Ind. Code § 31-19-6-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-19-6-2
Response to search request
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. Not later than five (5) days after receiving a request under section 1 of this chapter, the Indiana department of health shall:

(1) submit an affidavit to the attorney or agency verifying whether a record of a paternity determination has been filed under IC 31-14-9-2 concerning the child; and

(2) search the putative father registry established by IC 31-19-5 and notify the attorney or agency, in compliance with IC 31-19-5-16 as to whether a putative father has:

(A) registered concerning the child; or

(B) filed a petition to establish paternity in relation to the child.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-10.5(e).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.58-2009, SEC.20; P.L.56-2023, SEC.280.
Ind. Code § 31-17-2-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-17-2-7
Court to determine law and facts
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. The court without a jury shall determine questions of law and fact.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-23(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-21-6-14 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-21-6-14
Information on a warrant to take physical custody of a child
Status: in_force

Sec. 14. (a) A warrant to take physical custody of a child must:

(1) recite the facts on which a conclusion of imminent serious physical harm or removal from the jurisdiction is based;

(2) direct law enforcement officers to take physical custody of the child immediately; and

(3) provide for the placement of the child pending final relief.

(b) The respondent must be served with the petition, warrant, and order immediately after the child is taken into physical custody.

(c) A warrant to take physical custody of a child is enforceable throughout Indiana. If the court finds on the basis of the testimony of the petitioner or other witness that a less intrusive remedy is not effective, the court may authorize law enforcement officers to enter private property to take physical custody of the child. If required by exigent circumstances of the case, the court may authorize law enforcement officers to make a forcible entry at any hour.

(d) The court may impose conditions on the placement of a child to ensure the appearance of the child and the child's custodian.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-32-13-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-32-13-4
Finding; admissible evidence
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. The court shall issue an order under section 1 of this chapter if the court finds that good cause to issue the order is shown upon the record. The court may also consider any other evidence presented in other proceedings or hearings authorized under the juvenile law concerning the child as the basis for the issuance of the order.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-14(d) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-27-4-31 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-27-4-31
Repealed
Status: repealed

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Repealed by P.L.128-2012, SEC.114.
Ind. Code § 31-27-3-34 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-27-3-34
Expiration of injunction for unlicensed operation
Status: in_force

Sec. 34. A court order granted under section 33(b)(2) of this chapter expires when the child caring institution is issued a license.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25.5-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25.5 / Section 31-19-25.5-7
Adoptive parents request information; request or consent of adult pre-adoptive sibling required; provide information of court proceeding to request release of adoption information
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) The adoptive parents of an adoptee who is less than twenty-one (21) years of age may submit a written request for information concerning the identity and present location of any pre-adoptive siblings of the adoptee.

(b) The state registrar shall release information concerning the name and present location of an adult pre-adoptive sibling to the adoptive parents if the pre-adoptive sibling submitted a written request under section 2 of this chapter.

(c) If a pre-adoptive sibling has not submitted a request under section 2 of this chapter, the state registrar shall do the following:

(1) Search the sealed adoption records for information concerning the pre-adoptive sibling.

(2) Release information to the adoptive parents only if the pre-adoptive sibling is at least twenty-one (21) years of age and consents to the release of the information.

(d) If a pre-adoptive sibling is less than twenty-one (21) years of age, the state registrar shall provide information on requesting the release of adoption information under IC 31-19-24 to the adoptive parents.

As added by P.L.191-2011, SEC.55.
Ind. Code § 31-15-2-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-15-2-4
Caption
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. A proceeding for dissolution of marriage is commenced by the filing of a petition entitled, "In Re the marriage of _________ and __________."

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-4(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-19-10-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-19-10-7
Service of notice of adoption contest; protection of privacy of adoption petitioner
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) The court may:

(1) send all notices of the filing of a motion to contest an adoption;

(2) conduct bifurcated hearings under this chapter; and

(3) issue an order protecting the anonymity of a petitioner for adoption.

(b) An order issued under subsection (a)(3) may include an order directed to an attorney who represents a party:

(1) contesting an adoption; or

(2) seeking to withdraw a consent to adoption.

An order under subdivision (1) or (2) may order the attorney not to disclose information that identifies or may tend to identify a petitioner for adoption.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.61-2003, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-19-2-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-19-2-9
Deposit of fees in adoption history fund
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. Fees collected under section 8 of this chapter shall be deposited in the adoption history fund established by IC 31-19-18-6.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-2(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-12-2-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 12 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-12-2-9
Majority decision of judges
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. The judges in carrying out this chapter must act by a majority of all their number.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-24-8 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-34-4-0.2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-34-4-0.2
Repealed
Status: repealed

As added by P.L.220-2011, SEC.514. Repealed by P.L.63-2012, SEC.37.
Ind. Code § 31-14-11-1.1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-14-11-1.1
Temporary order for child support
Status: in_force

Sec. 1.1. In a paternity proceeding, the court shall issue a temporary order for child support if there is clear and convincing evidence that the man involved in the proceeding is the child's biological father.

As added by P.L.257-1997(ss), SEC.39.
Ind. Code § 31-19-8-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-19-8-9
Prompt hearing and determination of adoption
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. As soon as possible after the provisions of IC 31-19-7-1 and this chapter have been satisfied, the court shall proceed to hear and determine the petition for adoption.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-5 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-27-5-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-27-5-3
Group home plat or deed restrictions
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) This section applies to:

(1) a restriction;

(2) a reservation;

(3) a condition;

(4) an exception; or

(5) a covenant;

that is created after June 30, 1990, in a subdivision plat, deed, or other instrument of or pertaining to the transfer, sale, lease, or use of property.

(b) This section applies to a group home that houses:

(1) not more than ten (10) children; and

(2) only children who are judicially determined to be either:

(A) children in need of services under IC 31-34-1 (or IC 31-6-4-3 or IC 31-6-4-3.1 before their repeal); or

(B) children who have committed a delinquent act under IC 31-37-2-2, IC 31-37-2-3, or IC 31-37-2-5 (or IC 31-6-4-1(a)(2), IC 31-6-4-1(a)(3), or IC 31-6-4-1(a)(5) before their repeal).

(c) A restriction, a reservation, a condition, an exception, or a covenant in a subdivision plat, deed, or other instrument of or pertaining to the:

(1) transfer;

(2) sale;

(3) lease; or

(4) use;

of property that would permit the residential use of property but prohibit the use of that property as a group home is, to the extent of the prohibition, void for public policy reasons.

(d) The prohibition described in subsection (c) is void even if the prohibition is based on any of the following grounds:

(1) The group home is a business.

(2) The persons residing in the group home are not related.

(3) Any other reason.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-17-2-20 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-17-2-20
Confidentiality of interview, report, or investigation
Status: in_force

Sec. 20. If the court finds it necessary to protect the child's welfare that the record of any interview, a report, or an investigation in a custody proceeding not be a public record, the court may make an appropriate order accordingly.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-23(d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-12-2-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 12 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-12-2-6
Duties of bureau
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. The domestic relations counseling bureau shall perform the following duties in domestic relations cases and such other duties as the judges described in section 1(1) of this chapter, the judge described in section 1(2) of this chapter, or a magistrate assigns to the domestic relations counseling bureau:

(1) The domestic relations counseling bureau shall promptly receive all requests for counseling services for the purpose of disposing of the requests under this chapter.

(2) Whenever a proceeding is initiated and either party requests counseling or mediation, the domestic relations counseling bureau shall, in the bureau's discretion, interview and counsel each party or confer with both parties jointly for the purpose of reconciling the differences between the parties and making recommendations to the judge of any court upon referral.

(3) In each case assigned to the bureau in which the custody, support, or welfare of a child is involved, to protect and conserve the interest of the child, the domestic relations counseling bureau shall investigate and report upon:

(A) the status and condition of the parties to the cause;

(B) the status and condition of the child;

(C) the provisions made or to be made for the protection of the welfare of the child; and

(D) any other matter pertaining to the marriage that may affect the welfare of the child.

(4) Upon order of the judges described in section 1(1) of this chapter or the judge described in section 1(2) of this chapter, the domestic relations counseling bureau shall:

(A) make post-divorce studies of problems arising in connection with child custody, support, and parenting time;

(B) provide assistance to the parties in the enforcement of support orders; and

(C) cause reports to be made and statistics to be compiled, which records and reports shall be kept as the judges described in section 1(1) of this chapter or the judge described in section 1(2) of this chapter directs.

(5) The domestic relations counseling bureau shall provide supervision in connection with referred cases or other cases as the judges described in section 1(1) of this chapter or the judge described in section 1(2) of this chapter may order.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-24-5 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.4. Amended by P.L.68-2005, SEC.10.
Ind. Code § 31-34-18-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 18 / Section 31-34-18-5
Examinations
Status: in_force

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

(1) Authorize any 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.17.
Ind. Code § 31-37-2-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-37-2-7
Delinquent act; fireworks violation
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. A child commits a delinquent act if, before becoming eighteen (18) years of age, the child violates IC 22-11-14-6(c) concerning minors and fireworks.

As added by P.L.187-2006, SEC.16.
Ind. Code § 31-34-19-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-34-19-3
Civil commitment; child with a mental illness
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. If it appears to the juvenile court that a child has a mental illness, the court may:

(1) refer the matter to the court having probate jurisdiction for civil commitment proceedings under IC 12-26; or

(2) initiate a civil commitment proceeding under IC 12-26.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.99-2007, SEC.196.
Ind. Code § 31-13-2-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 13 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-13-2-2
Finality of determination; subsequent review on petition of defendant less than 18 years of age at time of determination
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) Except as provided in subsection (b), a final determination made under section 1 of this chapter (or IC 31-7-8-3 before its repeal) is conclusive among the parties to the action and among persons who make claims under parties to the action.

(b) A defendant who was less than eighteen (18) years of age at the time the determination under section 1 of this chapter (or IC 31-7-8-3 before its repeal) became final may petition the circuit or superior court in which the original action was taken to review the determination. This petition must be filed before the individual becomes nineteen (19) years of age.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-8-4.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-151 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-151
"Legend drug"
Status: in_force

Sec. 151. "Legend drug", for purposes of the juvenile law, has the meaning set forth in IC 16-18-2-199.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25-19 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-19-25-19
Contact; disclosure of identifying information; written consent
Status: in_force

Sec. 19. (a) Except as provided in section 18.5 of this chapter and subject to section 21 of this chapter, upon a request described under section 18 of this chapter, a local office, a licensed child placing agency, or an attorney that contacts an adoptee may not disclose identifying information unless the adoptee:

(1) if the adoptee is at least twenty-one (21) years of age, gives written consent; or

(2) if the adoptee is less than twenty-one (21) years of age, has the written consent of the adoptee's adoptive parents;

to the release of identifying information by the local office, the licensed child placing agency, or the attorney.

(b) If:

(1) an adoptee who is at least twenty-one (21) years of age; or

(2) an adoptive parent of an adoptee who is less than twenty-one (21) years of age;

consents to the release of identifying information but does not provide the consent in writing, the local office, the licensed child placing agency, or the attorney may inform the birth parent regarding the fact that the adoptee or the adoptive parent has consented to the release of identifying information. The local office, the licensed child placing agency, or the attorney may inquire as to whether the adoptee or adoptive parent, whose consent is still needed before identifying information may be released, is interested in participating in the adoption registry under IC 31-19-18 through IC 31-19-24, this chapter, and IC 31-19-25.5.

As added by P.L.191-2011, SEC.52. Amended by P.L.6-2012, SEC.204; P.L.128-2012, SEC.82.
Ind. Code § 31-33-26-14 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 26 / Section 31-33-26-14
Amendment or expungement from index of inaccurate report
Status: in_force

Sec. 14. The department shall immediately amend or expunge from the index a substantiated report containing an inaccuracy arising from an administrative or a clerical error.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.67.
Ind. Code § 31-27-6-15 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-27-6-15
Records regarding children
Status: in_force

Sec. 15. (a) A licensee shall keep records required by the department regarding each child in the control and care of the licensee and shall report to the department upon request the facts the department requires with reference to children.

(b) The department shall keep records regarding children and facts learned about children and the children's relatives confidential.

(c) The following have access to records regarding children and facts learned about children:

(1) A state agency involved in the licensing of the child placing agency.

(2) A legally mandated child protection agency.

(3) A law enforcement agency.

(4) A citizen review panel established under IC 31-25-2-20.4.

(5) The department of child services ombudsman established by IC 4-13-19-3.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.138-2007, SEC.62; P.L.182-2009(ss), SEC.377; P.L.123-2014, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-195 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-195
"Putative father"
Status: in_force

Sec. 195. "Putative father", for purposes of IC 31-19 and IC 31-35-1, means a male of any age who is alleged to be or claims that he may be a child's father but who:

(1) is not presumed to be the child's father under IC 31-14-7-1(1) or IC 31-14-7-1(2); and

(2) has not established paternity of the child:

(A) in a court proceeding; or

(B) by executing a paternity affidavit under IC 16-37-2-2.1;

before the filing of an adoption petition.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-17-6-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-17-6-1
Appointment
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. A court, in a proceeding under IC 31-17-2, IC 31-17-4, this chapter, IC 31-17-7, IC 31-28-5, or IC 31-35-3.5, may appoint a guardian ad litem, a court appointed special advocate, or both, for a child at any time.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9. Amended by P.L.133-2008, SEC.9; P.L.64-2016, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-19-17-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 17 / Section 31-19-17-2
Report of medical, psychological, and educational records of birth parents
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. A person, a licensed child placing agency, or a local office placing a child for adoption shall prepare or cause to be prepared a report summarizing the available medical, psychological, and educational records of the person or agency concerning the birth parents. The person, agency, or local office shall exclude from this report information that would identify the birth parents unless the prospective adoptive parents know the identity of the birth parents. The person, agency, or local office shall give the report to:

(1) the prospective adoptive parents:

(A) at the time the home study or evaluation concerning the suitability of the proposed home for the child is commenced;

(B) as soon as practical after the prospective adoptive parents are matched with the birth mother; or

(C) with the consent of the prospective adoptive parents, not more than thirty (30) days after the child is placed with the prospective adoptive parents; and

(2) upon request and without information that would identify the birth parents unless an adoptee already knows the identity of the birth parents, an adoptee who:

(A) is at least twenty-one (21) years of age; and

(B) provides proof of identification.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.197-1997, SEC.22; P.L.100-2005, SEC.2; P.L.129-2005, SEC.4; P.L.58-2009, SEC.25; P.L.162-2011, SEC.17; P.L.128-2012, SEC.59.
Ind. Code § 31-25-2-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-25-2-2
Personnel
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. The director may employ necessary personnel to carry out the department's responsibilities subject to:

(1) the budget agency's approval under IC 4-12-1-13; and

(2) IC 4-15-2.2.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271. Amended by P.L.6-2012, SEC.206.
Ind. Code § 31-39-3-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-39-3-3
Public inspection of records of child's detention in secure facility
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Records relating to the detention of any child in a secure facility shall be open to public inspection.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-8-1.2(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.22.
Ind. Code § 31-36-2-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 36 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-36-2-6
Notification upon finding missing child
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. When a law enforcement agency is notified that a child for whom that agency prepared a report under IC 31-36-1-1 has been found, that agency shall promptly notify the persons described in IC 31-36-1-3 and IC 31-36-1-4.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-13-5.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.19.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-190 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-190
"Property"
Status: in_force

Sec. 190. (a) "Property", for purposes of the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act under IC 31-11-3, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-11-3-3.

(b) "Property", for purposes of IC 31-15, IC 31-16, and IC 31-17, means all the assets of either party or both parties, including:

(1) a present right to withdraw pension or retirement benefits;

(2) the right to receive pension or retirement benefits that are not forfeited upon termination of employment or that are vested (as defined in Section 411 of the Internal Revenue Code) but that are payable after the dissolution of marriage; and

(3) the right to receive disposable retired or retainer pay (as defined in 10 U.S.C. 1408(a)) acquired during the marriage that is or may be payable after the dissolution of marriage.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-37-26-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 26 / Section 31-37-26-4
Competency evaluation; disinterested person; location
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) If the court orders a competency evaluation under section 3 of this chapter, the court shall appoint one (1) disinterested person to evaluate the child's competency. However, if a party requests the appointment of an additional person to conduct an evaluation, the court shall appoint a second disinterested person to evaluate the child's competency.

(b) A person appointed under subsection (a) may be a:

(1) psychiatrist; or

(2) psychologist endorsed by the Indiana state board of examiners in psychology as health service providers in psychology;

who has expertise in determining competency in juveniles.

(c) The court shall order the competency evaluation to be performed in a location or facility that, consistent with the nature of the case and the best interests and needs of the child:

(1) imposes the fewest restrictions on the freedom of the child and the child's parent, guardian, or custodian;

(2) interferes the least with family autonomy and family life; and

(3) is as close as practicable to the home of the parents, guardian, or custodian, consistent with the best interests and special needs of the child.

The department shall not be responsible for the payment of a competency evaluation.

(d) Not later than seven (7) days from the date the court appoints a person to conduct a competency evaluation, the juvenile probation department shall provide the person appointed to conduct the competency evaluation with all relevant files in the possession of the probation department, including any preliminary investigatory records and a copy of the delinquency allegations.

(e) A person appointed to conduct a competency evaluation may consider any relevant information.

(f) Not later than fourteen (14) days upon completion of the competency evaluation, the person who conducted the evaluation shall provide a written report to the court and to all attorneys of record. The competency report shall include the following:

(1) The opinion of the person who conducted the competency evaluation as to the child's ability to understand the nature and objectives of the proceeding against the child.

(2) The opinion of the person who conducted the competency evaluation as to the child's ability to assist in the child's defense.

(3) If a person who conducted the competency evaluation determined that the child is not competent, a:

(A) description of the child's need for services; and

(B) recommendation concerning the least restrictive setting and treatment that would assist in restoring the child's competency.

The competency report may not contain any statement from the child relating to the alleged delinquent act.

As added by P.L.157-2021, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-15-4-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-15-4-12
Change of venue or change from judge; effect on provisional orders
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. If the court grants a change of venue or change from the judge after the preliminary order of support, custody, or parenting time is issued, either party may:

(1) file a petition for a subsequent preliminary hearing on the issue of temporary child support, temporary custody, or parenting time;

(2) seek relief from the original order; and

(3) request that the court conduct a hearing relating to any other temporary order available under this article.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-7(e) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7. Amended by P.L.68-2005, SEC.28.
Ind. Code § 31-19-4-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-19-4-4
Notice to unnamed putative father; form
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. Notice of the adoption proceeding required under section 3 of this chapter shall be given to an unnamed putative father in substantially the following form:

"NOTICE TO UNNAMED FATHER

The unnamed putative father of the child born to ______ (mother's name) on _____ (date), or the person who claims to be the father of the child born to _____ (mother's name) on _____ (date), is notified that a petition for adoption of the child was filed in the office of the clerk of _____ court, _____ (address of court).

If the unnamed putative father seeks to contest the adoption of the child, the unnamed putative father must file a motion to contest the adoption in accordance with IC 31-19-10-1 in the above named court within fifteen (15) days after the date of service of this notice. This notice may be served by publication.

If the unnamed putative father does not file a motion to contest the adoption within fifteen (15) days after service of this notice, the above named court shall hear and determine the petition for adoption. The unnamed putative father's consent is irrevocably implied and the unnamed putative father loses the right to contest the adoption or the validity of the unnamed putative father's implied consent to the adoption. The unnamed putative father loses the right to establish paternity of the child, by affidavit or otherwise, in Indiana or any other jurisdiction.

Nothing __________ (mother's name) or any one else says to the unnamed putative father of the child relieves the unnamed putative father of his obligations under this notice.

Under Indiana law, a putative father is a person who is named as or claims that he may be the father of a child born out of wedlock but who has not yet been legally proven to be the child's father.

This notice complies with IC 31-19-4-4 but does not exhaustively set forth the unnamed putative father's legal obligations under the Indiana adoption statutes. A person being served with this notice should consult the Indiana adoption statutes.".

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.200-1999, SEC.16; P.L.61-2003, SEC.7; P.L.21-2010, SEC.2; P.L.113-2017, SEC.2; P.L.244-2023, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-28-4-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 28 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-28-4-7
Placement of delinquent children in institution in another state; retained jurisdiction
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. A court having jurisdiction to place delinquent children may place the delinquent child in an institution in another state under Article VI of the interstate compact on the placement of children (section 1 of this chapter) and shall retain jurisdiction as provided in Article V.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.274.
Ind. Code § 31-17-5-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-17-5-5
Service of petition and summons
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. Whenever a petition is filed, a copy of the petition, together with a copy of a summons, shall be served upon the custodial and noncustodial parent or guardian of each child with whom visitation is sought in the same manner as service of summons in civil actions generally.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.7-5.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-19-25-1
Application of chapter
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. Before July 1, 2018, this chapter applies to all adoptions that are filed after December 31, 1993. Beginning July 1, 2018, this chapter applies to all adoptions, regardless of the date the adoption was filed.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-4.5-1.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.3-2016, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-37-23-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 23 / Section 31-37-23-3
"Court" defined
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. As used in this chapter, "court" refers to the juvenile court.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-10-2 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-34-1-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-34-1-4
Parent, guardian, or custodian allowing child's participation in obscene performance
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. A child is a child in need of services if before the child becomes eighteen (18) years of age:

(1) the child's parent, guardian, or custodian allows the child to participate in an obscene performance (as defined by IC 35-49-2-2 or IC 35-49-3-2); and

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

(A) the child is not receiving; and

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

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-3(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.2-2005, SEC.78.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-2-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-18.5-2-8
Child support orders for two or more obligees
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. In responding to registrations or petitions for enforcement of two (2) or more child support orders in effect at the same time with regard to the same obligor and different individual obligees, at least one (1) of which was issued by a tribunal of another state or a foreign country, an Indiana tribunal shall enforce those orders in the same manner as if the orders had been issued by an Indiana tribunal.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-34-25-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-34-25-3
Petition requirements
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. A petition seeking to restrain a person from contact must be entitled "In the Matter of a No Contact Order for ___________". The petition must allege the following:

(1) That the respondent is likely to have direct or indirect contact with the child in the absence of an order under this chapter.

(2) That the child has been adjudicated a child in need of services.

(3) That the best interests of the child will be served if the person refrains from direct or indirect contact with the child.

As added by P.L.133-2002, SEC.35.
Ind. Code § 31-14-11-18 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-14-11-18
Repealed
Status: repealed

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.111-2012, SEC.1. Repealed by P.L.207-2013, SEC.36.
Ind. Code § 31-30.5-1-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 30.5 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-30.5-1-2
Juvenile interrogations; admissibility of statements
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. A statement made during the custodial interrogation of a juvenile that is conducted at a place of detention is not admissible against the juvenile in a juvenile proceeding unless the interrogation complies with the requirements of Indiana Evidence Rule 617.

As added by P.L.187-2015, SEC.27.
Ind. Code § 31-37-12-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-37-12-4
Waiver of jurisdiction
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. The court shall next determine whether the prosecuting attorney intends to seek a waiver of jurisdiction under IC 31-30-3. If a waiver is sought, the court:

(1) may not accept an admission or a denial of the allegations from the child under section 9 of this chapter; and

(2) shall do the following:

(A) Schedule a waiver hearing.

(B) Advise the child according to section 5 of this chapter.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-13(d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-17-4-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-17-4-2
Modification or denial; restriction of parenting time rights
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. The court may modify an order granting or denying parenting time rights whenever modification would serve the best interests of the child. However, the court shall not restrict a parent's parenting time rights unless the court finds that the parenting time might endanger the child's physical health or significantly impair the child's emotional development.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-24(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9. Amended by P.L.68-2005, SEC.46.
Ind. Code § 31-37-21-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-37-21-1
Progress report; modification report
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) Before a hearing under IC 31-37-20-2 or IC 31-37-20-3, the probation department shall prepare a report on the progress made in implementing the dispositional decree, including the progress made in rehabilitating the child, preventing placement out-of-home, reuniting the family, or finalizing another permanency plan as approved by the court.

(b) Before preparing the report required by subsection (a), the probation department shall consult a foster parent of the child about the child's progress made while in the foster parent's care.

(c) If modification of the dispositional decree is recommended, the probation department shall prepare a modification report containing the information required by IC 31-37-17 and request a formal court hearing.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.351; P.L.146-2008, SEC.658.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-254 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-254
"Victim of human or sexual trafficking"
Status: in_force

Sec. 254. "Victim of human or sexual trafficking", for purposes of IC 31-34-1-3.5, refers to a child who is recruited, harbored, transported, or engaged in:

(1) forced labor;

(2) involuntary servitude;

(3) prostitution;

(4) juvenile prostitution, as defined in IC 35-31.5-2-178.5;

(5) child exploitation under IC 35-42-4-4;

(6) marriage, unless authorized by a court under IC 31-11-1-7;

(7) trafficking for the purpose of prostitution, juvenile prostitution, or participation in sexual conduct as defined in IC 35-42-4-4(a); or

(8) human trafficking as defined in IC 35-42-3.5-0.5.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-21-2-14 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-21-2-14
"Person acting as a parent"
Status: in_force

Sec. 14. "Person acting as a parent" means a person, other than a parent, who:

(1) has physical custody of the child or has had physical custody for a period of at least six (6) consecutive months, including a temporary absence, within one (1) year immediately before the commencement of a child custody proceeding; and

(2) has been awarded legal custody by a court or claims a right to legal custody under Indiana law.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-36-1-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 36 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-36-1-3
Agencies that are to receive report
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Upon completion of the report required by section 1 of this chapter, the law enforcement agency shall immediately forward the contents of the report to:

(1) all law enforcement agencies that have jurisdiction of the location in which the missing child lives and all law enforcement agencies that have jurisdiction of the location in which the missing child was last seen;

(2) all law enforcement agencies to which the person who provided notification requests the report be sent, if the law enforcement agency determines that the request is reasonable in light of the information contained in the report;

(3) all law enforcement agencies that request a copy of the report;

(4) the Indiana clearinghouse for information on missing children, missing veterans at risk, and missing endangered adults established by IC 10-13-5;

(5) the Indiana data and communication system (IDACS);

(6) the National Crime Information Center's Missing Person File; and

(7) the department.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-13-4(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.19. Amended by P.L.2-2003, SEC.77; P.L.43-2009, SEC.21; P.L.183-2017, SEC.54; P.L.40-2024, SEC.29.
Ind. Code § 31-32-1-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-32-1-3
Applicability of Indiana Rules of Trial Procedure
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. In cases not subject to section 1 or 2 of this chapter, the Indiana Rules of Trial Procedure apply in all matters not covered by the juvenile law.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-1(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-19-29-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 29 / Section 31-19-29-4
Permissive provisions
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. A compact entered into pursuant to the authority conferred by this chapter may contain provisions in addition to those required pursuant to section 3 of this chapter, as follows:

(1) Provisions establishing procedures and entitlements to medical, developmental, child care, or other social services for the child in accordance with applicable laws, even though the child and the adoptive parents are in a state other than the one responsible for or providing the services or the funds to defray part or all of the costs thereof.

(2) Such other provisions as may be appropriate or incidental to the proper administration of the compact.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-5-4.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-39-3-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-39-3-2
Public access to juvenile delinquency records
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. Except for information listed in IC 5-14-3-4(a)(1) through IC 5-14-3-4(a)(15), the following information contained in records involving allegations of delinquency that would be a crime if committed by an adult is considered public information:

(1) The nature of the offense allegedly committed and the circumstances immediately surrounding the alleged offense, including the time, location, and property involved.

(2) The identity of any victim.

(3) A description of the method of apprehension.

(4) Any instrument of physical force used.

(5) The identity of any officers assigned to the investigation, except for the undercover units.

(6) The age and sex of any child apprehended or sought for the alleged commission of the offense.

(7) The identity of a child, if the child is apprehended or sought for the alleged commission of:

(A) an offense over which a juvenile court does not have jurisdiction under IC 31-30-1-2 and IC 31-30-1-4; or

(B) an act specified under IC 31-30-3-3.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-8-1.2(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.22. Amended by P.L.86-2022, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-21-6-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-21-6-9
Court duties after petition is filed
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. (a) On the filing of a petition, the court:

(1) shall issue an order directing the respondent to appear in person with or without the child at a hearing; and

(2) may enter an order necessary to ensure the safety of the parties and the child.

The hearing must be held on the next judicial day after service of the order unless holding the hearing on that date is impossible. In that event, the court shall hold the hearing on the first judicial day possible. The court may extend the date of hearing at the request of the petitioner.

(b) An order issued under subsection (a) must state the time and place of the hearing and advise the respondent that at the hearing the court will order that the petitioner may take immediate physical custody of the child and the payment of fees, costs, and expenses under section 15 of this chapter and may schedule a hearing to determine whether further relief is appropriate unless the respondent appears and 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 having jurisdiction 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 § 31-37-25-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-37-25-2
Verification
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. A petition filed under section 1 of this chapter must be verified.

As added by P.L.133-2002, SEC.38.
Ind. Code § 31-33-8-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-33-8-12
Classifying reports as substantiated or unsubstantiated
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. Upon completion of an assessment, the department shall classify reports as substantiated or unsubstantiated.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.70-2004, SEC.13; P.L.234-2005, SEC.126; P.L.131-2009, SEC.50.
Ind. Code § 31-14-7-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-14-7-2
Rebuttable presumption; child's biological father
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) If there is not a presumed biological father under section 1 of this chapter, there is a rebuttable presumption that a man is the child's biological father if, with the consent of the child's mother, the man:

(1) receives the child into the man's home; and

(2) openly holds the child out as the man's biological child.

(b) The circumstances under this section do not establish the man's paternity. A man's paternity may only be established as described in IC 31-14-2-1.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-9(b) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.138-2001, SEC.7; P.L.1-2009, SEC.156.
Ind. Code § 31-16-10-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-16-10-2
Forwarding of payments to Title IV-D agency
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) If the clerk of the court or the state central collection unit is notified by the Title IV-D agency or the agency's designee that:

(1) the child who is the beneficiary of a support order is receiving assistance under the:

(A) federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program (45 CFR 260 et seq.); or

(B) Title IV-E assistance program (42 U.S.C. 670 et seq.);

(2) an assignment of support rights in favor of the state is in effect against the person obligated to make child support payments; and

(3) the Title IV-D agency has sent notice to the child support obligor and obligee;

the clerk of the court or the state central collection unit shall forward the child support payments directly to the Title IV-D agency without further order of the court.

(b) The Title IV-D agency shall disburse the payments in accordance with federal regulations governing the Title IV-D program.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-14(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.148-2006, SEC.16; P.L.1-2007, SEC.193; P.L.1-2009, SEC.159; P.L.128-2012, SEC.38.
Ind. Code § 31-37-26-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 26 / Section 31-37-26-3
Competency evaluation ordered by the court
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. If, at any time before disposition, a court has reasonable grounds to believe that a child is not competent, the court shall order the child to undergo a competency evaluation as described in section 4 of this chapter, unless the child is represented by counsel and waives the competency evaluation.

As added by P.L.157-2021, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-3-17 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-18.5-3-17
Communication between tribunals
Status: in_force

Sec. 17. (a) An Indiana tribunal may communicate with a tribunal outside Indiana in a record or by telephone, electronic mail, or other means, to obtain information concerning the laws, the legal effect of a judgment, decree, or order of that tribunal, and the status of a proceeding.

(b) An Indiana tribunal may furnish similar information by similar means to a tribunal outside Indiana.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-33-8-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-33-8-6
Investigatory duties of department of child services; purpose
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. The department shall promptly make a thorough assessment upon either the oral or written report. The primary purpose of the assessment is the protection of the child.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.121; P.L.131-2009, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-19-8-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-19-8-3
List of licensed child placing agencies and local offices of the department
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) The department shall annually compile a list of:

(1) licensed child placing agencies; and

(2) the local offices;

that conduct the inspection and supervision required for adoption of a child by IC 31-19-7-1 and section 1 of this chapter.

(b) The list of licensed child placing agencies and local offices must include a description of the following:

(1) Fees charged by each agency and the department.

(2) Geographic area served by each agency and local office.

(3) Approximate waiting period for the inspection or supervision by each licensed child placing agency and local office.

(4) Other relevant information regarding the inspection and supervision provided by a licensed child placing agency or a local office under IC 31-19-7-1 and section 1 of this chapter.

(c) The department shall do the following:

(1) Maintain in its office or on its Internet web site copies of the list compiled under this section for distribution to individuals who request a copy.

(2) Provide each local office with sufficient copies of the list prepared under this section for distribution to individuals who request a copy.

(3) Provide a copy of the list to each public library organized under IC 36-12.

(d) The department and each:

(1) local office; and

(2) public library organized under IC 36-12;

shall make the list compiled under this section available for public inspection.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-3.5.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.1-2005, SEC.201; P.L.145-2006, SEC.249; P.L.131-2009, SEC.16; P.L.128-2012, SEC.51.
Ind. Code § 31-25-2-26 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-25-2-26
Collaborative child and family assistance programs
Status: in_force

Sec. 26. (a) The department may collaborate with public and private entities to implement or participate in programs, including technology based platforms, designed to connect the department and local offices with supportive local community organizations that may provide assistance in meeting the needs of children and families in crisis.

(b) Before September 30 of each year that the department is participating in programs described in subsection (a), the department shall report to the legislative council in an electronic format under IC 5-14-6 the following information for the preceding state fiscal year concerning the department's implementation or participation in the programs:

(1) The number of requests submitted to any programs.

(2) The number of requests met through any program.

(3) The number of children provided services through any program.

(4) The estimated economic impact.

This subsection expires June 30, 2024.

As added by P.L.187-2019, SEC.1.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-110 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-110
"Foster youth"
Status: in_force

Sec. 110. (a) "Foster youth", for purposes of IC 31-25-2-29, refers to an individual:

(1) who is at least twelve (12) years of age;

(2) who is not more than twenty-three (23) years of age;

(3) who:

(A) is a child in need of services under IC 31-34-1; or

(B) is receiving collaborative care (as defined in IC 31-28-5.8-1); and

(4) who is in an out-of-home placement.

(b) "Foster youth", for purposes of IC 31-26-4.5, refers to an individual:

(1) who is at least fifteen (15) years of age;

(2) who is not more than twenty-three (23) years of age; and

(3) who:

(A) is adjudicated a child in need of services under IC 31-34-1; or

(B) was in foster care when the individual became an adult (as defined in section 14(b) of this chapter).

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-26-4.5-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 4.5 / Section 31-26-4.5-4
Fund establishment; money in the fund; administration; investments; appropriation
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) The insuring foster youth trust fund is established to carry out the purposes of this chapter.

(b) The fund consists of the following:

(1) Appropriations made by the general assembly.

(2) Interest as provided in subsection (f).

(3) Fees collected from an insuring foster youth trust license plate, if one is issued under IC 9-18.5.

(4) Money received pursuant to subsection (c).

(5) Money donated to the fund, including donations from a nonprofit subsidiary corporation established under section 9 of this chapter.

(6) Money transferred to the fund from other funds.

(c) The department may apply for all federal funds that are available for which the state is eligible to carry out the purposes of this chapter.

(d) The department shall administer the fund.

(e) The expenses of administering the fund and this chapter shall be paid from the fund. The fund's administrative expenses may not exceed ten percent (10%) of the amounts deposited into the fund.

(f) The treasurer of state shall invest the money in the fund not currently needed to meet the obligations of the fund in the same manner as other public trust funds are invested. Interest that accrues from these investments shall be deposited in the fund.

(g) Money in the fund is continuously appropriated for the purposes of the fund.

(h) Money in the fund at the end of a state fiscal year does not revert to the state general fund.

As added by P.L.59-2022, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.97-2023, SEC.10.
Ind. Code § 31-32-16-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 16 / Section 31-32-16-2
Filing of verified petition; affidavit; placement in state owned or operated facility; participation of parent, guardian, or custodian in treatment
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) A parent, guardian, or custodian of a child may file a verified petition with the juvenile court in the county in which the child resides for involuntary drug and alcohol treatment if the child:

(1) is incapable of consenting; or

(2) refuses to consent;

to voluntary treatment.

(b) The verified petition must include an affidavit from a person described in section 4(a) of this chapter who has examined or treated the child not more than thirty (30) days before the filing of the verified petition. The affidavit must state that reasonable grounds exist to believe the child named in the petition is a drug or alcohol abuser (as defined in 440 IAC 4.4-1-1).

(c) Involuntary drug and alcohol treatment under this chapter may include appropriate placement in an inpatient or outpatient program or facility. A person ordered to complete inpatient drug and alcohol treatment under this chapter may not be placed in a facility that is owned or operated by the state.

(d) The judge of the juvenile court in which the verified petition is filed shall inform each parent, guardian, or custodian of the child that the parent, guardian, or custodian may be ordered to participate in any aspect of the child's treatment.

As added by P.L.196-2003, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-21-4-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-21-4-1
Court communication with a court in another state
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. An Indiana court may communicate with a court in another state concerning a proceeding arising under this article.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-15-2-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-15-2-5
Verified petition; averments; guardian filing petition
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. (a) A petition for dissolution of marriage must:

(1) be verified; and

(2) set forth the following:

(A) The residence of each party and the length of residence in the state and county.

(B) The date of the marriage.

(C) The date on which the parties separated.

(D) The name, age, and address of:

(i) any living child less than twenty-one (21) years of age; and

(ii) any incapacitated child;

of the marriage and whether the wife is pregnant.

(E) The grounds for dissolution of the marriage.

(F) The relief sought.

(G) If a guardian of an incapacitated person is filing the petition for dissolution of marriage on behalf of the incapacitated person, the name and address of the guardian.

(H) Whether either party is a lifetime sex or violent offender.

(b) If a guardian of an incapacitated person files a petition for dissolution of a marriage on behalf of the incapacitated person, the guardian shall file with the petition a copy of the court order granting authority to petition for dissolution of marriage described in IC 29-3-9-12.2.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-4(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7. Amended by P.L.83-2014, SEC.13; P.L.244-2019, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-27-3-26 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-27-3-26
Cessation of operation upon revocation of license
Status: in_force

Sec. 26. A child caring institution shall cease operation when the license of the child caring institution is revoked.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-25-4-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-25-4-11
State case registry; contents
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. (a) The bureau shall maintain the state case registry required under 42 U.S.C. 654A(e).

(b) The state case registry must contain the following:

(1) Records of each case in which the bureau provides services.

(2) Each child support order established or modified after September 30, 1998.

(c) To carry out the bureau's responsibilities under this section, each circuit court clerk shall enter into an agreement with the bureau to provide all information necessary for the registry.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271.
Ind. Code § 31-14-13-6.1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-14-13-6.1
Delegation of parenting time during deployment; automatically terminates upon return
Status: in_force

Sec. 6.1. (a) Upon the motion of a parent who has received military deployment orders, the court may delegate the parent's parenting time, or a part of the parent's parenting time, during the time the parent is deployed to a person who has a close and substantial relationship with the parent's child if the court finds that delegating the parent's parenting time is in the best interests of the child.

(b) If a court delegates parenting time under subsection (a), the order delegating parenting time automatically terminates after the parent returns from deployment.

(c) A court may terminate an order delegating parenting time if the court determines that the delegated parenting time is no longer in the best interests of the child.

As added by P.L.55-2012, SEC.1.
Ind. Code § 31-25-2-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-25-2-4
Family case manager caseload reports
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. One (1) time every twelve (12) months, the department shall submit a report to the budget committee and to the legislative council that provides data and statistical information regarding caseloads of family case managers. The report made to the legislative council must be in an electronic format under IC 5-14-6.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271. Amended by P.L.131-2009, SEC.26.
Ind. Code § 31-34-23-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 23 / Section 31-34-23-7
Change in out-of-home placement; consideration of separation of siblings
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. If a child is placed under a dispositional decree in an out-of-home placement in a location in which a sibling of the child resides, a court shall, in considering a motion requesting a change in the child's placement, consider whether separating the child from the child's sibling is in the child's best interest.

As added by P.L.65-2023, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-12-1-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 12 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-12-1-4
Jurisdiction; supplemental powers
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) Whenever a domestic relations court is established under this chapter, the domestic relations court has jurisdiction over all proceedings in the following causes of action:

(1) Dissolution of marriage.

(2) Separation.

(3) Annulment.

(4) Child support.

(5) Paternity.

(b) A domestic relations court has jurisdiction that other courts in Indiana have over the causes of action listed in subsection (a). A domestic relations court may dispose of the causes of action listed in subsection (a) in the manner provided by statute for those causes of action. However, this chapter grants supplemental powers to domestic relations courts to aid the court in determining the difference between the parties and in protecting the welfare and rights of the child or children involved.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-23-10 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.4. Amended by P.L.197-1997, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-39-4-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-39-4-1
Application of chapter
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. This chapter applies to all law enforcement records involving allegations that a child is a delinquent child or a child in need of services.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-8-1.2(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.22.
Ind. Code § 31-35-1-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-35-1-10
Determination
Status: in_force

Sec. 10. (a) If:

(1) the court determines that the allegations in the petition described in section 4 of this chapter are true; and

(2) the other requirements of this article are met;

the court shall terminate the parent-child relationship.

(b) Except as provided in section 11 of this chapter, if the requirements of subsection (a)(1) or (a)(2) are not met, the court shall dismiss the petition.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-5-2(f).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-19-9-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-19-9-10
Parent's crime against child or child's sibling; effect on consent requirement
Status: in_force

Sec. 10. A court shall determine that consent to adoption is not required from a parent if:

(1) the parent is convicted of and incarcerated at the time of the filing of a petition for adoption for:

(A) murder (IC 35-42-1-1);

(B) causing suicide (IC 35-42-1-2);

(C) voluntary manslaughter (IC 35-42-1-3);

(D) rape (IC 35-42-4-1);

(E) criminal deviate conduct (IC 35-42-4-2) (before its repeal);

(F) child molesting (IC 35-42-4-3) as a:

(i) Class A or Class B felony, for a crime committed before July 1, 2014; or

(ii) Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, or Level 4 felony, for a crime committed after June 30, 2014;

(G) incest (IC 35-46-1-3) as a:

(i) Class B felony, for a crime committed before July 1, 2014; or

(ii) Level 4 felony, for a crime committed after June 30, 2014;

(H) neglect of a dependent (IC 35-46-1-4) as a:

(i) Class B felony, for a crime committed before July 1, 2014; or

(ii) Level 1 or Level 3 felony, for a crime committed after June 30, 2014;

(I) battery (IC 35-42-2-1) of a child as a:

(i) Class C felony, for a crime committed before July 1, 2014; or

(ii) Level 5 felony, for a crime committed after June 30, 2014;

(J) battery (IC 35-42-2-1) as a:

(i) Class A or Class B felony, for a crime committed before July 1, 2014; or

(ii) Level 2, Level 3, or Level 4 felony, for a crime committed after June 30, 2014;

(K) domestic battery (IC 35-42-2-1.3) as a Level 5, Level 4, Level 3, or Level 2 felony; or

(L) aggravated battery (IC 35-42-2-1.5) as a Level 3 or Level 1 felony;

(2) the child or the child's sibling, half-blood sibling, or step-sibling of the parent's current marriage is the victim of the offense; and

(3) after notice to the parent and a hearing, the court determines that dispensing with the parent's consent to adoption is in the child's best interests.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-6(m).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.222-2001, SEC.1; P.L.158-2013, SEC.310; P.L.214-2013, SEC.23; P.L.168-2014, SEC.38; P.L.65-2016, SEC.13; P.L.210-2019, SEC.4; P.L.142-2020, SEC.37.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-19-25-12
Errors in execution of forms
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. The state registrar may contact an individual who submits a request form or contact preference form that is incorrectly or incompletely executed to inform the individual regarding the error in the execution of the form.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-4.5-7.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.191-2011, SEC.46; P.L.3-2016, SEC.22.
Ind. Code § 31-19-17-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 17 / Section 31-19-17-4
Summary of social, medical, psychological, and educational records of child
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. The person, licensed child placing agency, or local office shall provide:

(1) the prospective adoptive parent or the adoptive parent; and

(2) upon request, an adoptee who:

(A) is at least twenty-one (21) years of age; and

(B) provides proof of identification;

with a summary of other existing social, medical, psychological, and educational records concerning the child of which the person, agency, or local office has knowledge but does not have possession. If requested by a prospective adoptive parent, an adoptive parent, or an adoptee, the person, agency, or local office shall attempt to provide the prospective adoptive parent, the adoptive parent, or the adoptee with a copy of any social, medical, psychological, or educational record that is not in the possession of the person, agency, or local office, after identifying information has been excluded.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.197-1997, SEC.24; P.L.100-2005, SEC.4; P.L.1-2006, SEC.498; P.L.131-2009, SEC.24; P.L.162-2011, SEC.19; P.L.128-2012, SEC.61.
Ind. Code § 31-34-12-4.6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-34-12-4.6
Circumstances creating rebuttable presumption that child is in need of services
Status: in_force

Sec. 4.6. (a) There is a rebuttable presumption that a child is a child in need of services if the court finds that the child lives in the same household as an adult who is subject to an order requiring the adult to participate in a program of care, treatment, or rehabilitation under IC 31-34-20-3.

(b) There is a rebuttable presumption that a child is a child in need of services if the court finds that the child's parent, guardian, or custodian willfully or knowingly:

(1) exposed the child to the illegal manufacture or distribution of a legend drug or controlled substance; or

(2) exposed the child to:

(A) methamphetamine;

(B) fentanyl; or

(C) a fentanyl containing substance (as defined by IC 35-48-1.1-19);

for which the parent, guardian, or custodian did not have a valid prescription.

As added by P.L.179-2025, SEC.15. Amended by P.L.23-2026, SEC.266.
Ind. Code § 31-19-29-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 29 / Section 31-19-29-3
Mandatory provisions
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. A compact entered into pursuant to the authority conferred by this chapter shall have the following content:

(1) A provision making it available for joinder by all states.

(2) A provision or provisions for withdrawal from the compact upon written notice to the parties, but with a period of one (1) year between the date of the notice and the effective date of the withdrawal.

(3) A requirement that the protections afforded by or pursuant to the compact continue in force for the duration of the adoption assistance and be applicable to all children and their adoptive parents who on the effective date of the withdrawal are receiving adoption assistance from a party state other than the one in which they are resident and have their principal place of abode.

(4) A requirement that each instance of adoption assistance to which the compact applies be covered by an adoption assistance agreement in writing between the adoptive parents and the state child welfare agency of the state which undertakes to provide the adoption assistance, and further, that any such agreement be expressly for the benefit of the adopted child and enforceable by the adoptive parents, and the state agency providing the adoption assistance.

(5) Such other provisions as may be appropriate to implement the proper administration of the compact.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-5-3.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-34-22-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 22 / Section 31-34-22-3
Admissibility of reports and factual summaries of reports
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) Any report may be admitted into evidence to the extent that the report contains evidence of probative value even if the evidence would otherwise be excluded.

(b) If a report contains information that should not be released to the child or the child's parent, guardian, custodian, or any other person who is entitled to receive a report under section 2 of this chapter, a factual summary of the report may be admitted.

(c) The following shall be given a fair opportunity to controvert any part of the report admitted into evidence:

(1) The child.

(2) The child's parent, guardian, or custodian.

(3) The person representing the interests of the state.

(4) Any other person who is entitled to receive a report under section 2 of this chapter.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.138-2007, SEC.77.
Ind. Code § 31-39-2-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-39-2-12
Parties to criminal or juvenile delinquency proceedings
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. (a) The juvenile court shall grant any party to a criminal or juvenile delinquency proceeding access to a person's legal records if the information may be used:

(1) to impeach the person as a witness; or

(2) to discredit the person's reputation if the person places reputation in issue.

(b) The information described in subsection (a) may only be used in criminal or juvenile delinquency proceedings in accordance with the law of evidence.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.22.
Ind. Code § 31-34-8-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-34-8-6
Duration of program; extension
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. A program of informal adjustment may not exceed six (6) months, except by approval of the juvenile court. The juvenile court may extend a program of informal adjustment an additional three (3) months.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.146-2008, SEC.586.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-250 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-250
"United States central authority"
Status: in_force

Sec. 250. "United States 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 § 31-27-5-23 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-27-5-23
Repealed
Status: repealed

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Repealed by P.L.146-2006, SEC.60.
Ind. Code § 31-16-16-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 16 / Section 31-16-16-5
Recognition and enforcement of judgments
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. The courts shall recognize and enforce:

(1) judgments created under section 2 of this chapter (or IC 31-2-11-8 before its repeal); and

(2) judgments for delinquent support payments that are created under the laws of another state.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-2-11-11.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.3-2008, SEC.235.
Ind. Code § 31-34-7-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-34-7-3
Decision whether to request authorization to file petition
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. The person representing the interests of the state and receiving the preliminary inquiry and recommendations shall decide whether to request authorization to file a petition. This decision is final only as to the office of the person making the decision.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-8(d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17.
Ind. Code § 31-35-1-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-35-1-6
Consent; written denial of paternity or consent to termination of relationship before birth of child bars challenge to adoptions or termination of parental rights
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. (a) Except as provided in subsection (c), the parents must give their consent in open court unless the court makes findings of fact upon the record that:

(1) the parents gave their consent in writing before a person authorized by law to take acknowledgments; and

(2) the parents were:

(A) advised in accordance with section 12 of this chapter; and

(B) advised that if they choose to appear in open court, the only issue before the court is whether their consent was voluntary.

(b) If:

(1) the court finds the conditions under subsection (a)(1) and (a)(2) have been met; and

(2) a parent appears in open court;

a court may consider only the issue of whether the parent's consent was voluntary.

(c) The consent of a parent to the termination of the parent-child relationship under this chapter is not required if:

(1) consent to the termination of the parent-child relationship is implied under section 4.5 of this chapter, if the parent is the putative father;

(2) the parent's consent to the adoption of the child would not be required under:

(A) IC 31-19-9-8;

(B) IC 31-19-9-9; or

(C) IC 31-19-9-10;

(3) the child's biological father denies paternity of the child before or after the birth of the child if the denial of paternity:

(A) is in writing;

(B) is signed by the child's father in the presence of a notary public; and

(C) contains an acknowledgment that:

(i) the denial of paternity is irrevocable; and

(ii) the child's father will not receive notice of adoption or termination of parent-child relationship proceedings; or

(4) the child's biological father consents to the termination of the parent-child relationship before the birth of the child if the consent:

(A) is in writing;

(B) is signed by the child's father in the presence of a notary public; and

(C) contains an acknowledgment that:

(i) the consent to the termination of the parent-child relationship is irrevocable; and

(ii) the child's father will not receive notice of adoption or termination of parent-child relationship proceedings.

A child's father who denies paternity of the child under subdivision (3) or consents to the termination of the parent-child relationship under subdivision (4) may not challenge or contest the child's adoption or termination of the parent-child relationship.

(d) A child's mother may not consent to the termination of the parent-child relationship before the birth of the child.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-5-2(c) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.18. Amended by P.L.200-1999, SEC.27; P.L.130-2005, SEC.12; P.L.146-2007, SEC.14; P.L.58-2009, SEC.31.
Ind. Code § 31-27-3-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-27-3-4
Child caring institution established by county; operation
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) A county may establish a child caring institution. The child caring institution may be operated by:

(1) the county; or

(2) a public or private agency under contract with the county;

and must be operated under the rules adopted by the director under this article.

(b) This section does not affect the following:

(1) IC 31-31-1-1 or IC 31-40, requiring the county fiscal body to appropriate sufficient money to pay for services ordered by the juvenile court.

(2) IC 31-31-8, authorizing the juvenile court to establish detention and shelter care facilities.

(3) IC 12-13-5 and IC 12-19-1, requiring the division of family resources, the office, and the county departments to provide care and treatment for delinquent children and children in need of services.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-27-4-30 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-27-4-30
Notice
Status: in_force

Sec. 30. (a) After the license of a foster family home is revoked, the department shall notify in writing each person responsible for each child in care, to ensure that the children are removed from the foster family home.

(b) The written notice shall be sent to the last known address of the person responsible for the child in care and must state that the license of the foster family home has been revoked.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.146-2006, SEC.33.
Ind. Code § 31-25-4-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-25-4-8
Additional duties of bureau
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. In addition to the duties imposed by section 7 of this chapter, the bureau shall do the following:

(1) Notify the department of workforce development of the amounts to be deducted from an individual's unemployment compensation, not to exceed the individual's weekly benefit amount of unemployment compensation.

(2) Reimburse the department of workforce development for the administrative costs incurred by the department under IC 22-4-39.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271. Amended by P.L.150-2018, SEC.17.
Ind. Code § 31-17-2.2-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 2.2 / Section 31-17-2.2-3
Notice; information requirements
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Except as provided in section 4 of this chapter, an individual required to file a notice under section 1 of this chapter must:

(1) file and serve the notice on each nonrelocating individual who is a party to the action in accordance with the Indiana Rules of Trial Procedure not later than thirty (30) days before the date of the intended relocation or not more than fourteen (14) days after the relocating individual becomes aware of the relocation, whichever is sooner;

(2) send the notice to any nonrelocating individual who is not a party to the action by registered or certified mail not later than thirty (30) days before the date of the intended relocation or not more than fourteen (14) days after the relocating individual becomes aware of the relocation, whichever is sooner; and

(3) provide the following information in the notice:

(A) The intended new residence, including the:

(i) address; and

(ii) mailing address of the relocating individual, if the mailing address is different than the address under item (i).

(B) All telephone numbers for the relocating individual.

(C) The date that the relocating individual intends to move.

(D) A brief statement of the specific reasons for the proposed relocation of the child.

(E) A statement that the relocating individual either does or does not believe that a revision of parenting time or grandparent visitation is necessary.

(F) A statement that a nonrelocating parent must file a response regarding the relocation of the child with the court not later than twenty (20) days after service of the notice.

(G) The following statements:

(i) A statement that a party may file a petition requesting an order to prevent the temporary or permanent relocation of a child.

(ii) A statement that a nonrelocating individual may file a petition to modify a custody order, parenting time order, grandparent visitation order, or child support order.

(H) A statement that all existing orders for custody, parenting time, grandparent visitation, and child support remain in effect until modified by the court.

As added by P.L.50-2006, SEC.7. Amended by P.L.1-2007, SEC.194; P.L.186-2019, SEC.12.
Ind. Code § 31-14-21-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-14-21-6
Failure to provide notice; intervention by adoptive parents
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. If:

(1) a putative father fails to provide notice under section 3 or 4 of this chapter; and

(2) the prospective adoptive parents file a motion to intervene;

the court with jurisdiction over the paternity action shall allow the prospective adoptive parents to intervene in the paternity action under Rule 24 of the Indiana Rules of Trial Procedure as described in section 8 of this chapter.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-2.1(f).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-12-2-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 12 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-12-2-12
Incorporation of records and property of marriage counseling service into bureau's service
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. In a circuit or county that has a marriage counseling service paid for by private money and supervised by a court, the domestic relations counseling bureau may receive all records and property of the existing service and incorporate the records and property into the bureau's service.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-24-9 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-37-17-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 17 / Section 31-37-17-8
Exchange of information
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. Unless prohibited by federal law, a probation department and:

(1) the division of family resources;

(2) a local office; and

(3) the department of child services;

may exchange information for use in preparing a report under this chapter.

As added by P.L.131-2009, SEC.69. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.174.
Ind. Code § 31-34-20-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 20 / Section 31-34-20-7
Provision of information by department of child services
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. If the department receives information, including positive results of a drug or alcohol screen, that indicates that a parent, guardian, or custodian may have violated a dispositional order of the court, the department shall provide the information to the court to be made part of the court record in the child in need of services proceeding.

As added by P.L.105-2018, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-16-12-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-16-12-11
Payment of arrearage; stay of order to licensing authority
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. Notwithstanding section 7, 8, 9, or 10 of this chapter, the court may stay the issuance of an order under section 7, 8, 9, or 10 of this chapter (or IC 31-1-11.5-13(j), IC 31-1-11.5-13(k), IC 31-1-11.5-13(l), or IC 31-1-11.5-13(m) before the repeal of IC 31-1-11.5-13) if:

(1) the person pays the child support arrearage in full; or

(2) an income withholding order under IC 31-16-15 (or IC 31-2-10 before its repeal) is implemented and a payment plan to pay the arrearage is established.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-13(n).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.103-2007, SEC.21.
Ind. Code § 31-19-10-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-19-10-4
Limitation on withdrawing consent
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. A consent to adoption may be withdrawn only as provided in this chapter and may not be withdrawn after the entry of the adoption decree.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-6(j) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.58-2009, SEC.23.
Ind. Code § 31-13-1-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 13 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-13-1-2
Bigamous marriages
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. If:

(1) a marriage is void because either of the parties to the marriage has a living husband or wife; and

(2) either of the parties to the marriage did not reasonably believe that either of the parties had a living husband or wife;

the children of the marriage shall be treated as if the children are children of a marriage that is not void if the children were conceived before the discovery that a party to the marriage had a living husband or wife.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-8-2.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-16-12.5-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 12.5 / Section 31-16-12.5-6
Final order; deadline
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. (a) The court shall issue a final order for a state income tax refund setoff following a hearing under this chapter if the court determines by clear and convincing evidence that the obligor named in the petition:

(1) is at least one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500) in arrears on child support payments; and

(2) has intentionally violated the terms of the most recent child support order applying to the obligor.

(b) The final order must include the amount of child support arrearage that the department of state revenue shall withhold from the obligor's state income tax refund and the obligor's Social Security number.

(c) In order for the setoff to take effect with respect to a state income tax refund, the final order of the court must be received by the department of state revenue before November 1 of the taxable year for which the tax refund is payable.

As added by P.L.27-2004, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-25-4-21 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-25-4-21
Confidential information; safeguards; necessary disclosures
Status: in_force

Sec. 21. (a) The bureau shall observe all possible safeguards for information obtained by the bureau with the minimum standard for the safeguards to be the federal regulations governing the safeguarding of information under this program.

(b) The bureau or the prosecuting attorney may not disclose information obtained through the parent locator service, except to the extent necessary to fulfill a duty under this chapter.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-197 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-197
"Reason to believe"
Status: in_force

Sec. 197. "Reason to believe", for purposes of IC 31-33, means evidence that, if presented to individuals of similar background and training, would cause the individuals to believe that a child was abused or neglected.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-16-6.4-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 6.4 / Section 31-16-6.4-2
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.2.
Ind. Code § 31-14-6-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-14-6-1
Blood or genetic testing
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. Upon the motion of any party, the court shall order all of the parties to a paternity action to undergo blood or genetic testing. A qualified expert approved by the court shall perform the tests.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-8(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-10-3.5-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 10 / Chapter 3.5 / Section 31-10-3.5-3
Antidiscrimination exception for compelling governmental interest
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. 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.43-2026, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-40-6-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 40 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-40-6-4
Collaborative service planning; application solicitation process; informational and educational sessions; review of applications
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) A grantee participating in any program described in this chapter shall engage in collaborative service planning with the grantee's local or regional justice reinvestment advisory council (as described in IC 33-38-9.5-4), another local collaborative body that includes stakeholders across the juvenile justice system, or one (1) or more juvenile justice system entities affected by grant funded activities. Collaborative service planning shall:

(1) inform grant solicitation, with support for rural communities as a required funding priority;

(2) inform how funding and programming could be used more effectively; and

(3) consider efficiency that may be achieved by implementing the programming on a regional basis.

(b) The Indiana criminal justice institute shall coordinate with the oversight committee, workgroup, and office to develop a statewide solicitation process for applications for the grants from the fund and shall conduct outreach activities to inform all potential applicants of the grant opportunities available under this chapter.

(c) The Indiana criminal justice institute, in coordination with the commission, oversight committee, workgroup, and office, shall conduct informational and educational sessions for potential and actual applicants, including opportunities for questions and clarification.

(d) Subject to the Indiana criminal justice institute solicitation process developed under subsection (b), the oversight committee, or a subgroup of the oversight committee, shall review applications for grants under this chapter and make recommendations to the board of trustees of the Indiana criminal justice institute regarding funding decisions. The review of applications should be done in consultation with a representative from the department of child services, the department of correction, the division of mental health and addiction, the Indiana criminal justice institute, the office, and experienced practitioners in the mental and behavioral health profession.

As added by P.L.101-2022, SEC.32. Amended by P.L.201-2023, SEC.251; P.L.122-2025, SEC.12.
Ind. Code § 31-14-16-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 16 / Section 31-14-16-6
Repealed
Status: repealed

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Repealed by P.L.133-2002, SEC.69.
Ind. Code § 31-27-4-35 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-27-4-35
Notification of sexual contact or sex crime
Status: in_force

Sec. 35. (a) A licensee must immediately contact the department if:

(1) a foster child less than sixteen (16) years of age, while living in a foster home, engages in or is the victim of sexual contact (as defined in IC 25-1-9-3.5);

(2) a foster child, while living in a foster home, is:

(A) charged with or adjudicated as having committed an act that would be a crime under IC 35-42-4 if committed by an adult;

(B) charged with or convicted of an offense under IC 35-42-4; or

(C) the victim of an offense under IC 35-42-4; or

(3) the licensee learns that a foster child has, before placement with the licensee, engaged in or been the victim of an act described in subdivision (1) or (2).

(b) The information provided to the department under subsection (a) must include:

(1) the name of the child;

(2) the date of the occurrence of the act if it can be determined;

(3) a description of the act;

(4) the name of the responding law enforcement agency if a law enforcement agency is contacted; and

(5) any other information the licensee determines is relevant.

(c) Notwithstanding any other law, the department shall provide information described in subsection (b)(1) through (b)(4), whether received from a licensee or another reliable source, to:

(1) a prospective licensee before the placement of the foster child with that licensee; and

(2) each licensee with whom the foster child has previously been placed.

(d) The notification requirements of subsection (c) apply to a foster child who has:

(1) engaged in sexual contact (as defined in IC 25-1-9-3.5) if the foster child is less than sixteen (16) years of age;

(2) been charged with or adjudicated as having committed an act that would be a crime under IC 35-42-4 if committed by an adult; or

(3) been charged with or convicted of an offense under IC 35-42-4.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-11-0.1-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 0.1 / Section 31-11-0.1-1
"Repealed statutes"
Status: repealed

Sec. 1. As used in this chapter, "repealed statutes" refer to the following statutes repealed by P.L.180-1986:

(1) IC 16-1-37-7.

(2) IC 31-1-1.

(3) IC 31-1-2.

(4) IC 31-1-3.

(5) IC 31-1-4.

(6) IC 31-1-5.

(7) IC 31-1-6.

(8) IC 31-1-7.

(9) IC 31-1-8.

(10) IC 31-1-9.

As added by P.L.220-2011, SEC.488.
Ind. Code § 31-15-4-13 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-15-4-13
Provisional order; rights not prejudiced
Status: in_force

Sec. 13. The issuance of a provisional order is without prejudice to the rights of the parties or the child as adjudicated at the final hearing in the proceeding.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-7(g) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-14-11-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-14-11-5
Date for support obligation to begin
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. The support order:

(1) may include the period dating from the birth of the child; and

(2) must include the period dating from the filing of the paternity action.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-19-2.5-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 2.5 / Section 31-19-2.5-1
Application
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. This chapter applies to notice given to a:

(1) putative father under IC 31-19-4; and

(2) person under IC 31-19-4.5.

As added by P.L.61-2003, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-21-5-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-21-5-5
Notice and opportunity to be heard; intervention and joinder
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. (a) Before a child custody determination is made under this article, notice and an opportunity to be heard in accordance with the standards of IC 31-21-3-3 must be given to the following persons:

(1) Persons entitled to notice under Indiana law as in child custody proceedings between residents of Indiana.

(2) A parent whose parental rights have not been previously terminated.

(3) Any person having physical custody of the child.

(b) This article does not govern the enforceability of a child custody determination made without notice or an opportunity to be heard.

(c) The obligation to join a party and the right to intervene as a party in a child custody proceeding under this article are governed by Indiana law in the same manner as in child custody proceedings between Indiana residents.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-37-4-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-37-4-3
Law enforcement notification to schools of student arrests
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) This section applies if a child is arrested or taken into custody for allegedly committing an act that would be any of the following crimes if committed by an adult:

(1) Murder (IC 35-42-1-1).

(2) Attempted murder (IC 35-41-5-1).

(3) Voluntary manslaughter (IC 35-42-1-3).

(4) Involuntary manslaughter (IC 35-42-1-4).

(5) Reckless homicide (IC 35-42-1-5).

(6) Aggravated battery (IC 35-42-2-1.5).

(7) Battery (IC 35-42-2-1).

(8) Kidnapping (IC 35-42-3-2).

(9) A sex crime listed in IC 35-42-4-1 through IC 35-42-4-8.

(10) Sexual misconduct with a minor (IC 35-42-4-9).

(11) Incest (IC 35-46-1-3).

(12) Robbery as a Level 2 felony or a Level 3 felony (IC 35-42-5-1).

(13) Burglary as a Level 1 felony, Level 2 felony, Level 3 felony, or Level 4 felony (IC 35-43-2-1).

(14) Assisting a criminal as a Level 5 felony (IC 35-44.1-2-5).

(15) Escape (IC 35-44.1-3-4) as a Level 4 felony or Level 5 felony.

(16) Trafficking with an inmate as a Level 5 felony (IC 35-44.1-3-5).

(17) Causing death or catastrophic injury when operating a vehicle (IC 9-30-5-5).

(18) Criminal confinement (IC 35-42-3-3) as a Level 2 or Level 3 felony.

(19) Arson (IC 35-43-1-1) as a Level 2 felony, Level 3 felony, or Level 4 felony.

(20) Possession, use, or manufacture of a weapon of mass destruction (IC 35-47-12-1) (before its repeal).

(21) Terroristic mischief (IC 35-47-12-3) as a Level 2 or Level 3 felony (before its repeal).

(22) Hijacking or disrupting an aircraft (IC 35-47-6-1.6).

(23) A violation of IC 35-47.5 (controlled explosives) as a Level 2 felony, Level 3 felony, or Level 4 felony.

(24) A controlled substances offense under IC 35-48.

(25) A criminal organization offense under IC 35-45-9.

(26) Domestic battery (IC 35-42-2-1.3).

(27) A felony terrorist offense (as defined in IC 35-50-2-18).

(b) If a child is taken into custody under this chapter for a crime or act listed in subsection (a) or a situation to which IC 12-26-5-1 applies, the law enforcement agency that employs the law enforcement officer who takes the child into custody shall notify the chief administrative officer of the primary or secondary school, including a public or nonpublic school, in which the child is enrolled or, if the child is enrolled in a public school, the superintendent of the school district in which the child is enrolled:

(1) that the child was taken into custody; and

(2) of the reason why the child was taken into custody.

(c) The notification under subsection (b) must occur within forty-eight (48) hours after the child is taken into custody.

(d) A law enforcement agency may not disclose information that is confidential under state or federal law to a school or school district under this section.

(e) A law enforcement agency shall include in its training for law enforcement officers training concerning the notification requirements under subsection (b).

As added by P.L.67-2007, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.3-2008, SEC.240; P.L.125-2012, SEC.404; P.L.126-2012, SEC.42; P.L.172-2013, SEC.8; P.L.158-2013, SEC.326; P.L.168-2014, SEC.44; P.L.25-2016, SEC.12; P.L.65-2016, SEC.18; P.L.66-2019, SEC.3; P.L.184-2019, SEC.9; P.L.211-2019, SEC.41; P.L.205-2023, SEC.26.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25-15 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-19-25-15
Consent not required
Status: in_force

Sec. 15. Except as provided in section 21 of this chapter, the consent of an adoptee is not required for the release of identifying information under this chapter if the individual requesting the release of identifying information under section 2 of this chapter submits:

(1) a death certificate;

(2) an obituary;

(3) records from the STEVE system; or

(4) any other form of evidence approved by the Indiana department of health;

indicating that the adoptee is deceased, to the person releasing the identifying information.

As added by P.L.191-2011, SEC.47. Amended by P.L.190-2017, SEC.9; P.L.56-2023, SEC.292.
Ind. Code § 31-15-6-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-15-6-2
Persons ineligible for appointment
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. A court may not appoint a party to the proceedings, the party's employee, or the party's representative as the:

(1) guardian ad litem;

(2) court appointed special advocate;

(3) guardian ad litem program; or

(4) court appointed special advocate program;

for a child who is involved in the proceedings.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-32-3-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-32-3-6
Representation of best interests of child
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. A guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate shall represent and protect the best interests of the child.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-3-4(b) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-19-28-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 28 / Section 31-19-28-4
Jurisdiction
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. The court where an adoption proceeding is pending has jurisdiction over a person if the person's consent to the adoption taken outside Indiana includes a provision that the person giving the consent to adoption submits to the jurisdiction of the Indiana courts.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-10(d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-34-3-4.7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-34-3-4.7
Notice to the child's school
Status: in_force

Sec. 4.7. If a child who is a student attending kindergarten through grade 12 is taken into custody under IC 31-34-2, the department shall, not later than seventy-two (72) hours after the child is taken into custody, provide written or verbal notice to the individual designated as the point of contact for the school that the child attends that the child has been removed from the child's home.

As added by P.L.120-2018, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-16-17-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 17 / Section 31-16-17-8
Appeal and review
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. (a) If:

(1) the finding of the court; or

(2) the verdict of the jury;

is for or against the defendant, each party aggrieved by the finding or verdict may file a motion for a new trial and other proceedings that are proper in other civil actions.

(b) Appeals may be taken as in other civil actions.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-2-9-4.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-40-6-3.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 40 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-40-6-3.5
Use of funds for grant management; annual report
Status: in_force

Sec. 3.5. (a) The Indiana criminal justice institute may use available funds to strengthen the Indiana criminal justice institute's grant management capacity to:

(1) serve as an efficient pass through to grantees;

(2) provide quality assurance and technical assistance to grantees; and

(3) support and coordinate data collection.

(b) Not later than December 1 of each year, the Indiana criminal justice institute shall:

(1) prepare an annual report that details the performance measures collected and reported under IC 2-5-36-9.3(b)(4), including an analysis of the performance measures by race, ethnicity, gender, and other demographic factors; and

(2) submit the report to:

(A) the governor;

(B) the chief justice of Indiana;

(C) the legislative council; and

(D) the oversight committee.

The report submitted to the legislative council must be in an electronic format under IC 5-14-6.

As added by P.L.122-2025, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-37-12-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-37-12-3
Representation by counsel; waiver; appointment
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) Before complying with the other requirements of this section, the juvenile court shall first determine whether counsel has been:

(1) waived under IC 31-32-5; or

(2) previously obtained.

(b) If counsel has not been waived or previously obtained, the juvenile court shall appoint counsel under IC 31-32-4.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-13(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-17-3.5-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 3.5 / Section 31-17-3.5-4
Forfeiture; excess proceeds
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. Upon forfeiture, the proceeds of the security, a bond, or other guarantee ordered to secure enforcement of a custody order or parenting time order under this article that are not applied to the expenses described in section 3 of this chapter must be applied toward:

(1) the child's postsecondary education; or

(2) the support and maintenance of the child.

As added by P.L.171-2001, SEC.10. Amended by P.L.68-2005, SEC.44; P.L.2-2007, SEC.363.
Ind. Code § 31-12-1-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 12 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-12-1-7
Forms of action; caption
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. The forms of action for:

(1) dissolution of marriage;

(2) annulment;

(3) separation;

(4) child support; or

(5) paternity;

that are available to the parties under statute are the forms of action in any domestic relations court established under this chapter. However, the caption of the cause must show that the cause is filed in the Domestic Relations Court of _____________ County.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-23-11 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.4. Amended by P.L.197-1997, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-26-4-2.3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-26-4-2.3
Treatment of references to Indiana children's trust fund board; transfer of property to board
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. 2.3. (a) After June 30, 2003, any reference in a statute or rule referring to the Indiana children's trust fund board is considered a reference to the board.

(b) On July 1, 2003, the board becomes the owner of all the personal property and assets and assumes the obligations and liabilities of the Indiana children's trust fund board, as it existed before July 1, 2003.

As added by P.L.220-2011, SEC.506.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-108 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-108
"Foster family home"
Status: in_force

Sec. 108. "Foster family home", for purposes of IC 31-27 and IC 31-34-23-6, means a place where an individual resides and provides care and supervision on a twenty-four (24) hour basis to a child, as defined in section 32(d) of this chapter, who is receiving care and supervision under a juvenile court order or for purposes of placement.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-2-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-18.5-2-2
Duration of personal jurisdiction
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. Personal jurisdiction acquired by an Indiana tribunal in a proceeding under this article or other Indiana law relating to a support order continues as long as an Indiana tribunal has continuing, exclusive jurisdiction to modify its order or continuing jurisdiction to enforce its order as provided by sections 5, 6, and 11 of this chapter.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-35-3-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-35-3-7
Request for hearing; commencement of hearing; dismissal of petition
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) The person filing the petition shall request that the court set the petition for a hearing.

(b) Whenever a hearing on the petition is requested under this chapter, the court shall commence the hearing not more than ninety (90) days after a petition is filed under this chapter.

(c) If a hearing is not held within the time set forth in subsection (b), upon filing a motion with the court by a party, the court shall dismiss the petition without prejudice.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-5-4.2(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.18. Amended by P.L.35-1998, SEC.24; P.L.48-2012, SEC.69.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-215 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-215
"Responding tribunal"
Status: in_force

Sec. 215. "Responding tribunal", 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 § 31-37-17-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 17 / Section 31-37-17-4
Recommendation on care, treatment, rehabilitation, or placement; risk assessment and needs assessment
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) If consistent with the safety and best interest of the child and the community, the probation officer preparing the report shall recommend care, treatment, rehabilitation, or placement that:

(1) is based on the results of a validated risk and needs assessment tool;

(2) is:

(A) in the least restrictive (most family like) and most appropriate setting available; and

(B) close to the parents' home, consistent with the best interest and special needs of the child;

(3) least interferes with family autonomy;

(4) is least disruptive of family life;

(5) imposes the least restraint on the freedom of the child and the child's parent, guardian, or custodian; and

(6) provides a reasonable opportunity for participation by the child's parent, guardian, or custodian.

(b) If the report recommends a placement or services for which the department will be responsible for payment under IC 31-40-1, the report must include a risk assessment and needs assessment for the child. The probation officer shall submit to the department a copy of the report and the financial report prepared by the probation officer.

(c) If the report does not include the:

(1) risk assessment and needs assessment required in subsection (b); or

(2) information required to be provided under section 1(a)(3) of this chapter;

the department shall file a notice with the office of judicial administration.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.55-1997, SEC.29; P.L.146-2008, SEC.642; P.L.48-2012, SEC.71; P.L.161-2018, SEC.41; P.L.101-2022, SEC.24.
Ind. Code § 31-34-8-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-34-8-1
Implementation of program; statement by court of reasons for denial; program considered approved in certain circumstances
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) After the preliminary inquiry and upon approval by the juvenile court, the intake officer may implement a program of informal adjustment if the officer has probable cause to believe that the child is a child in need of services.

(b) If the juvenile court denies a program of informal adjustment, the court shall state its reasons for the denial. The reasons may include that:

(1) the juvenile court finds no probable cause to believe that the child is a child in need of services; or

(2) the juvenile court finds that the coercive intervention of the juvenile court is required.

(c) If the juvenile court does not act to either:

(1) approve or deny a program of informal adjustment; or

(2) set a hearing date;

within ten (10) days of its submission to the juvenile court, the program of informal adjustment is considered approved.

(d) If:

(1) the juvenile court sets a hearing under subsection (c); and

(2) the hearing is not concluded and action taken to approve or deny the program of informal adjustment within thirty (30) days of the submission of the program to the juvenile court;

the program of informal adjustment is considered approved.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.146-2008, SEC.584.
Ind. Code § 31-14-13-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-14-13-7
Determination; factors considered
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. In making a determination, the court shall consider the factors listed under section 2 of this chapter.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-11(f).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-37-9-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-37-9-1
Informal adjustment; implementation of program
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. After the preliminary inquiry and upon approval by the juvenile court, the intake officer may implement a program of informal adjustment if the officer has probable cause to believe that the child is a delinquent child. Results of a risk screening tool shall be used to inform recommendations for the use of informal adjustment.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.146-2008, SEC.629; P.L.46-2016, SEC.17; P.L.101-2022, SEC.19.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-173 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-173
"Outside this state"
Status: in_force

Sec. 173. "Outside this 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 § 31-34-19-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-34-19-8
Provision of copies of dispositional report
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. The juvenile court shall send a copy of the dispositional report described in section 10 of this chapter to each person who receives placement or wardship of the child.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17.
Ind. Code § 31-34-15-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-34-15-7
Consult with child; selection of child representatives; adviser
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) For a child who is at least fourteen (14) years of age, the department shall consult with the child in the development of the child's case plan or transitional services plan. If the department determines that the child is unable to participate effectively in the development of a case plan or transitional services plan due to a physical, mental, emotional, or intellectual disability, the department may excuse the child from this requirement by documenting in the plan the reasons for the child's inability to participate in the development of the applicable plan. If the child refuses to participate in the development of the applicable plan for reasons other than a physical, mental, emotional, or intellectual disability, the department shall record the refusal and document efforts made to obtain the child's input or participation in the development of the applicable plan.

(b) The child may select not more than two (2) child representatives to represent the child in the development of the child's case plan or transitional services plan. A child representative selected under this section:

(1) must be:

(A) at least eighteen (18) years of age; and

(B) a member of the case planning team; and

(2) may not be a foster parent of or caseworker for the child.

(c) The child may select one (1) of the child representatives who is a member of the child's case planning team to also be the child's adviser and, as necessary, advocate, with respect to the application of the reasonable and prudent parent standard to the child.

(d) The department may reject an individual selected by a child to be a member of the case planning team at any time if the department has good cause to believe that the individual would not act in the best interests of the child.

As added by P.L.104-2015, SEC.38.
Ind. Code § 31-25-2-27 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-25-2-27
Expired
Status: repealed

As added by P.L.172-2022, SEC.5. Expired 1-1-2024 by P.L.172-2022, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-61 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-61
"Controlled substance"
Status: in_force

Sec. 61. "Controlled substance", for purposes of the juvenile law, has the meaning set forth in IC 35-48-1.1.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-25-2-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-25-2-7
Department duties
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) The department is responsible for the following:

(1) Providing child protection services under this article.

(2) Providing and administering child abuse and neglect prevention services.

(3) Providing and administering child services.

(4) Providing and administering family services.

(5) Providing family preservation services under IC 31-26-5.

(6) Regulating and licensing the following under IC 31-27:

(A) Child caring institutions.

(B) Foster family homes.

(C) Group homes.

(D) Child placing agencies.

(7) Administering the state's plan for the administration of Title IV-D of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.).

(8) Administering foster care services.

(9) Administering successful adulthood services (as described in 42 U.S.C. 677 et seq.).

(10) Administering adoption and guardianship services.

(11) Certifying and providing grants to the youth services bureaus under IC 31-26-1.

(12) Administering the project safe program.

(13) Paying for programs and services as provided under IC 31-40.

(14) Obtaining on an annual basis a consumer report, as defined in 42 U.S.C. 1681a(d), for each child at least fourteen (14) years of age who is in state foster care.

(b) This chapter does not authorize or require the department to:

(1) investigate or report on proceedings under IC 31-17-2 relating to a child who is not the subject of an open child in need of services case under IC 31-34; or

(2) otherwise monitor child custody or visitation in dissolution of marriage proceedings.

(c) This chapter does not authorize or require the department to:

(1) conduct home studies; or

(2) otherwise participate in guardianship proceedings under IC 29-3;

other than those over which the juvenile court has jurisdiction under IC 29-3-2-1(c) or IC 31-30-1-1(a)(10).

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271. Amended by P.L.146-2008, SEC.565; P.L.128-2012, SEC.87; P.L.104-2015, SEC.15; P.L.115-2023, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-21-6-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-21-6-8
Petition verification requirements
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. (a) A petition under this article must be verified. Certified copies of:

(1) the orders sought to be enforced; and

(2) an order confirming registration;

must be attached to the petition. A copy of a certified copy of an order may be attached instead of the original.

(b) A petition for enforcement of a child custody determination must state the following:

(1) Whether the court that issued the determination identified the jurisdictional basis it relied on in exercising jurisdiction and, if so, what the basis was.

(2) Whether the determination for which enforcement is sought has been vacated, stayed, or modified by a court whose decision must be enforced under this article and, if so, identify:

(A) the court;

(B) the case number; and

(C) the nature of the proceeding.

(3) Whether a proceeding has been commenced that may affect the current proceeding, including proceedings relating to:

(A) domestic violence;

(B) protective orders;

(C) termination of parental rights; and

(D) adoptions;

and, if so, identify the court, the case number, and the nature of the proceeding.

(4) The present physical address of the child and the respondent, if known.

(5) Whether relief in addition to the immediate physical custody of the child and attorney's fees is sought, including a request for assistance from law enforcement officials and, if so, the relief sought.

(6) If the child custody determination has been registered and confirmed under sections 4 and 5 of this chapter, the date and place of registration.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-81 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-81
"Direct request"
Status: in_force

Sec. 81. "Direct request", 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 § 31-19-16-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 16 / Section 31-19-16-3
Postadoption contact agreement
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. A postadoption contact agreement filed under section 2(4) of this chapter must contain the following provisions:

(1) An acknowledgment by the birth parents that the adoption is irrevocable, even if the adoptive parents do not abide by the postadoption contact agreement.

(2) An acknowledgment by the adoptive parents that the agreement grants the birth parents the right to seek to enforce the postadoption privileges set forth in the agreement.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.196-1997, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-39-5-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-39-5-1
Taking and filing
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) A law enforcement agency may take and file the fingerprints or photographs of a child if:

(1) the child is taken into custody for an act that would be a felony if committed by an adult; and

(2) the child was at least fourteen (14) years of age when the act was allegedly committed.

(b) A juvenile court may, by general order, limit fingerprinting and photographing of children to situations in which children are charged with specified offenses.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-8-1.5(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.22.
Ind. Code § 31-21-3-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-21-3-3
Notice for exercise of jurisdiction to a person outside Indiana
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) Notice required for the exercise of jurisdiction when a person is outside Indiana may be given in a manner prescribed by:

(1) Indiana law for service of process; or

(2) the law of the state in which the service is made.

Notice must be given in a manner reasonably calculated to give actual notice but may be by publication if other means are not effective.

(b) Proof of service may be made in the manner prescribed by:

(1) Indiana law; or

(2) the law of the state in which the service is made.

(c) Notice is not required for the exercise of jurisdiction with respect to a person who submits to the jurisdiction of the court.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-207.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-207.5
"Religious organization"
Status: in_force

Sec. 207.5. "Religious organization", for purposes of section 177 of this chapter, refers to any of the following:

(1) A house of worship, including a church, synagogue, shrine, mosque, or temple.

(2) A religious:

(A) group;

(B) corporation;

(C) association;

(D) school or educational institution;

(E) ministry;

(F) order;

(G) society; or

(H) entity, regardless of whether the entity is integrated or affiliated with a house of worship.

(3) Any officer, owner, employee, manager, religious leader, clergy, or minister of an entity described in this section.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-226 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-226
"Services or items"
Status: in_force

Sec. 226. "Services or items", for purposes of IC 31-36-3, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-36-3-1.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-33-3-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-33-3-1
Community child protection team established; members
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) A community child protection team is established in each county. The community child protection team is a countywide, multidisciplinary child protection team. The team must include the following thirteen (13) members who reside in, or provide services to residents of, the county in which the team is to be formed:

(1) The director of the local office that provides child welfare services in the county or the local office director's designee.

(2) Two (2) designees of the juvenile court judge.

(3) The prosecuting attorney or the prosecuting attorney's designee.

(4) The county sheriff or the sheriff's designee.

(5) Either:

(A) the president of the county executive in a county not containing a consolidated city or the president's designee; or

(B) the executive of a consolidated city in a county containing a consolidated city or the executive's designee.

(6) A director of a court appointed special advocate or guardian ad litem program or the director's designee in the county in which the team is to be formed.

(7) Either:

(A) a public school superintendent or the superintendent's designee; or

(B) a director of a local special education cooperative or the director's designee.

(8) Two (2) persons, each of whom is a physician or nurse, with experience in pediatrics or family practice.

(9) Two (2) residents of the county.

(10) The chief law enforcement officer of the largest law enforcement agency in the county (other than the county sheriff) or the chief law enforcement officer's designee.

(b) The director of the local office serving the county shall appoint, subject to the approval of the director of the department, the members of the team under subsection (a)(7), (a)(8), and (a)(9).

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-11-14(b), (c), (d) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.102; P.L.146-2008, SEC.574; P.L.148-2024, SEC.17.
Ind. Code § 31-34-23-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 23 / Section 31-34-23-1
Motion for modification
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. While the juvenile court retains jurisdiction under IC 31-30-2, the juvenile court may modify any dispositional decree:

(1) upon the juvenile court's own motion;

(2) upon the motion of:

(A) the child;

(B) the child's:

(i) parent;

(ii) guardian;

(iii) custodian;

(iv) court appointed special advocate; or

(v) guardian ad litem; or

(C) the attorney for the department; or

(3) upon the motion of any person providing services to the child or to the child's parent, guardian, or custodian under a decree of the court.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-16(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.129-2005, SEC.9; P.L.146-2008, SEC.611.
Ind. Code § 31-21-5-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-21-5-3
Modification of a child custody determination made in another state
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Except as provided in section 4 of this chapter, an Indiana court may not modify a child custody determination made by a court of another state unless an Indiana court has jurisdiction to make an initial determination under section 1(a)(1) or 1(a)(2) of this chapter and:

(1) the court of the other state determines that:

(A) it no longer has exclusive, continuing jurisdiction under section 2 of this chapter; or

(B) an Indiana court would be a more convenient forum under section 8 of this chapter; or

(2) an Indiana court or a court of the other state determines that:

(A) the child;

(B) the child's parents; and

(C) any person acting as a parent;

do not presently reside in the other state.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-33-8-14 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-33-8-14
Repealed
Status: repealed

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Repealed by P.L.138-2007, SEC.93.
Ind. Code § 31-33-26-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 26 / Section 31-33-26-2
Establishment and maintenance of child protection index
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. The department shall establish and maintain a centralized, computerized child protection index to organize and access data regarding substantiated reports of child abuse and neglect that the department receives from throughout Indiana under this article.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.67.
Ind. Code § 31-25-2-19 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-25-2-19
Adoption fees
Status: in_force

Sec. 19. (a) The department may charge the following adoption fees:

(1) An adoption placement fee that may not exceed the actual costs incurred by the department for medical expenses of children and mothers.

(2) A fee that does not exceed the time and travel costs incurred by the department for home study and investigation concerning a contemplated adoption.

(b) Fees charged under this section shall be deposited in the child trust clearance account established under IC 31-25-2-20.2. Money deposited under this subsection shall be expended by the department for the following purposes without further appropriation:

(1) The care of children whose adoption is contemplated.

(2) The improvement of adoption services provided by the department.

(c) The director may adopt rules governing the expenditure of money under this section.

(d) The department may reduce or waive charges authorized under this section in hardship cases or for other good cause after investigation. The department may adopt forms on which the written authorization is provided.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271. Amended by P.L.146-2008, SEC.566.
Ind. Code § 31-13-2-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 13 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-13-2-3
Child of common law marriage consummated before January 2, 1958
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. A child of a common law marriage that was consummated before January 2, 1958, is considered to be a child of a valid marriage.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-8-6.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-14-20-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 20 / Section 31-14-20-1
Duty to register
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) This section does not apply to a man whose paternity is established under this article (or IC 31-6-6.1 before its repeal) before the filing of a petition to adopt the man's child.

(b) A man who files or is a party to a paternity action under this article shall register with the putative father registry under IC 31-19-5 within the period provided under IC 31-19-5-12.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-2(d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-19-20-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 20 / Section 31-19-20-2
Request for additional medical history information
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) Whenever the state registrar receives an inquiry for medical history information from an adoptee or adoptive parent and the state registrar reasonably believes that the medical history information available under section 1 of this chapter is incomplete, the state registrar shall request further medical history information concerning the adoptee from:

(1) the hospital where the adoptee was born; and

(2) the:

(A) licensed child placing agency;

(B) local office; and

(C) attorney;

that arranged the adoptee's adoptive placement.

(b) A hospital, a licensed child placing agency, a local office, or an attorney that receives a request for medical information under subsection (a) shall release medical history information concerning the adoptee to the state registrar.

(c) The state registrar shall release any additional medical history information received under subsection (b) to the adoptee or adoptive parent.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-4-14(b), (c), (d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.197-1997, SEC.26; P.L.128-2012, SEC.65.
Ind. Code § 31-36-2-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 36 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-36-2-5
Arrest warrant issuance for persons abducting or unlawfully retaining child; reporting requirements
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. (a) If an arrest warrant is issued for a person who has allegedly abducted or unlawfully retained a missing child, the law enforcement agency issuing the warrant shall immediately enter all identifying information regarding the person into the National Crime Information Center's Wanted Person File.

(b) Upon entering the warrant information into the National Crime Information Center's Wanted Person File, the agency shall update the report in the National Crime Information Center's Missing Person File.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-13-9.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.19.
Ind. Code § 31-16-15-14 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-16-15-14
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-2-10-15(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Repealed by P.L.103-2007, SEC.51.
Ind. Code § 31-27-5-19 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-27-5-19
Notice of enforcement actions; informal meetings
Status: in_force

Sec. 19. Except as provided in section 29 of this chapter, 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.