-7-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-33-7-7
Law enforcement agency investigation and communication of information
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) When a law enforcement agency receives an initial report under IC 31-33-5-4 that a child may be a victim of child abuse or neglect, the law enforcement agency shall:

(1) immediately communicate the report to the department, whether or not the law enforcement agency has reason to believe there exists an imminent danger to the child's health or welfare; and

(2) conduct an immediate, onsite assessment of the report along with the department whenever the law enforcement agency has reason to believe that an offense has been committed.

(b) In all cases, the law enforcement agency shall forward any information, including copies of assessment reports, on incidents of cases in which a child may be a victim of child abuse or neglect, whether or not obtained under this article, to:

(1) the department; and

(2) the juvenile court under IC 31-34-7.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-11-12.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.115; P.L.131-2009, SEC.41.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-252 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-252
"Unsubstantiated"
Status: in_force

Sec. 252. "Unsubstantiated", for purposes of IC 31-33 and IC 31-39-8-4, means a determination regarding the status of a report made under IC 31-33 whenever facts obtained during an assessment of the report provide credible evidence that child abuse or neglect has not occurred.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-19-5-25 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-19-5-25
Release or request for confidential information
Status: in_force

Sec. 25. (a) A person who knowingly or intentionally releases or requests confidential information in violation of this chapter commits a Class A misdemeanor.

(b) It is a defense under this section if the state registrar releases confidential information while acting:

(1) in good faith; and

(2) with reasonable diligence.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1.5-21(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-233 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-233
"STEVE system"
Status: in_force

Sec. 233. "STEVE system", for purposes of IC 31-19-20, IC 31-19-25, and IC 31-19-25.5, refers to the State and Territorial Exchange of Vital Events Exchange System, administered by the National Association for Public Health Statistics and Information Systems.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-31-10-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 31 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-31-10-1
Maintenance of information
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. The probation department for the juvenile court shall maintain information relating to delinquent children and children in need of services who receive juvenile law services.

As added by P.L.55-1997, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-35-6-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-35-6-3
Referral for adoption; effect of appeal of decision terminating parent-child relationship
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. An appeal of a court's decision regarding the termination of the parent-child relationship does not prevent the court in the court's discretion from referring the matter for adoption proceedings while the appeal is pending.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-5-5(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-40-1-3.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 40 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-40-1-3.5
Payment by parent or guardian for cost of services provided by department of correction
Status: in_force

Sec. 3.5. (a) If a juvenile court:

(1) adjudicates a child to be a delinquent child; and

(2) awards wardship of the child to the department of correction;

the juvenile court may conduct a hearing. The juvenile court shall use the Child Support Rules and Guidelines of the Indiana supreme court and the child support obligation worksheet developed by the Indiana supreme court to determine what each parent should pay for the services provided for the child under this section. If the parent participates with the treatment plans developed by the department of correction, the parent or parents are entitled to receive a parenting time credit under the Child Support Rules and Guidelines. The hearing may be conducted before or after the department of correction incurs costs for a child.

(b) Each parent shall, before a hearing under subsection (a), furnish the juvenile court and the department of correction with an accurately completed and current child support obligation worksheet on the same form that is prescribed by the Indiana supreme court for child support orders.

(c) A juvenile court may not order a parent to pay or reimburse the department of correction unless the juvenile court makes a specific finding that the parent is able to pay.

(d) If, after a hearing, the juvenile court orders a parent to pay or reimburse costs, the parent is financially responsible for the costs of treatment services incurred by the department of correction.

(e) Any parental reimbursement obligation under this section shall be paid directly to the clerk of the court so long as the juvenile delinquency case is open. The clerk of the court shall keep track of all payments made by each parent and shall provide a receipt for each payment received. At the end of the juvenile delinquency action, the clerk of the court shall provide an accounting of payments received, and the juvenile court may consider additional evidence of payment activity and determine the amount of parental reimbursement obligation that remains unpaid. The juvenile court shall reduce the unpaid balance to a final judgment that may be enforced in any court having jurisdiction over such matters.

(f) After a judgment for unpaid parental reimbursement obligation is rendered, payments made toward satisfaction of the judgment shall be made to the clerk of the court in the county where the enforcement action is filed and shall be forwarded promptly to the department of correction in the same manner as any other judgment payment.

(g) The department of correction may compromise a claim owed by a parent under this section. The department of correction, after obtaining the advice of the attorney general, may notify the court of a parental reimbursement obligation that is willfully ignored.

(h) Upon release from the department of correction, the parental reimbursement obligation payment to the department of correction ends. If there was a child support order for the child adjudicated delinquent, it reverts to the most recent child support order in effect before the child's adjudication. If the child is placed with a person other than a custodial parent, the juvenile court shall establish a new support order for the benefit of the child being released from the department of correction.

(i) The department of correction shall deposit money collected under this section in the division of youth services transitional services fund established by IC 11-10-2-11.

As added by P.L.204-2011, SEC.4. Amended by P.L.151-2023, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-33-8-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-33-8-11
Law enforcement agency's duty to release information to department of child services
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. In all cases, the law enforcement agency shall release information on an incident in which a child may be a victim of alleged child abuse or neglect, whether obtained under this article or not, to the department.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-11-11(l).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.125.
Ind. Code § 31-32-5-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-32-5-4
Waiver of rights during custodial interrogation
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. In determining whether any waiver of rights during custodial interrogation was made knowingly and voluntarily, the juvenile court shall consider all the circumstances of the waiver, including the following:

(1) The child's physical, mental, and emotional maturity.

(2) Whether the child or the child's parent, guardian, custodian, or attorney understood the consequences of the child's statements.

(3) Whether the child and the child's parent, guardian, or custodian had been informed of the delinquent act with which the child was charged or of which the child was suspected.

(4) The length of time the child was held in custody before consulting with the child's parent, guardian, or custodian.

(5) Whether there was any coercion, force, or inducement.

(6) Whether the child and the child's parent, guardian, or custodian had been advised of the child's right to remain silent and to the appointment of counsel.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-3(d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-34-5-3.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-34-5-3.5
Release of a child; conditions
Status: in_force

Sec. 3.5. If the juvenile court releases a child to the child's parent, guardian, or custodian under section 3 of this chapter, the court may impose conditions on the child or the child's parent, guardian, or custodian to ensure the safety of the child's physical or mental health.

As added by P.L.146-2006, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-19-25-10
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-4.5-5(j).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Repealed by P.L.191-2011, SEC.57.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-2
"Abandoned"
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. "Abandoned", for purposes of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act under IC 31-21, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-21-2-2.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-19-16.5-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 16.5 / Section 31-19-16.5-1
Order for postadoption sibling contact
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. At the time an adoption decree is entered, the court entering the decree may order the adoptive parents to provide specific postadoption contact for an adopted child who is at least two (2) years of age with a pre-adoptive sibling if:

(1) the court determines that the postadoption contact would serve the best interests of the adopted child; and

(2) each adoptive parent consents to the court's order for postadoption contact privileges.

As added by P.L.196-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-11-4-13 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-11-4-13
Duty to present marriage license to individual authorized to solemnize marriages
Status: in_force

Sec. 13. Individuals who intend to marry each other must present a marriage license that is issued under this chapter to an individual who is authorized by IC 31-11-6 to solemnize marriages.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-3-12.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-15-6-13 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-15-6-13
User fee; report of receipt of payment
Status: in_force

Sec. 13. If the court orders either or both parents to pay the user fee according to section 11(2) or 11(3) of this chapter, the program or the individual or attorney guardian ad litem shall report to the court the receipt of payment not later than thirty (30) days after receiving the payment.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-28(l).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-6
"Active duty"
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. "Active duty", for purposes of IC 31-14-13-6.3, IC 31-17-2-21.3, IC 31-33-8-7, and IC 31-33-14-3, means full-time service in:

(1) the armed forces of the United States (as defined in IC 5-9-4-3); or

(2) the National Guard (as defined in IC 5-9-4-4);

for a period that exceeds thirty (30) consecutive days in a calendar year.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-60 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-60
"Contact performance form"
Status: in_force

Sec. 60. "Contact preference form" means the form prescribed by the state registrar under IC 31-19-25-4.6.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-19-13-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-19-13-2
Replacement of original registration of birth; filing; confidentiality
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. When a new certificate of birth is established following adoption, the new certificate of birth replaces the original registration of birth. The original registration of birth shall be filed with the evidence of adoption and withheld from inspection except:

(1) for a child adopted by a stepparent; or

(2) as provided in IC 31-19-17 through IC 31-19-25.5.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-12(f).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.191-2011, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-25-4-19.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-25-4-19.5
Title IV-D agency collection fee
Status: in_force

Sec. 19.5. (a) If a Title IV-D agency collects child support payments of at least the threshold amount established under 42 U.S.C. 654(6) on behalf of an individual who has never received Title IV-A assistance, the Title IV-D agency shall collect a fee in accordance with 42 U.S.C. 654(6). The Title IV-D agency may collect the fee by issuance and implementation of an income withholding order.

(b) The Title IV-D agency shall collect the fee described in subsection (a) from one (1) of the following:

(1) Any amount of child support payments that exceeds the threshold amount established under 42 U.S.C. 654(6) and collected on behalf of the individual who applied for the services of collecting the child support payments.

(2) The parent who owes the child support obligation being enforced by the Title IV-D agency.

(3) State funds appropriated for the purpose of paying a fee under subsection (a).

As added by P.L.103-2007, SEC.46. Amended by P.L.243-2019, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-27-6-25 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-27-6-25
Repealed
Status: repealed

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Repealed by P.L.128-2012, SEC.136.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-1-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-18.5-1-1
Title
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. This article may be cited as the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-26 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-26
"Board"
Status: in_force

Sec. 26. (a) "Board", for purposes of IC 31-25-4, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-25-4-34(a).

(b) "Board", for purposes of IC 31-26-4, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-26-4-2.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-12-1-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 12 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-12-1-9
Appointment of referees, counselors, assistants, and clerks; compensation; expenses
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. (a) In each of the judicial circuits in which this chapter applies, judges of the superior and circuit courts may appoint one (1) or more professionally qualified domestic relations:

(1) referees;

(2) counselors;

(3) assistants; and

(4) clerks;

as are considered necessary to serve at the pleasure of the appointing judge.

(b) The appointing judge shall fix the compensation and expense of the personnel appointed under this chapter, which shall be paid out of the county general fund.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-23-5.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-39-8-3.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-39-8-3.5
Automatic expungement of certain juvenile offenses
Status: in_force

Sec. 3.5. (a) This section does not apply to the records of a child adjudicated a delinquent child for committing an act that would be:

(1) a felony if committed by an adult;

(2) a violation of IC 35-47-2; or

(3) a violation of IC 35-47-10.

(b) This section applies to the records of a child adjudicated a delinquent child after June 30, 2021.

(c) When a child reaches nineteen (19) years of age, or one (1) year after the date on which the juvenile court discharges the child under IC 31-37-20-7, whichever is later, the court shall, on its own motion and without holding a hearing, order expungement of the records relating to the child's delinquency adjudication that are not excluded under subsection (a) within sixty (60) days, unless the court finds, based on the nature of the delinquent act and the needs of the child, that automatic expungement under this section would not serve the interests of justice.

(d) The expungement provisions in this section supplement and are in addition to expungement provisions located elsewhere in this chapter. A person entitled to expungement of delinquency records under this section may also seek expungement under any other applicable section of this chapter.

As added by P.L.157-2021, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-19-10-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-19-10-1
Persons permitted to contest adoption; deadline for filing motion to contest; contents of motion to contest
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) Except as provided in subsection (c), only a person entitled to notice of adoption under IC 31-19-4 or IC 31-19-4.5 may contest an adoption.

(b) A person contesting an adoption must file a motion to contest the adoption in writing with the court in which the petition for adoption is filed not later than fifteen (15) days after service of notice of the pending adoption. The motion must set forth the basis on which the person is contesting the adoption.

(c) A person seeking to withdraw consent to an adoption must file a motion to withdraw consent to the adoption in writing with the court in which the petition for adoption is filed. The motion must set forth the basis on which the person is seeking to withdraw consent.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-6.3(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.197-1997, SEC.20; P.L.61-2003, SEC.15; P.L.203-2021, SEC.19; P.L.89-2023, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-37-10-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-37-10-1
Standing
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. The prosecuting attorney may file a petition alleging that a child is a delinquent child.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-9(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.146-2008, SEC.633.
Ind. Code § 31-27-2-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-27-2-10-b
Renewal of variances and waivers
Status: in_force

Note: This version of section effective 7-1-2027. See also preceding version of this section, effective until 7-1-2027.

Sec. 10. (a) If the department determines that a waiver or variance expiring under section 9 of this chapter will continue to serve the public interest, the department may do the following:

(1) Renew the waiver or variance without modifications.

(2) Renew and modify the waiver or variance as needed to promote statewide practices and to protect the rights of persons affected by this chapter.

(b) Before taking an action under subsection (a), the department may require a licensee under this article to do the following:

(1) Apply for the renewal of a waiver or variance on the form specified by the department.

(2) Provide the information required by the department.

(c) Except for a variance or waiver of a rule governing foster family homes, before taking an action under subsection (a), the department must obtain the approval of the department of homeland security, or if applicable, the state building commissioner, for the action if either of the following occurs:

(1) The department of homeland security or state building commissioner changes a building requirement or fire safety rule adopted by the department of homeland security affected by the waiver or variance after the date the department of homeland security or state building commissioner last approved the waiver or variance.

(2) The department substantially modifies any part of a waiver or variance that conflicts with a building rule or fire safety rule adopted by the department of homeland security.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.152-2026, SEC.471.
Ind. Code § 31-25-6-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-25-6-2
Telephone contacts requirements
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. The telephone contacts required by section 1 of this chapter must meet the following requirements:

(1) Be available to family case managers statewide.

(2) Be able to provide assistance and be available on a twenty-four (24) hour, seven (7) day per week basis.

As added by P.L.210-2019, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-32-2-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-32-2-3
Rights of parent, guardian, or custodian
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) This section applies to the following proceedings:

(1) Proceedings to determine whether a child is a child in need of services.

(2) Proceedings to determine whether the parent, guardian, or custodian of a child should participate in a program of care, treatment, or rehabilitation for the child.

(3) Proceedings to determine whether the parent or guardian of the estate of a child should be held financially responsible for any services provided to the parent or guardian or the child of the parent or guardian.

(4) Proceedings to terminate the parent-child relationship.

(b) A parent, guardian, or custodian is entitled:

(1) to cross-examine witnesses;

(2) to obtain witnesses or tangible evidence by compulsory process; and

(3) to introduce evidence on behalf of the parent, guardian, or custodian.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-3-2(a), (b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-21-6-13 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-21-6-13
Application for issuance of a warrant to take physical custody of a child
Status: in_force

Sec. 13. (a) On the filing of a petition seeking enforcement of a child custody determination, the petitioner may file a verified application for the issuance of a warrant to take physical custody of the child if the child is immediately likely to:

(1) suffer serious physical harm; or

(2) be removed from Indiana.

(b) If the court, on the testimony of the petitioner or other witness, finds that the child is imminently likely to suffer serious physical harm or be removed from Indiana, the court may issue a warrant to take physical custody of the child. The petition must be heard on the next judicial day after the warrant is executed unless hearing the petition on that date is impossible. In that event, the court shall hold the hearing on the first judicial day possible. The application for the warrant must include the statements required by section 8(b) of this chapter.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-35-1-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-35-1-1
Application of chapter
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) Except as provided in subsection (b), this chapter applies to the voluntary termination of the parent-child relationship by parents.

(b) This chapter does not apply to termination of the parent-child relationship involving a safe haven infant.

[1997 Recodification Citation: New.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.18. Amended by P.L.45-2023, SEC.12.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-219 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-219
"Safe haven infant"
Status: in_force

Sec. 219. "Safe haven infant", for purposes of IC 31-34 and IC 31-35, means a child:

(1) who is, or appears to be, not more than sixty (60) days of age; and

(2) who has been voluntarily left:

(A) by a parent with an emergency medical services provider (as defined in IC 16-41-10-1); or

(B) in a newborn safety device;

under IC 31-34-2.5-1.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-17-6-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-17-6-5
Representation by attorney
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. The guardian ad litem or the court appointed special advocate may be represented by an attorney. If necessary to protect the child's interests, the court may appoint an attorney to represent the guardian ad litem or the court appointed special advocate.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-28(e) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-31 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-31
"Central authority"
Status: in_force

Sec. 31. "Central authority", for purposes of the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act under IC 31-18.5, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-18.5-7-1.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-34-4-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-34-4-1
Application of chapter
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. This chapter applies only to a child alleged to be a child in need of services.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-6(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17.
Ind. Code § 31-27-6-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-27-6-1
Operation of a child placing agency
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) A person may not operate a child placing agency without a license issued under this article.

(b) The state or a political subdivision of the state may not operate a child placing agency without a license issued under this chapter.

(c) A child placing agency may not operate a foster family home if:

(1) the number of children maintained on the premises at any one (1) time is greater than the number authorized by the license; or

(2) the children are maintained in a building or place not designated by the license.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-5-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-18.5-5-2
Employer's compliance with income withholding order of another state
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) Upon receipt of an income withholding order, the obligor's income payor shall immediately provide a copy of the order to the obligor.

(b) The income payor shall treat an income withholding order issued in another state which appears regular on its face as if it had been issued by an Indiana tribunal.

(c) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (d) and section 3 of this chapter, the income payor shall withhold and distribute the funds as directed in the withholding order by complying with terms of the order which specify:

(1) the duration and amount of periodic payments of current child support, stated as a sum certain;

(2) the person designated to receive payments and the address to which the payments are to be forwarded;

(3) medical support, whether in the form of periodic cash payment, stated as a sum certain, or ordering the obligor to provide health insurance coverage for the child under a policy available through the obligor's employment;

(4) the amount of periodic payments of fees and costs for a support enforcement agency, the issuing tribunal, and the obligee's attorney, stated as sums certain; and

(5) the amount of periodic payments of arrearages and interest on arrearages, stated as sums certain.

(d) An income payor shall comply with the law of the state of the obligor's principal place of employment for withholding from income with respect to:

(1) the income payor's fee for processing an income withholding order;

(2) the maximum amount permitted to be withheld from the obligor's income; and

(3) the times within which the income payor must implement the withholding order and forward the child support payment.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-17-6-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-17-6-4
Officers of the court
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. The guardian ad litem or the court appointed special advocate, or both, are considered officers of the court for the purpose of representing the child's interests.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-28(f) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-16-15-3.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-16-15-3.5
Notice to withhold income
Status: in_force

Sec. 3.5. (a) Except as provided under section 2.5(c) of this chapter, a Title IV-D agency shall issue a notice to withhold income to an obligor when the Title IV-D agency implements an income withholding order under section 2.5(a) or 2.5(b) of this chapter. The notice is sufficient for all future income withholding until the child support obligation is fully satisfied.

(b) The notice under subsection (a) must contain the following:

(1) A statement that income withholding has commenced, and if the notice is provided for an income withholding order issued under section 2.5(b) of this chapter, that the stay has been lifted.

(2) A statement that an income withholding order will be sent to all current and future income payors.

(3) If applicable, the amount of child support that the obligor is in arrears.

(4) A statement that the income shall be:

(A) withheld by a current and future income payor from the obligor's income for the payment of child support; and

(B) forwarded to the state central collection unit with a statement identifying the:

(i) cause number for the obligee;

(ii) name of the obligor;

(iii) name of the obligee with the applicable income withheld for each obligee forwarded from the income payor; and

(iv) Indiana support enforcement tracking system (ISETS) or its successor statewide automated support enforcement system number for each obligee.

(5) A statement that the total amount of income to be withheld by the Title IV-D agency under the income withholding order is the sum of:

(A) the obligor's current child support obligation; plus

(B) the amount of any arrearage payment ordered by the court; plus

(C) an additional amount as determined under section 2.5(f) of this chapter for:

(i) any arrearage that has not been adjudicated, if no arrearage has been adjudicated previously; or

(ii) any additional arrearage that has not been adjudicated and accrues since the last adjudication of arrearage by the court; plus

(D) a fee of two dollars ($2), which must be paid at the income payor's option to the income payor each time the income payor forwards income to the state central collection unit.

(6) A statement that:

(A) the total amount withheld under the income withholding order may not exceed the maximum amount permitted under 15 U.S.C. 1673(b);

(B) the income withholding order applies to the receipt of any current or subsequent income from a current or future income payor;

(C) the obligor may contest the Title IV-D agency's determination to implement an income withholding order by making written application to the Title IV-D agency not more than twenty (20) days after the date the notice under this section is mailed to the obligor;

(D) the only basis for contesting the implementation of an income withholding order is a mistake of fact;

(E) if the obligor contests the Title IV-D agency's determination to implement the income withholding order, the Title IV-D agency shall schedule an administrative hearing;

(F) an income payor shall:

(i) begin withholding income not later than the first pay date after fourteen (14) days following the date the income withholding order is received by the income payor; and

(ii) report to the state central collection unit the date on which the income was withheld from the obligor's income;

(G) if an income payor is required to withhold income from more than one (1) obligor, the income payor may combine the withheld amount of income into a single payment for all obligors who are required to make payments to the state central collection unit if the income payor identifies the part of the single payment that is attributable to each individual obligor;

(H) if the obligor has:

(i) more than one (1) income withholding order against the obligor; and

(ii) insufficient disposable earnings to pay the amount of income withholding for all income withholding orders;

an income payor shall distribute the withheld income pro rata among the persons entitled to receive income under the income withholding orders, giving priority to a current income withholding order;

(I) an income payor shall honor all withholdings to the extent that the total amount withheld does not exceed limits imposed under 15 U.S.C. 1673(b);

(J) the income withholding order is binding upon the income payor until further notice by the Title IV-D agency;

(K) an income payor that:

(i) discharges the obligor from employment;

(ii) refuses to employ the obligor;

(iii) takes disciplinary action against the obligor employed by the income payor; or

(iv) otherwise discriminates against the obligor;

because of the existence of an income withholding order or the obligations imposed upon the income payor by the income withholding order is subject to a penalty not to exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000) payable to the state and recoverable in a civil action;

(L) if an income payor fails to withhold income in accordance with the income withholding order, the income payor is liable for:

(i) the accumulated amount the income payor should have withheld from the obligor's income; and

(ii) any interest, attorney's fees, and costs;

(M) an income withholding order under this chapter has priority over any secured or unsecured claim on income, except for claims for federal, state, and local taxes; and

(N) the income payor must notify the Title IV-D agency if the obligor:

(i) ceases employment with; or

(ii) no longer receives income from;

the income payor, not later than ten (10) days after the date the obligor's employment or income ceases, and provide the obligor's last known address and the name and address of the obligor's new income payor, if known, to the Title IV-D agency.

(c) If the Title IV-D agency issues a notice to withhold income to the obligor under this section, the Title IV-D agency is not required to provide further notice to continue to implement or amend the income withholding order unless the income withholding order is stayed by the court under section 0.5(c) of this chapter.

As added by P.L.103-2007, SEC.28. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.40; P.L.123-2014, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-11-3-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-11-3-2
"Premarital agreement" defined
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. As used in this chapter, "premarital agreement" means an agreement between prospective spouses that:

(1) is executed in contemplation of marriage; and

(2) becomes effective upon marriage.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-2.5-2 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-37-9-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-37-9-7
Duration of program
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. A program of informal adjustment may not exceed six (6) months.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-12(f) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.146-2008, SEC.632; P.L.101-2022, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-28-5.8-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 28 / Chapter 5.8 / Section 31-28-5.8-1
"Collaborative care"
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. As used in this chapter, "collaborative care" means any services or payments for services that the department provides for older youth under the terms of a collaborative care agreement, while the older youth is residing in:

(1) a foster family home licensed under IC 31-27-4 or a comparable law in the state where the home is located;

(2) a host home under an agreement with the older youth approved by the department;

(3) a child caring institution licensed under IC 31-27-3;

(4) a group home licensed under IC 31-27-5; or

(5) a supervised independent living arrangement approved by the department.

As added by P.L.48-2012, SEC.34.
Ind. Code § 31-14-1.5-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 1.5 / Section 31-14-1.5-3
Forfeiture; use of proceeds
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Upon forfeiture, the proceeds of the security, a bond, or other guarantee ordered to secure the obligation of child support, enforcement of a custody order, or enforcement of a parenting time order under this article may only be used to:

(1) reimburse the nonviolating party for actual costs or damages incurred in upholding the court's order;

(2) locate and return the child to the residence as set forth in the court's order, if the security, bond, or guarantee covers custody or parenting time, or both; or

(3) reimburse reasonable fees and court costs to the court appointed trustee.

As added by P.L.171-2001, SEC.1. Amended by P.L.68-2005, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-34-20-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 20 / Section 31-34-20-1
Dispositional decrees; conditions for placement of child in home or facility outside Indiana; written findings and conclusions
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) Subject to this section and sections 1.5 and 1.6 of this chapter, if a child is a child in need of services, the juvenile court may enter one (1) or more of the following dispositional decrees:

(1) Order supervision of the child by the department.

(2) Order the child to receive outpatient treatment:

(A) at a social service agency or a psychological, a psychiatric, a medical, or an educational facility; or

(B) from an individual practitioner.

(3) Remove the child from the child's home and authorize the department to place the child in another home, shelter care facility, child caring institution, group home, or secure private facility. Placement under this subdivision includes authorization to control and discipline the child.

(4) Award wardship of the child to the department for supervision, care, and placement.

(5) Partially or completely emancipate the child under section 6 of this chapter.

(6) Unless a finding has been made under IC 31-34-21-5.6 that reasonable efforts for family preservation or reunification are not required, order the child's parent, guardian, or custodian to complete reunification services recommended by the department and approved by the court under IC 31-34-18 and IC 31-34-19, which may include services described in section 3(a) of this chapter. In determining the reunification services that are appropriate, the court shall take into consideration:

(A) any failure of the parent, guardian, or custodian to substantially participate in previously ordered services or substantially comply with a previous case plan;

(B) any history of the parent, guardian, or custodian abusing the child while the parent, guardian, or custodian was under the influence of drugs or alcohol;

(C) any history of the parent, guardian, or custodian directing violent behavior at the child or at a member of the child's immediate family;

(D) whether the parent, guardian, or custodian continues to reside with an individual who abused the child;

(E) any patterns of behavior by the parent, guardian, or custodian that have exposed the child to repeated abuse;

(F) any testimony by a competent professional that remediation of the parent's, guardian's, or custodian's behavior is unlikely to be successful; and

(G) whether the parent, guardian, or custodian has expressed an interest in reunification with the child.

In determining the appropriateness of the reunification services, the court shall consider the child's health, welfare, and safety as the paramount concern.

(7) Order a person who is a party to refrain from direct or indirect contact with the child.

(8) Order a perpetrator of child abuse or neglect to refrain from returning to the child's residence.

(b) A juvenile court may not place a child in a home or facility that is located outside Indiana unless:

(1) the placement is recommended or approved by the director of the department or the director's designee; or

(2) the juvenile court makes written findings based on clear and convincing evidence that:

(A) the out-of-state placement is appropriate because there is not an equivalent facility with adequate services located in Indiana;

(B) institutional care in the other jurisdiction is in the best interest of the child and will not produce undue hardship; or

(C) the location of the home or facility is within a distance not greater than fifty (50) miles from the county of residence of the child.

(c) If a dispositional decree under this section:

(1) orders or approves removal of a child from the child's home or awards wardship of the child to the department; and

(2) is the first juvenile court order in the child in need of services proceeding that authorizes or approves removal of the child from the child's parent, guardian, or custodian;

the juvenile court shall include in the decree the appropriate findings and conclusions described in IC 31-34-5-3(b) and IC 31-34-5-3(c).

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-15.4(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.70-2004, SEC.21; P.L.145-2006, SEC.311; P.L.146-2006, SEC.50; P.L.52-2007, SEC.10; P.L.146-2008, SEC.602; P.L.104-2015, SEC.39; P.L.46-2016, SEC.14; P.L.183-2017, SEC.48; P.L.172-2022, SEC.9; P.L.179-2025, SEC.16.
Ind. Code § 31-32-5-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-32-5-2
Child's waiver of right to meaningful consultation
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. The child may waive the child's right to meaningful consultation under section 1(2)(C) of this chapter if:

(1) the child is informed of that right;

(2) the child's waiver is made in the presence of the child's custodial parent, guardian, custodian, guardian ad litem, or attorney; and

(3) the waiver is made knowingly and voluntarily.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-3(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-35-1.5-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 1.5 / Section 31-35-1.5-1
Application of chapter
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. This chapter applies to the termination of a parent-child relationship involving a safe haven infant.

As added by P.L.45-2023, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-40-1-0.2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 40 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-40-1-0.2
Application of certain amendments to prior law
Status: in_force

Sec. 0.2. The amendments made to IC 31-6-4-18 (before its repeal, now codified in this chapter) by P.L.270-1995 apply only to services provided or fees imposed after May 3, 1995.

As added by P.L.220-2011, SEC.517.
Ind. Code § 31-17-2-8.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-17-2-8.5
Consideration of de facto custodian factors
Status: in_force

Sec. 8.5. (a) This section applies only if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the child has been cared for by a de facto custodian.

(b) In addition to the factors listed in section 8 of this chapter, the court shall consider the following factors in determining custody:

(1) The wishes of the child's de facto custodian.

(2) The extent to which the child has been cared for, nurtured, and supported by the de facto custodian.

(3) The intent of the child's parent in placing the child with the de facto custodian.

(4) The circumstances under which the child was allowed to remain in the custody of the de facto custodian, including whether the child was placed with the de facto custodian to allow the parent now seeking custody to:

(A) seek employment;

(B) work; or

(C) attend school.

(c) If a court determines that a child is in the custody of a de facto custodian, the court shall make the de facto custodian a party to the proceeding.

(d) The court shall award custody of the child to the child's de facto custodian if the court determines that it is in the best interests of the child.

(e) If the court awards custody of the child to the child's de facto custodian, the de facto custodian is considered to have legal custody of the child under Indiana law.

As added by P.L.96-1999, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-34-2-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-34-2-4
Missing child taken into custody without court order
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. A child may be taken into custody by:

(1) a law enforcement officer;

(2) a probation officer; or

(3) a caseworker;

acting with probable cause to believe the child is a child in need of services because the child is a missing child (as defined in IC 10-13-5-4).

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-4(e).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.2-2003, SEC.74.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-11
"Adoption history"
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. "Adoption history", for purposes of IC 31-19-17 through IC 31-19-24, means:

(1) identifying information (as defined in section 122 of this chapter);

(2) the medical history (as defined in section 159 of this chapter); and

(3) nonidentifying information (as defined in section 165 of this chapter).

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-40-1-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 40 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-40-1-7
Distribution of payments
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. Amounts received as payment of support or reimbursement of the cost of services paid as provided in this chapter shall be distributed in the following manner:

(1) If any part of the cost of services was paid from federal funds under Title IV Part E of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 671 et seq.), the amounts received shall first be applied as provided in 42 U.S.C. 657 and 45 CFR 302.52.

(2) As provided in 45 CFR 302.52(b)(2), all amounts remaining after the distributions required by subdivision (1) shall be used in the best interests of the child for whom the support or reimbursement was paid, including:

(A) setting aside amounts for the child's future needs; or

(B) making all or part of the amount available to the person responsible for meeting the child's daily needs to be used for the child's benefit.

As added by P.L.273-1999, SEC.123. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.364; P.L.146-2008, SEC.671; P.L.206-2015, SEC.61.
Ind. Code § 31-34-19-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-34-19-5
Release of local office or the department of child services from obligations to child placed in state institution
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. If the court authorizes a child who is under the custody or supervision of a local office or the department to be placed in a state institution (as defined in IC 12-7-2.1-318) for voluntary treatment in accordance with IC 12-26-3, the court may not release the department from obligations of the local office or the department to the child until a parent, guardian, or other responsible person approved by the court assumes the obligations.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-15.3(d) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.310; P.L.128-2012, SEC.164; P.L.145-2026, SEC.206.
Ind. Code § 31-17-2.4-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 2.4 / Section 31-17-2.4-2
Docketing; extension; report
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. When a case is ordered to mediation, the case shall be placed on the court docket for final hearing. The mediation process must be completed not later than sixty (60) days after the mediation order is entered. However, the sixty (60) day period may be extended by the court upon the court's own motion, upon agreement of the parties, or upon the recommendation of the mediator, but may not be extended beyond the date set for final hearing. Upon completion of the mediation process, the mediator shall promptly file the mediation report.

As added by P.L.199-1997, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-16-13-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-16-13-1
Registration of child support order
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. If:

(1) the parent who is entitled to receive child support; and

(2) the parent who is ordered to pay child support;

are both present in Indiana, the parent who is entitled to receive child support may register a child support order issued by another Indiana court or foreign court for the sole purpose of enforcement in accordance with IC 31-18.5-6-1 through IC 31-18.5-6-8 of the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-16.5.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.206-2015, SEC.50.
Ind. Code § 31-30-3-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 30 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-30-3-7
Time limit for making or granting motion to waive jurisdiction
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. A motion to waive jurisdiction may not be made or granted after:

(1) the child has admitted the allegations in the petition at the initial hearing; or

(2) the first witness has been sworn at the factfinding hearing.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-2-4(g).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-155 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-155
"Local law enforcement authority"
Status: in_force

Sec. 155. "Local law enforcement authority" has the meaning set forth in IC 11-8-8-2.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-27-4-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-27-4-4
Consultation with fire prevention and building safety commission
Status: in_force

Note: This version of section effective until 7-1-2027. See also following version of this section, effective 7-1-2027.

Sec. 4. The fire prevention and building safety commission shall provide consultation regarding the licensure of foster family homes to the department upon request.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-28-6.7-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 28 / Chapter 6.7 / Section 31-28-6.7-3
Request for release of foster child's Social Security number; deadline for determination
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. The department shall approve or deny a request for a child's Social Security number submitted under this chapter not later than ten (10) business days after receiving a properly completed form.

As added by P.L.77-2023, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-16-2-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-16-2-2
Cause of action established
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. A cause of action for child support is established.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-3(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-37-23-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 23 / Section 31-37-23-1
Provisions of compact
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. The following compact, by and between the state of Indiana and any other state which has or shall hereafter ratify or legally join in the same, is ratified and approved.

The contracting states solemnly agree:

ARTICLE 1 ─ Findings and Purposes

That juveniles who are not under proper supervision and control, or who have absconded, escaped or run away, are likely to endanger their own health, morals and welfare, and the health, morals and welfare of others. The cooperation of the states party to this compact is therefore necessary to provide for the welfare and protection of juveniles and to the public with respect to (1) cooperative supervision of delinquent juveniles on probation or parole; (2) the return, from one (1) state to another, of delinquent juveniles who have escaped or absconded; (3) the return, from one (1) state to another, of nondelinquent juveniles who have run away from home; and (4) additional measures for the protection of juveniles and of the public, which any two (2) or more of the party states may find desirable to undertake cooperatively. In carrying out the provisions of this compact the party states shall be guided by the noncriminal, reformative and protective policies which guide their laws concerning delinquent, neglected or dependent juveniles generally. It shall be the policy of the states party to this compact to cooperate and observe their respective responsibilities for the prompt return and acceptance of juveniles and delinquent juveniles who become subject to the provisions of this compact. The provisions of this compact shall be reasonably and liberally construed to accomplish the foregoing purposes.

ARTICLE 2─Existing Rights and Remedies

That all remedies and procedures provided by this compact shall be in addition to and not in substitution for other rights, remedies and procedures, and shall not be in derogation of parental rights and responsibilities.

ARTICLE 3─Definitions

That, for the purpose of this compact, "delinquent juvenile" means any juvenile who has been adjudged delinquent and who, at the time the provisions of this compact are invoked, is still subject to the jurisdiction of the court that has made such adjudication or to the jurisdiction or supervision of an agency or institution pursuant to an order of such court; "probation or parole" means any kind of conditional release of juveniles authorized under the laws of the states party hereto; "court" means any court having jurisdiction over delinquent, neglected or dependent children; "state" means any state, territory or possessions of the United States, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico; and "residence" or any variant thereof means a place at which a home or regular place of abode is maintained.

ARTICLE 4─Return of Runaways

(a) That the parent, guardian, person or agency entitled to legal custody of a juvenile who has not been adjudged delinquent but who has run away without the consent of such parent, guardian, person or agency may petition the appropriate court in the demanding state for the issuance of a requisition for his return. The petition shall state the name and age of the juvenile, the name of the petitioner and the basis of entitlement to the juvenile's custody, the circumstances of his running away, his location if known at the time application is made, and such other facts as may tend to show that the juvenile who has run away is endangering his own welfare or the welfare of others and is not an emancipated minor. The petition shall be verified by affidavit, shall be executed in duplicate, and shall be accompanied by two (2) certified copies of the document or documents on which the petitioner's entitlement to the juvenile's custody is based, such as birth certificates, letters of guardianship, or custody decrees. Such further affidavits and other documents as may be deemed proper may be submitted with such petition. The judge of the court to which this application is made may hold a hearing thereon to determine whether for the purposes of this compact the petitioner is entitled to the legal custody of the juvenile, whether or not it appears that the juvenile has in fact run away without consent, whether or not he is an emancipated minor, and whether or not it is in the best interest of the juvenile to compel his return to the state. If the judge determines, either with or without a hearing, that the juvenile should be returned, he shall present to the appropriate court or to the executive authority of the state where the juvenile is alleged to be located a written requisition for the return of such juvenile. Such requisition shall set forth the name and age of the juvenile, the determination of the court that the juvenile has run away without the consent of a parent, guardian, person or agency entitled to his legal custody, and that it is in the best interest and for the protection of such juvenile that he be returned. In the event that a proceeding for the adjudication of the juvenile as a delinquent, neglected or dependent juvenile is pending in the court at the time when such juvenile runs away, the court may issue a requisition for the return of such juvenile upon its own motion, regardless of the consent of the parent, guardian, person or agency entitled to legal custody, reciting therein the nature and circumstances of the pending proceeding. The requisition shall in every case be executed in duplicate and shall be signed by the judge. One (1) copy of the requisition shall be filed with the compact administrator of the demanding state, there to remain on file subject to the provisions of law governing records of such court. Upon the receipt of a requisition demanding the return of a juvenile who has run away, the court or the executive authority to whom the requisition is addressed shall issue an order to any peace officer or other appropriate person directing him to take into custody and detain such juvenile. Such detention order must substantially recite the facts necessary to the validity of its issuance hereunder. No juvenile detained upon such order shall be delivered over to the officer whom the court demanding him shall have appointed to receive him, unless he shall first be taken forthwith before a judge of a court in the state, who shall inform him of the demand made for his return, and who may appoint counsel or guardian ad litem for him. If the judge of such court shall find that the requisition is in order, he shall deliver such juvenile over to the officer whom the court demanding him shall have appointed to receive him. The judge, however, may fix a reasonable time to be allowed for the purpose of testing the legality of the proceeding.

Upon reasonable information that a person is a juvenile who has run away from another state party to this compact without the consent of a parent, guardian, person or agency entitled to his legal custody, such juvenile may be taken into custody without a requisition and brought forthwith before a judge of the appropriate court who may appoint counsel or guardian ad litem for such juvenile and who shall determine after a hearing whether sufficient cause exists to hold the person, subject to the order of the court, for his own protection and welfare, for such a time not exceeding ninety (90) days as will enable his return to another state party to this compact pursuant to a requisition for his return from a court of this state. If, at the time when a state seeks the return of a juvenile who has run away, there is pending in the state wherein he is found any criminal charge, or any proceeding to have him adjudicated a delinquent juvenile for an act committed in such state, or if he is suspected of having committed within such state a criminal offense or an act of juvenile delinquency, he shall not be returned without the consent of such state until discharged from prosecution or other form of proceeding, imprisonment, detention or supervision for such offense or juvenile delinquency. The duly accredited officers of any state party to this compact, upon the establishment of their authority and the identity of the juvenile being returned, shall be permitted to transport such juvenile through any and all states party to this compact, without interference. Upon his return to the state from which he ran away, the juvenile shall be subject to such further proceedings as may be appropriate under the laws of that state.

(b) That the state to which a juvenile is returned under this article shall be responsible for payment of the transportation costs of such return.

(c) That "juvenile" as used in this article means any person who is a minor under the law of the state of residence of the parent, guardian, person or agency entitled to the legal custody of such minor.

ARTICLE 5─Return of Escapees and Absconders

(a) That the appropriate person or authority from whose probation or parole supervision a delinquent juvenile has absconded or from whose institutional custody he has escaped shall present to the appropriate court or to the executive authority of the state where the delinquent juvenile is alleged to be located a written requisition for the return of such delinquent juvenile. Such requisition shall state the name and age of the delinquent juvenile, the particulars of his adjudication as a delinquent juvenile, the circumstances of the breach of the terms of his probation or parole or of his escape from an institution or agency vested with his legal custody or supervision, and the location of such delinquent juvenile, if known, at the time the requisition is made. The requisition shall be verified by affidavit, shall be executed in duplicate, and shall be accompanied by two (2) certified copies of the judgment, formal adjudication, or order of commitment which subjects such delinquent juvenile to probation or parole or to the legal custody of the institution or agency concerned. Such further affidavits and other documents as may be deemed proper may be submitted with such requisition. One (1) copy of the requisition shall be filed with the compact administrator of the demanding state, there to remain on file subject to the provisions of law governing records of the appropriate court. Upon the receipt of a requisition demanding the return of a delinquent juvenile who has absconded or escaped, the court or the executive authority to whom the requisition is addressed shall issue an order to any peace officer or other appropriate person directing him to take into custody and detain such delinquent juvenile. Such detention order must substantially recite the facts necessary to the validity of its issuance hereunder. No delinquent juvenile detained upon such order shall be delivered over to the officer whom the appropriate person or authority demanding him shall have appointed to receive him, unless he shall first be taken forthwith before a judge of an appropriate court in the state, who shall inform him of the demand made for his return and who may appoint counsel or guardian ad litem for him. If the judge of such court shall find that the requisition is in order, he shall deliver such delinquent juvenile over to the officer whom the appropriate person or authority demanding him shall have appointed to receive him. The judge, however, may fix a reasonable time to be allowed for the purpose of testing the legality of the proceeding.

Upon reasonable information that a person is a delinquent juvenile who has absconded while on probation or parole, or escaped from an institution or agency vested with his legal custody or supervision in any state party to this compact, such person may be taken into custody in any other state party to this compact without a requisition. But in such event, he must be taken forthwith before a judge of the appropriate court, who may appoint counsel or guardian ad litem for such person and who shall determine, after a hearing, whether sufficient cause exists to hold the person subject to the order of the court for such a time, not exceeding ninety (90) days, as will enable his detention under a detention order issued on a requisition pursuant to this article. If, at the time when a state seeks the return of a delinquent juvenile who has either absconded while on probation or parole or escaped from an institution or agency vested with his legal custody or supervision, there is pending in the state wherein he is detained any criminal charge or any proceeding to have him adjudicated a delinquent juvenile for an act committed in such state, or if he is suspected of having committed within such state a criminal offense or an act of juvenile delinquency, he shall not be returned without the consent of such state until discharged from prosecution or other form of proceeding, imprisonment, detention or supervision for such offense or juvenile delinquency. The duly accredited officers of any state party to this compact, upon the establishment of their authority and the identity of the delinquent juvenile being returned, shall be permitted to transport such delinquent juvenile through any and all states party to this compact, without interference. Upon his return to the state from which he escaped or absconded, the delinquent juvenile shall be subject to such further proceedings as may be appropriate under the laws of that state.

(b) That the state to which a delinquent juvenile is returned under this article shall be responsible for the payment of the transportation costs of such return.

ARTICLE 6─Voluntary Return Procedure

That any delinquent juvenile who has absconded while on probation or parole, or escaped from an institution or agency vested with his legal custody or supervision in any state party to this compact, and any juvenile who has run away from any state party to this compact, who is taken into custody without a requisition in another state party to this compact under the provisions of Article 4(a) or of Article 5(a), may consent to his immediate return to the state from which he absconded, escaped or ran away. Such consent shall be given by the juvenile or delinquent juvenile and his counsel or guardian ad litem, if any, by executing or subscribing a writing, in the presence of a judge of the appropriate court, which states that the juvenile or delinquent juvenile and his counsel or guardian ad litem, if any, consent to his return to the demanding state. Before such consent shall be executed or subscribed, however, the judge, in the presence of counsel or guardian ad litem, if any, shall inform the juvenile or delinquent juvenile of his rights under this compact. When the consent has been duly executed, it shall be forwarded to and filed with the compact administrator of the state in which the court is located and the judge shall direct the officer having the juvenile or delinquent juvenile in custody to deliver him to the duly accredited officer or officers of the state demanding his return, and shall cause to be delivered to such officer or officers a copy of the consent. The court may, however, upon the request of the state to which the juvenile or delinquent juvenile is being returned, order him to return unaccompanied to such state and shall provide him with a copy of such court order; in such event a copy of the consent shall be forwarded to the compact administrator of the state to which said juvenile or delinquent juvenile is ordered to return.

ARTICLE 7─Cooperative Supervision of Probationers and Parolees

(a) That the duly constituted judicial and administrative authorities of a state party to this compact (herein called "sending state") may permit any delinquent juvenile within such state, placed on probation or parole, to reside in any other state party to this compact (herein called "receiving state") while on probation or parole, and the receiving state shall accept such delinquent juvenile, if the parent, guardian or person entitled to the legal custody of such delinquent juvenile is residing or undertakes to reside within the receiving state. Before granting such permission, opportunity shall be given to the receiving state to make such investigations as it deems necessary. The authorities of the sending state shall send to the authorities of the receiving state copies of pertinent court orders, social case studies and all other available information which may be of value to and assist the receiving state in supervising a probationer or parolee under this compact. A receiving state, in its discretion, may agree to accept supervision of a probationer or parolee in cases where the parent, guardian or person entitled to the legal custody of the delinquent juvenile is not a resident of the receiving state, and if so accepted the sending state may transfer supervision accordingly.

(b) That each receiving state will assume the duties of visitation and of supervision over any such delinquent juvenile and in the exercise of those duties will be governed by the same standards of visitation and supervision that prevail for its own delinquent juveniles released on probation or parole.

(c) That, after consultation between the appropriate authorities of the sending state and of the receiving state as to the desirability and necessity of returning such a delinquent juvenile, the duly accredited officers of a sending state may enter a receiving state and there apprehend and retake any such delinquent juvenile on probation or parole. For that purpose, no formalities will be required, other than establishing the authority of the officer and the identity of the delinquent juvenile to be retaken and returned. The decision of the sending state to retake a delinquent juvenile on probation or parole shall be conclusive upon and not reviewable within the receiving state, but if, at the time the sending state seeks to retake a delinquent juvenile on probation or parole, there is pending against him within the receiving state any criminal charge or any proceeding to have him adjudicated a delinquent juvenile for any act committed in such state or if he is suspected of having committed within such state a criminal offense or an act of juvenile delinquency, he shall not be returned without the consent of the receiving state until discharged from prosecution or other form of proceeding, imprisonment, detention or supervision for such offense or juvenile delinquency. The duly accredited officers of the sending state shall be permitted to transport delinquent juveniles being so returned through any and all states party to this compact, without interference.

(d) That the sending state shall be responsible under this article for paying the costs of transporting any delinquent juvenile to the receiving state or of returning any delinquent juvenile to the sending state.

ARTICLE 8─Responsibility for Costs

(a) That the provisions of Articles 4(b), 5(b), and 7(d) of this compact shall not be construed to alter or affect any internal relationship among the departments, agencies and officers of and in the government of a party state, or between a party state and its subdivisions, as to the payment of costs, or responsibilities therefor.

(b) That nothing in this compact shall be construed to prevent any party state or subdivision thereof from asserting any right against any person, agency or other entity in regard to costs for which such party state or subdivision thereof may be responsible pursuant to Articles 4(b), 5(b) or 7(d) of this compact.

ARTICLE 9─Detention Practices

That, to every extent possible, it shall be the policy of states party to this compact that no juvenile or delinquent juvenile shall be placed or detained in any prison, jail or lockup nor be detained or transported in association with criminal, vicious or dissolute persons.

ARTICLE 10─Supplementary Agreements

That the duly constituted administrative authorities of a state party to this compact may enter into supplementary agreements with any other state or states party hereto for the cooperative care, treatment and rehabilitation of delinquent juveniles whenever they shall find that such agreements will improve the facilities or programs available for such care, treatment and rehabilitation located within any state entering into such supplementary agreement. Such supplementary agreements shall (1) provide the rates to be paid for the care, treatment and custody of such delinquent juveniles, taking into consideration the character of facilities, services and subsistence furnished; (2) provide that the delinquent juvenile shall be given a court hearing prior to his being sent to another state for care, treatment and custody; (3) provide that the state receiving such a delinquent juvenile in one (1) of its institutions shall act solely as agent for the state sending such delinquent juvenile; (4) provide that the sending state shall at all times retain jurisdiction over delinquent juveniles sent to an institution in another state; (5) provide for reasonable inspection of such institutions by the sending state; (6) provide that the consent of the parent, guardian, person or agency entitled to the legal custody of said delinquent juvenile shall be secured prior to his being sent to another state; and (7) make provision for such other matters and details as shall be necessary to protect the rights and equities of such delinquent juveniles and of the cooperating states.

ARTICLE 11─Acceptance of Federal and Other Aid

That any state party to this compact may accept any and all donations, gifts and grants of money, equipment and services from the federal or any local government, or any agency thereof and from any person, firm or corporation, for any of the purposes and functions of this compact, and may receive and utilize the same subject to the terms, conditions and regulations governing such donations, gifts and grants.

ARTICLE 12─Compact Administrators

That the governor of each state party to this compact shall designate an officer who, acting jointly with like officers of other party states, shall promulgate rules and regulations to carry out more effectively the terms and provisions of this compact.

ARTICLE 13─Execution of Compact

That this compact shall become operative immediately upon its execution by any state as between it and any other state or states so executing. When executed it shall have the full force and effect of law within such state, the form or execution to be in accordance with the laws of the executing state.

ARTICLE 14─Renunciation

That this compact shall continue in force and remain binding upon each executing state until renounced by it. Renunciation of this compact shall be by the same authority which executed it, by sending six (6) months' notice in writing of its intention to withdraw from the compact to the other states party hereto. The duties and obligations of a renouncing state under Article 7 hereof shall continue as to parolees and probationers residing therein at the time of withdrawal until retaken or finally discharged. Supplementary agreements entered into under Article 10 hereof shall be subject to renunciation as provided by such supplementary agreements, and shall not be subject to the six (6) months' renunciation notice of the present article.

ARTICLE 15─Severability

That the provisions of this compact shall be severable and if any phrase, clause, sentence or provision of this compact is declared to be contrary to the constitution of any participating state or of the United States or the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person or circumstance is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this compact and the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person or circumstance shall not be affected thereby. If this compact shall be held contrary to the constitution of any state participating therein, the compact shall remain in full force and effect as to the remaining states and in full force and effect as to the state affected as to all severable matters.

AMENDMENT 1─Runaways

That this article shall provide additional remedies, and shall be binding only as among and between those party states which specifically execute the same.

For the purposes of this article, "child," as used herein, means any minor within the jurisdictional age limits of any court in the home state.

When any child is brought before a court of a state of which such child is not a resident, and such state is willing to permit such child's return to the home state of such child, such home state, upon being so advised by the state in which such proceeding is pending, shall immediately institute proceedings to determine the residence and jurisdictional facts as to such child in such home state, and upon finding that such child is in fact a resident of said state and subject to the jurisdiction of the court thereof, shall within five (5) days authorize the return of such child to the home state, and to the parent or custodial agency legally authorized to accept such custody in such home state, and at the expense of such home state, to be paid from such funds as such home state may procure, designate, or provide, prompt action being of the essence.

AMENDMENT 2─Rendition

(a) This amendment shall provide additional remedies, and shall be binding only as among and between those party states which specifically execute the same.

(b) All provisions and procedures of Articles 5 and 6 of the Interstate Compact on Juveniles shall be construed to apply to any juvenile charged with being a delinquent by reason of a violation of any criminal law. Any juvenile charged with being a delinquent by reason of violating any criminal law shall be returned to the requesting state upon a requisition to the state where the juvenile may be found. A petition in such case shall be filed in a court of competent jurisdiction in the requesting state where the violation of criminal law is alleged to have been committed. The petition may be filed regardless of whether the juvenile has left the state before or after the filing of the petition. The requisition described in Article 5 of the compact shall be forwarded by the judge of the court in which the petition has been filed.

AMENDMENT 3─Out-of-State Confinement

(a) Whenever the duly constituted judicial or administrative authorities in a sending state shall determine that confinement of a probationer or reconfinement of a parolee is necessary or desirable, said officials may direct that the confinement or reconfinement be in an appropriate institution for delinquent juveniles within the territory of the receiving state, such receiving state to act in that regard solely as agent for the sending state.

(b) Escapees and absconders who would otherwise be returned pursuant to Article 5 of the compact may be confined or reconfined in the receiving state pursuant to this amendment. In any such case the information and allegations required to be made and furnished in a requisition pursuant to such article shall be made and furnished, but in place of the demand pursuant to Article 5, the sending state shall request confinement or reconfinement in the receiving state. Whenever applicable, detention orders as provided in Article 5 may be employed pursuant to this paragraph preliminary to disposition of the escapee or absconder.

(c) The confinement or reconfinement of a parolee, probationer, escapee, or absconder pursuant to this amendment shall require the concurrence of the appropriate judicial or administrative authorities of the receiving state.

(d) As used in this amendment: (1) "sending state" means sending state as that term is used in Article 7 of the compact or the state from which a delinquent juvenile has escaped or absconded within the meaning of Article 5 of the compact; (2) "receiving state" means any state, other than the sending state, in which a parolee, probationer, escapee, or absconder may be found, provided that said state is a party to this amendment.

(e) Every state which adopts this amendment shall designate at least one (1) of its institutions for delinquent juveniles as a "Compact Institution" and shall confine persons therein as provided in paragraph (a) hereof unless the sending and receiving state in question shall make specific contractual arrangements to the contrary. All states party to this amendment shall have access to "Compact Institutions" at all reasonable hours for the purpose of inspecting the facilities thereof and for the purpose of visiting such of said state's delinquents as may be confined in the institution.

(f) Persons confined in "Compact Institutions" pursuant to the terms of this compact shall at all times be subject to the jurisdiction of the sending state and may at any time be removed from said "Compact Institution" for transfer to an appropriate institution within the sending state, for return to probation or parole, for discharge, or for any purpose permitted by the laws of the sending state.

(g) All persons who may be confined in a "Compact Institution" pursuant to the provisions of this amendment shall be treated in a reasonable and humane manner. The fact of confinement or reconfinement in a receiving state shall not deprive any person so confined or reconfined of any rights which said person would have had if confined or reconfined in an appropriate institution of the sending state; nor shall any agreement to submit to confinement or reconfinement pursuant to the terms of this amendment be construed as a waiver of any rights which the delinquent would have had if he had been confined or reconfined in any appropriate institution of the sending state except that the hearing or hearings, if any, to which a parolee, probationer, escapee, or absconder may be entitled (prior to confinement or reconfinement) by the laws of the sending state may be had before the appropriate judicial or administrative officers of the receiving state. In this event, said judicial and administrative officers shall act as agents of the sending state after consultation with appropriate officers of the sending state.

(h) Any receiving state incurring costs or other expenses under this amendment shall be reimbursed in the amount of such costs or other expenses by the sending state unless the states concerned shall specifically otherwise agree. Any two (2) or more states party to this amendment may enter into supplementary agreements determining a different allocation of costs as among themselves.

(i) This amendment shall take initial effect when entered into by any two (2) or more states party to the compact and shall be effective as to those states which have specifically enacted this amendment. Rules and regulations necessary to effectuate the terms of this amendment may be promulgated by the appropriate officers of those states which have enacted this amendment.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-10-1 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-16-8-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-16-8-3
Security, bond, or guarantee
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. The court may provide in a modification of a support order for the security, bond, or other guarantee that is satisfactory to the court to secure the obligation to make support payments.

As added by P.L.171-2001, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-33-26-18 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 26 / Section 31-33-26-18
Transfer of records to the index
Status: reserved

Sec. 18. On July 1, 2007, all substantiated reports and other documents relating to child abuse or neglect cases contained in the child abuse registry under IC 31-33-17 (before its repeal) and the automated child protection system under IC 31-33-20 (before its repeal) shall be transferred to and be included in the child protection index. The department shall maintain and administer all reports and documents transferred to and included in the child protection index as provided in this chapter.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.67.
Ind. Code § 31-14-3-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-14-3-1
Application of Indiana Rules of Civil Procedure
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. The Indiana Rules of Civil Procedure apply to paternity actions.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-19.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-245 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-245
"Title IV-D case"
Status: in_force

Sec. 245. "Title IV-D case", for purposes of IC 31-16-15, means a case arising under Title IV-D of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 651 through 669).

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-19-5-20 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-19-5-20
Methods of submitting registration
Status: in_force

Sec. 20. A putative father must submit a registration under this chapter:

(1) in person; or

(2) by:

(A) facsimile transmission;

(B) mail;

(C) private courier; or

(D) express delivery service.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1.5-18(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-21-2-21 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-21-2-21
"Warrant"
Status: in_force

Sec. 21. "Warrant" means an order issued by a court authorizing law enforcement officers to take physical custody of a child.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-21-4-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-21-4-9
Request by a court in another state to an Indiana court
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. On the request of a court of another state, an Indiana court may:

(1) hold a hearing; and

(2) enter an order described in section 8 of this chapter.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-14-6-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-14-6-4
Costs of blood or genetic testing
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. If the state or a political subdivision of the state pays the initial costs of blood testing or genetic testing in a paternity action, the state or political subdivision may recover those costs from an individual found to be the biological parent of the child in the action. The court shall determine the manner in which reimbursement for the costs is to be made.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-8(d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.44-2003, SEC.1.
Ind. Code § 31-16-15-15 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-16-15-15
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-2-10-16(a), (b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.138-2001, SEC.13; P.L.234-2005, SEC.90; P.L.148-2006, SEC.23. Repealed by P.L.103-2007, SEC.51.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25-4.6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-19-25-4.6
Contact preference form; contents; identification; duration; changing preference
Status: in_force

Sec. 4.6. (a) The state registrar shall prescribe a contact preference form for birth parents. The form must include the following:

(1) A component in which a birth parent is to indicate one (1) of the following with regard to a person that requests identifying information:

(A) That the birth parent welcomes the person to contact the birth parent directly and authorizes the release of identifying information.

(B) That the birth parent prefers that the birth parent be contacted through an intermediary and does not authorize the release of identifying information directly to the person.

(C) That the birth parent prefers that the person not contact the birth parent directly or through an intermediary and does not authorize the release of identifying information.

(D) That the birth parent:

(i) prefers that the person not contact the birth parent as provided under clause (C); but

(ii) welcomes the state registrar to contact the birth parent to request that the birth parent update the birth parent's medical information.

(2) A component in which a birth parent who prefers to be contacted through an intermediary as provided under subdivision (1)(B) may designate a third party to act as the intermediary for the birth parent.

(3) Provisions necessary for the state registrar to be able to identify the adoption file of the adoptee to whom the form pertains.

(4) A notice that the birth parent may change the birth parent's indicated preference regarding contact by filing a new contact preference form with the state registrar.

(5) A notice that an adoptee who does not know which court entered the adoption decree regarding the adoptee may seek assistance from the state registrar.

(b) The state registrar may accept a completed contact preference form from a birth parent only if the birth parent provides to the state registrar one (1) item of identification of the birth parent.

(c) Except as provided in subsection (f), a contact preference form submitted by a birth parent to the state registrar does not lapse.

(d) If a birth parent has previously completed and submitted a contact preference form, the state registrar shall replace the birth parent's previous contact preference form with the birth parent's new contact preference form.

(e) A birth parent may file a completed contact preference form with the state registrar to change the birth parent's indicated preference regarding contact as many times as the birth parent wishes.

(f) A contact preference form is no longer in effect if the birth parent who filed the contact preference form is deceased, unless the contact preference form specifically states that the contact preference form remains in effect after the birth parent's death.

As added by P.L.3-2016, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-17-5-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-17-5-3
Petition
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) A proceeding for grandparent's visitation must be commenced by the filing of a petition entitled, "In Re the visitation of _________". The petition must:

(1) be filed by a grandparent entitled to receive visitation rights under this chapter;

(2) be verified; and

(3) set forth the following:

(A) The names and relationship of:

(i) the petitioning grandparent or grandparents;

(ii) each child with whom visitation is sought; and

(iii) the custodial parent or guardian of each child.

(B) The present address of each person named in clause (A).

(C) The date of birth of each child with whom visitation is sought.

(D) The status under section 1 of this chapter upon which the grandparent seeks visitation.

(E) The relief sought.

(b) A petition described in subsection (a) must be filed prior to the date a decree of adoption is entered.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.7-4.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9. Amended by P.L.16-2017, SEC.1.
Ind. Code § 31-26-4-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-26-4-11
Strategic plan; plan proposal and fund request method
Status: in_force

Note: This version of section effective until 7-1-2027. See also following version of this section, effective 7-1-2027.

Sec. 11. The board shall adopt and make available to the public:

(1) a strategic plan to implement the purposes of this chapter; and

(2) a method for proposing projects and requesting funds from the Indiana kids first trust fund.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.272.
Ind. Code § 31-34-21-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-34-21-6
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-19(b) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Repealed by P.L.35-1998, SEC.28.
Ind. Code § 31-11-8-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-11-8-3
Marriage to close relative; marriages between cousins; exceptions
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. A marriage is void if the parties to the marriage are more closely related than second cousins. However, a marriage is not void if:

(1) the marriage was solemnized after September 1, 1977;

(2) the parties to the marriage are first cousins; and

(3) both of the parties were at least sixty-five (65) years of age when the marriage was solemnized.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-6-3.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-26-4-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-26-4-7-b
Repealed
Status: repealed

Note: This repeal of section effective 7-1-2027. See also preceding version of this section, effective until 7-1-2027.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.272. Repealed by P.L.152-2026, SEC.458.
Ind. Code § 31-33-8-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-33-8-5
Forwarding copies of reports to prosecuting attorney
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. The department shall immediately forward a copy of all reports made under this article to the appropriate prosecuting attorney if the prosecuting attorney has made a prior request to the service in writing for the copies.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-11-11(f) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.120.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-19-25-9
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-4.5-5(g), (h), (i).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Repealed by P.L.191-2011, SEC.57.
Ind. Code § 31-11-1-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-11-1-6
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-1-7.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3. Repealed by P.L.94-2020, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-35-2-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-35-2-1
Application of chapter
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. This chapter applies to the termination of the parent-child relationship involving:

(1) a delinquent child; or

(2) a child in need of services.

[1997 Recodification Citation: New.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-33-10-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-33-10-3
Photographs, x-rays, and physical medical examinations; delivery to department of child services; notice of existence
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. All photographs taken and a summary of x-rays and other medical care shall be sent to the department and, upon request, to a law enforcement agency that investigates the alleged child abuse or neglect, at the time the written report is sent or as soon thereafter as possible. The department shall give notice of the existence of photographs, x-rays, and physical medical examination reports in accordance with IC 31-25-2-12.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-11-6(c) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.197-1999, SEC.4; P.L.234-2005, SEC.132; P.L.145-2006, SEC.281.
Ind. Code § 31-35-3.5-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 3.5 / Section 31-35-3.5-10
Notice to county department of child services; department's duty to notify court of any other pending petition to terminate parental rights with respect to the same child
Status: in_force

Sec. 10. (a) The court shall send notice of the petition at the time of filing to the department of child services in the county in which the petition is filed.

(b) If the department of child services:

(1) receives a notice under subsection (a); and

(2) determines that the child who is the subject of the petition for termination of the parent-child relationship is the subject of a child in need of services petition in another court;

the department of child services shall notify the court in which the petition for termination of the parent-child relationship is pending of the pending child in need of services petition.

As added by P.L.64-2016, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-31-9-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 31 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-31-9-3
Rules; annual inspections and reports
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) The juvenile detention center shall be operated in accordance with rules adopted by the department of correction.

(b) The department of child services shall make an annual inspection of the center and report to the advisory board whether the center meets the requirements established by the Indiana department of health for temporary detention centers. Any noncompliance with those requirements must be stated in writing to the advisory board.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-9.5-5.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.14. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.277; P.L.56-2023, SEC.304.
Ind. Code § 31-11-9-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-11-9-2
Incapacity to marry because of age or mental incompetence
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. A marriage is voidable if a party to the marriage was incapable because of age or mental incompetency of contracting the marriage.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-7-1 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-26-1-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-26-1-6
Grants to bureaus not receiving annual or additional grants
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. The department may provide a grant to a youth service bureau that is not receiving a grant under section 5 of this chapter to permit the youth service bureau to establish, maintain, or expand the youth service bureau's programs. A grant under this section is subject to the requirements of section 7 of this chapter.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.272.
Ind. Code § 31-37-2-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-37-2-4
Delinquent act; habitual disobedience of parent, guardian, or custodian
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. A child commits a delinquent act if, before becoming eighteen (18) years of age, the child habitually disobeys the reasonable and lawful commands of the child's parent, guardian, or custodian.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-1(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-33-26-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 26 / Section 31-33-26-4
Case history file; automatic search requirements
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) In addition to the components described in section 3 of this chapter, the index must have the capability to maintain a case history file.

(b) Whenever a person enters a new child abuse or neglect report into the index, the index must have the capability to automatically search for reports that match the name of the:

(1) perpetrator;

(2) victim; or

(3) person who is legally responsible for the victim's welfare;

with the persons named in the new report as described in this chapter.

(c) If the index identifies a previous, substantiated report, the index must have the capability to transfer the report to the county where the new report originated not later than twenty-four (24) hours after receipt of the new report. If a previous, matching report is located, a case history extract must be made available to the assigned caseworker.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.67.
Ind. Code § 31-36-3-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 36 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-36-3-4
Authorization of representative to access documentation and education services on behalf of homeless youth
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) As used in this section, "homeless youth" means an individual who:

(1) is:

(A) at least sixteen (16) years of age; and

(B) less than eighteen (18) years of age;

(2) is unemancipated;

(3) is mentally competent; and

(4) lives in a situation described in 42 U.S.C. 11434a(2)(A) and 42 U.S.C. 11434a(2)(B) with or without the consent of the individual's parent, guardian, or custodian.

(b) An individual identified in subsection (c)(3) who presents a fee and consent waiver affidavit described in subsection (c) on behalf of a homeless youth to the appropriate agency or entity shall:

(1) have access, without charge and the consent of a parent, guardian, or custodian, to the homeless youth's:

(A) certificate of birth;

(B) photo identification card under IC 9-24-16-10(c); and

(C) Indiana driver's license; and

(2) be permitted to enroll the homeless youth in adult basic education services and register the homeless youth for the Indiana high school equivalency examination following the completion of an exit interview by the homeless youth under IC 20-33-2-28.5.

(c) A fee and consent waiver affidavit executed under this subsection shall contain the following:

(1) The homeless youth's:

(A) full name; and

(B) date of birth.

(2) The name, address, and telephone number of the government entity, school corporation liaison for homeless youth, or nonprofit organization that:

(A) is providing services to the homeless youth; and

(B) will accept delivery of mail for the homeless youth.

(3) The name of the legal representative of the government entity, school corporation liaison for homeless youth, or nonprofit organization described in subdivision (2).

(4) The signature of the legal representative described in subdivision (3) and the date of the signature.

(5) The signature of the homeless youth and the date of the signature.

A fee and consent waiver affidavit executed under this subsection must be verified by affirmation or representation.

As added by P.L.155-2019, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.211-2019, SEC.40; P.L.200-2023, SEC.34; P.L.214-2025, SEC.214.
Ind. Code § 31-27-5-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-27-5-12
Denial of license
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. (a) The department shall deny a license when an applicant fails to meet the requirements for a license.

(b) The department shall send the applicant written notice by certified mail that the application has been denied and give the reasons for the denial.

(c) An administrative hearing concerning the denial of a license shall be provided upon written request by the applicant. The request must be made not more than thirty (30) days after the applicant receives the written notice under subsection (b).

(d) An administrative hearing shall be held in accordance with IC 4-21.5-3.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.119.
Ind. Code § 31-27-3-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-27-3-9
Eligibility for waivers and variances
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. A child caring institution may be eligible to receive a waiver or variance from the requirements of this chapter by complying with IC 31-27-2-8.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-32-6-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-32-6-5
Closing of proceeding to protect child witness or child victim; factors
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. In determining whether closing a proceeding is necessary to protect the welfare of a child witness or child victim, the court shall consider the following:

(1) The nature of the allegation or defense.

(2) The age of a child witness or child victim.

(3) The psychological maturity of a child witness or child victim.

(4) The desire of a child witness or child victim to testify in a proceeding closed to the public.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-10(e).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-37-8.5-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 8.5 / Section 31-37-8.5-1
Procedure for juvenile diversion
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) As used in this chapter, under the policies on juvenile diversion established by the statewide juvenile justice oversight body described in IC 2-5-36-9.3, "juvenile diversion" means:

(1) a decision made by the prosecutor that results in legal action not being taken against a child, and instead provides or refers a child to juvenile probation or a community based organization for supervision and services, as necessary; and

(2) an effort to prevent further involvement of the child in the formal legal system.

(b) As used in this chapter, "restorative justice services" means services focused on repairing the harm caused to victims and the community as a result of a child's behavior.

(c) As part of the preliminary inquiry described in IC 31-37-8, the intake officer shall use a validated risk screening tool to inform its recommendation to the prosecutor.

(d) Results from the risk screening tool and the intake officer's recommendation described in subsection (c) shall be made available to the prosecutor to inform a recommendation for participation in juvenile diversion.

(e) After the preliminary inquiry, which includes use of a risk screening tool, and prior to a petition being filed, the intake officer may recommend to the prosecuting attorney that the child participate in juvenile diversion if the intake officer has probable cause to believe that the child is a delinquent child.

(f) Information obtained:

(1) from the risk screening tool described in subsection (c); and

(2) in the course of any screening, including any admission, confession, or incriminating evidence;

from a child in the course of any screening or assessment in conjunction with the proceedings under this chapter is not admissible into evidence in any factfinding hearing in which the child is accused. The child is not subject to subpoena, any other court proceeding, or any other purpose described in this section.

(g) If the prosecuting attorney approves a child's participation in juvenile diversion described in subsection (a), juvenile probation, as part of a child's juvenile diversion program, may:

(1) refer a child to community based programs or service providers, if necessary;

(2) provide case management and service coordination;

(3) provide assistance with barriers to completion; and

(4) monitor progress;

so the child can complete the terms of juvenile diversion offered to the child.

As added by P.L.101-2022, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-34-1-13 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-34-1-13
Exception for mother's good faith use of controlled substance according to prescription
Status: in_force

Sec. 13. A child is not a child in need of services under section 10 or 11 of this chapter if:

(1) a drug detected in the body of the child under section 10(1) of this chapter or the condition described in section 11(1) of this chapter was caused by a controlled substance; and

(2) during pregnancy the child's mother:

(A) possessed a valid prescription for the controlled substance; and

(B) made a good faith attempt to use the controlled substance according to the prescription instructions.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-3.1(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17.
Ind. Code § 31-28-5-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 28 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-28-5-1
Application
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. This chapter applies to:

(1) a child who receives foster care that is funded by the department or a local office; and

(2) a sibling of a child described in subdivision (1).

As added by P.L.133-2008, SEC.10. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.151.
Ind. Code § 31-32-13-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-32-13-2
Hearing and consideration of matter
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. The juvenile court may:

(1) immediately set a matter described under section 1 of this chapter for hearing; or

(2) consider the matter at any other proceeding or hearing authorized under the juvenile law.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-14(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-50 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-50
"Child welfare agency"
Status: in_force

Sec. 50. "Child welfare agency", for purposes of IC 31-25-2-20.4 and IC 31-33-18-1.6, means:

(1) the department of child services; and

(2) a person (as defined in IC 24-4-14-5) that, directly or indirectly, provides:

(A) services to a child or family of a child, for which payment is made, in whole or in part, by the department of child services or a local office of the department of child services;

(B) services to:

(i) a child who is; or

(ii) a family with;

a child at imminent risk of placement (as defined in IC 31-26-5-1) who is referred by the department of child services or a local office of the department of child services to the person for family support or family preservation services; or

(C) assistance to or works in cooperation with the department of child services in the investigations of allegations of possible child abuse or neglect in accordance with IC 31-33.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-31-9-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 31 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-31-9-9
Advisory board; terms of office; vacancies; reappointment; removal
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. (a) Terms of office for members of the advisory board are three (3) years. Terms of office begin on January 1 of the first year and end on December 31 of the third year.

(b) Vacancies in the membership of the advisory board shall be filled in the same manner as original appointments. Appointments made to fill vacancies that occur before expiration of a term are for the remainder of the unexpired term.

(c) Members of the advisory board may be reappointed for one (1) additional term.

(d) All members of the advisory board serve until their successors have been appointed.

(e) An advisory board member may be removed for good cause by the appointing authority. Good cause includes disability, inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-9.5-3(b) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.14.
Ind. Code § 31-15-6-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-15-6-5
Officers of the court
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. The guardian ad litem or the court appointed special advocate, or both, are considered officers of the court for the purpose of representing the child's interests.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-28(f) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-19-16-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 16 / Section 31-19-16-4
Modification or enforcement of agreement
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. A birth parent or an adoptive parent may file a petition with the court entering the adoption decree for the following purposes:

(1) To modify the postadoption contact agreement.

(2) To compel a birth parent or an adoptive parent to comply with the postadoption contact agreement.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-13(d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.196-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-33-8-15 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-33-8-15
Provision of information by department of child services; no obligation or liability for providing information
Status: in_force

Sec. 15. (a) If the department classifies an assessment as unsubstantiated, the department may provide information about community service programs that provide respite care, voluntary guardianship, or other support services for families in crisis to the parent or guardian of the child who is the subject of the assessment.

(b) If the department provides information to a parent or guardian under subsection (a), the department may not initiate an investigation or assessment or substantiate an assessment of child abuse or neglect based solely on the provision of the information.

(c) If the department classifies an assessment as substantiated, the department may refer the parent or guardian to a community service program that provides respite care, voluntary guardianship, or other support services for families in crisis as appropriate to meet the needs of the family.

(d) The provision of information by the department under subsection (a) does not result in, or may not be considered to result in, any obligation on the part of the department.

(e) The department is not liable for any action arising out of having furnished the information in the manner required under subsection (a), including any delegation of powers executed under IC 29-3-9-1.

As added by P.L.74-2016, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-34-21-5.6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-34-21-5.6
Exceptions to requirement to make reasonable efforts to preserve and reunify families
Status: in_force

Sec. 5.6. (a) Except as provided in subsection (c), a court may make a finding described in this section at any phase of a child in need of services proceeding.

(b) Reasonable efforts to reunify a child with the child's parent, guardian, or custodian or preserve a child's family as described in section 5.5 of this chapter are not required if the court finds any of the following:

(1) A parent, guardian, or custodian of the child has been convicted of:

(A) an offense described in IC 31-35-3-4(1)(B) or IC 31-35-3-4(1)(D) through IC 31-35-3-4(1)(J) against a victim who is:

(i) a child described in IC 31-35-3-4(2)(B); or

(ii) a parent of the child; or

(B) a comparable offense as described in clause (A) in any other state, territory, or country by a court of competent jurisdiction.

(2) A parent, guardian, or custodian of the child:

(A) has been convicted of:

(i) the murder (IC 35-42-1-1) or voluntary manslaughter (IC 35-42-1-3) of a victim who is a child described in IC 31-35-3-4(2)(B) or a parent of the child; or

(ii) a comparable offense described in item (i) in any other state, territory, or country;

(B) has been convicted of:

(i) aiding, inducing, or causing another person;

(ii) attempting; or

(iii) conspiring with another person;

to commit an offense described in clause (A);

(C) is required to register:

(i) as a sex offender under 34 U.S.C. 20913; or

(ii) as a sex or violent offender under IC 36-2-13-5.5; or

(D) committed an offense described in IC 31-34-1-3 or IC 31-34-1-3.5 against a child and the offense resulted in a conviction or a judgment under IC 31-34-11-2.

(3) A parent, guardian, or custodian of the child has been convicted of:

(A) battery as a Class A felony (for a crime committed before July 1, 2014) or Level 2 felony (for a crime committed after June 30, 2014);

(B) battery as a Class B felony (for a crime committed before July 1, 2014) or Level 3 or Level 4 felony (for a crime committed after June 30, 2014);

(C) battery as a Class C felony (for a crime committed before July 1, 2014) or Level 5 felony (for a crime committed after June 30, 2014);

(D) aggravated battery (IC 35-42-2-1.5);

(E) criminal recklessness (IC 35-42-2-2) as a Class C felony (for a crime committed before July 1, 2014) or a Level 5 felony (for a crime committed after June 30, 2014);

(F) neglect of a dependent (IC 35-46-1-4) as a Class B felony (for a crime committed before July 1, 2014) or a Level 1 or Level 3 felony (for a crime committed after June 30, 2014);

(G) promotion of human labor trafficking, promotion of human sexual trafficking, promotion of child sexual trafficking, promotion of sexual trafficking of a younger child, child sexual trafficking, or human trafficking (IC 35-42-3.5-1 through IC 35-42-3.5-1.4) as a felony; or

(H) a comparable offense described in clauses (A) through (G) under federal law or in another state, territory, or country;

against a child described in IC 31-35-3-4(2)(B).

(4) The parental rights of a parent with respect to a biological or adoptive sibling of the child have been involuntarily terminated by a court under:

(A) IC 31-35-2 (involuntary termination involving a delinquent child or a child in need of services);

(B) IC 31-35-3 (involuntary termination involving an individual convicted of a criminal offense); or

(C) any comparable law described in clause (A) or (B) in any other state, territory, or country.

(5) The child is an abandoned infant, provided that the court:

(A) has appointed a guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate for the child; and

(B) after receiving a written report and recommendation from the guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate, and after a hearing, finds that reasonable efforts to locate the child's parents or reunify the child's family would not be in the best interests of the child.

(6) The child is a safe haven infant.

(7) The child:

(A) was the subject of two (2) or more previous:

(i) child in need of services proceedings under this chapter; or

(ii) proceedings under comparable law in another state; and

(B) was removed from the home of the child's parent, guardian, or custodian under:

(i) a dispositional decree entered under IC 31-34-20-1; or

(ii) a court order issued under comparable law in another state;

in each of the proceedings described in clause (A);

and the court finds that each removal described in clause (B) was the result of conditions caused by the parent, guardian, or custodian.

(c) During or at any time after the first periodic case review under IC 31-34-21-2 of a child in need of services proceeding, if the court finds that a parent, guardian, or custodian of the child has been charged with an offense described in subsection (b)(3) and is awaiting trial, the court may make a finding that reasonable efforts to reunify the child with the child's parent, guardian, or custodian or preserve the child's family as described in section 5.5 of this chapter may be suspended pending the disposition of the parent's, guardian's, or custodian's criminal charge.

As added by P.L.35-1998, SEC.13. Amended by P.L.197-1999, SEC.5; P.L.133-2000, SEC.8; P.L.222-2001, SEC.2; P.L.217-2001, SEC.10; P.L.1-2003, SEC.78; P.L.158-2013, SEC.323; P.L.46-2016, SEC.15; P.L.144-2018, SEC.7; P.L.10-2019, SEC.125; P.L.45-2023, SEC.11; P.L.19-2024, SEC.1.
Ind. Code § 31-16-10-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-16-10-3
Use of child support exclusively for child's benefit; Title IV-D disbursements and fees
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) Any person or agency named in section 1 or 2 of this chapter is entitled to receive the child support payments from the clerk of the circuit court or the person obligated to make the payments. The payments shall be used solely for the benefit of the child entitled to receive the payments.

(b) If the payment has been assigned to the state agency administering Title IV-D of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 651 through 669), the payments shall be disbursed in accordance with federal regulations governing the Title IV-D program. The court may allow the agency to receive a reasonable fee for services provided under this chapter. The agency shall make financial reports in connection with such services at the time and in the manner that is prescribed by the court or required by law.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-14(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-7-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-18.5-7-5
Direct request
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. (a) A petitioner may file a direct request seeking:

(1) establishment or modification of a support order; or

(2) determination of parentage of a child.

In the proceeding, Indiana law applies.

(b) A petitioner may file a direct request seeking recognition and enforcement of a support order or support agreement. In the proceeding, sections 6 through 13 of this chapter apply.

(c) In a direct request for recognition and enforcement of a Convention support order or foreign support agreement:

(1) a security, bond, or deposit is not required to guarantee the payment of costs and expenses; and

(2) an obligee or obligor that in the issuing country has benefited from free legal assistance is entitled to benefit, at least to the same extent, from any free legal assistance provided for by Indiana law under the same circumstances.

(d) A petitioner filing a direct request is not entitled to assistance from the support enforcement agency.

(e) This chapter does not prevent the application of Indiana laws that provide simplified, more expeditious rules regarding a direct request for recognition and enforcement of a foreign support order or foreign support agreement.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-3-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-18.5-3-10
Duties of the child support bureau
Status: in_force

Sec. 10. (a) The child support bureau is the state information agency under this article.

(b) The state information agency shall:

(1) compile and maintain a current list, including addresses, of the Indiana tribunals that have jurisdiction under this article and any support enforcement agencies in this state and transmit a copy to the state information agency of every other state;

(2) maintain a register of names and addresses of tribunals and support enforcement agencies received from other states;

(3) forward to the appropriate tribunal in the county in Indiana in which the obligee who is an individual or the obligor resides, or in which the obligor's property is believed to be located, all documents concerning a proceeding under this article received from another state or a foreign country; and

(4) obtain information concerning the location of the obligor and the obligor's property within Indiana not exempt from execution, by such means as:

(A) postal verification and federal or state locator services;

(B) examination of telephone directories;

(C) requests for the obligor's address from income payors; and

(D) examination of governmental records, including, to the extent not prohibited by other law, those relating to:

(i) real property;

(ii) vital statistics;

(iii) law enforcement;

(iv) taxation;

(v) motor vehicles;

(vi) driver's licenses; and

(vii) Social Security.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-21-4-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-21-4-11
Preservation of court records
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. An Indiana court shall preserve the:

(1) pleadings;

(2) orders;

(3) decrees;

(4) records of hearings;

(5) evaluations; and

(6) other pertinent records;

with respect to a child custody proceeding until the child becomes eighteen (18) years of age. On appropriate request by a court or law enforcement official of another state, the Indiana court shall forward a certified copy of the records to the court of the other state.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-41-3-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 41 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-41-3-1
Determination of lead agency
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) If a child has been adjudicated to be a:

(1) child in need of services under IC 31-34; and

(2) delinquent child under IC 31-37;

unless the court adopts a contrary recommendation by a dual status assessment team, the court making the later adjudication may determine if the department of child services or the probation department of the juvenile court shall be the lead agency that will supervise the dual status child.

(b) In making a determination under subsection (a), the court shall consider:

(1) the child's social and family situation;

(2) the child's experiences with the department of child services;

(3) the child's prior adjudications of delinquency;

(4) the recommendations of the dual status assessment team; and

(5) the needs, strengths, and risks of the child.

(c) The court may require the department of child services and the probation department of the juvenile court to work together in the supervision of a dual status child and for the purposes of filing a modification under IC 31-34-23 or IC 31-37-22. If the probation department of the juvenile court is designated as the lead agency under this chapter, any recommendations made by the probation department under this subsection must be consistent with the funding provisions of IC 31-37.

(d) A court may order any service for a dual status child under this chapter that is available:

(1) to a child in need of services under IC 31-34; or

(2) to a delinquent child under IC 31-37.

As added by P.L.66-2015, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.187-2015, SEC.35.
Ind. Code § 31-11-10-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-11-10-2
Action by victim of fraud; defense
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) This section applies to a marriage that is voidable under IC 31-11-9-3 on the ground that the marriage was brought about through fraud on the part of one (1) of the parties to the marriage.

(b) The alleged victim of fraud described in subsection (a) may file an action to annul the marriage in a court that has jurisdiction over the action under section 3 of this chapter.

(c) It is a defense in an action brought under this section that, after the discovery of the alleged fraud, the alleged victim continued to cohabit with the other party to the marriage.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-7-2(a) part, (b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-19-24-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 24 / Section 31-19-24-2
Notice to state registrar; opportunity to respond; appointment of confidential intermediary; requirements
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. Upon the filing of a petition under section 1 of this chapter, the court shall:

(1) establish that the state registrar:

(A) has been served with notice of the petitioner's request for disclosure of information; and

(B) has been afforded the opportunity to respond to the petitioner's request for disclosure of information; and

(2) appoint a confidential intermediary after consultation with the state registrar or the state registrar's designee if the:

(A) requirements of subdivision (1) are complied with; and

(B) petitioner has shown:

(i) an emergency medical need;

(ii) good cause relating to the welfare of the adoptee, a birth parent, a relative of an adoptee, or a relative of a birth parent;

(iii) an interest in having contact with a pre-adoptive sibling; or

(iv) if the petitioner is a pre-adoptive sibling, an interest in having contact with an adoptee.

A confidential intermediary appointed under subdivision (2) may be any person who the court reasonably believes is competent to carry out the responsibilities described in section 3 of this chapter and meets the qualifications under section 14 of this chapter.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-4-22(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.196-1997, SEC.13; P.L.191-2011, SEC.39; P.L.97-2013, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-6-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-18.5-6-4
Choice of law
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (d), the law of the issuing state or foreign country governs:

(1) the nature, extent, amount, and duration of current payments under a registered support order;

(2) the computation and payment of arrearages and accrual of interest on the arrearages under the support order; and

(3) the existence and satisfaction of other obligations under the support order.

(b) In a proceeding for arrears under a registered support order, the statute of limitation of Indiana or of the issuing state or foreign country, whichever is longer, applies.

(c) A responding Indiana tribunal shall apply the procedures and remedies of Indiana to enforce current support and collect arrears and interest due on a support order of another state or a foreign country registered in Indiana.

(d) After an Indiana tribunal or another state determines which is the controlling order and issues an order consolidating arrears, if any, an Indiana tribunal shall prospectively apply the law of the state or foreign country issuing the controlling order, including its law on interest on arrears, on current and future support, and on consolidated arrears.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-15-5-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-15-5-4
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-8.2(d) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7. Repealed by P.L.133-2002, SEC.69.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-91 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-91
"Executive authority"
Status: in_force

Sec. 91. "Executive authority", for purposes of IC 31-37-23, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-37-23-6.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-15-4-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-15-4-1
Motions
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) In an action for dissolution of marriage under IC 31-15-2 or legal separation under IC 31-15-3, either party may file a motion for any of the following:

(1) Temporary maintenance.

(2) Temporary support or custody of a child of the marriage entitled to support.

(3) Possession of property.

(4) Counseling.

(5) A protective order under IC 34-26-5.

(b) If a party desires a protective order under subsection (a)(5), the party must file a petition under IC 34-26-5 in the court in which the case is pending, and the court may not require the moving party to give security. If the petitioner requests an ex parte protective order, the court shall immediately:

(1) review the request; and

(2) if required, set a hearing;

under IC 34-26-5. The procedure and law for a proceeding under this subsection are controlled by IC 34-26-5.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-7(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7. Amended by P.L.133-2002, SEC.27; P.L.221-2003, SEC.5.