Ind. Code § 31-19-25.5-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25.5 / Section 31-19-25.5-8
Unable to identify or locate pre-adoptive sibling or deceased cannot be identified or located; providing information of court proceeding to request release of adoption information; release of information prohibited
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. (a) The state registrar shall notify an adoptee who has submitted a request under section 2 of this chapter if:

(1) the state registrar is unable to identify or locate a pre-adoptive sibling; or

(2) a pre-adoptive sibling is deceased and had not submitted a request under section 2 of this chapter.

The state registrar shall provide information to the adoptee on requesting the release of adoption information under IC 31-19-24. However, the state registrar may not release any information that may identify the pre-adoptive sibling under this section.

(b) The state registrar shall notify a pre-adoptive sibling who has submitted a request under section 2 of this chapter if:

(1) the state registrar is unable to identify or locate an adoptee; or

(2) an adoptee is deceased and had not submitted a request under section 2 of this chapter.

The state registrar shall provide information to the pre-adoptive sibling on requesting the release of adoption information under IC 31-19-24. However, the state registrar may not release any information that may identify the adoptee under this section.

As added by P.L.191-2011, SEC.55.
Ind. Code § 31-26-6-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-26-6-1
"Plan"
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. As used in this chapter, "plan" includes a regional services strategic plan to achieve the purposes described in section 5 of this chapter and any implementation strategy, revision, addition, or update of the plan, as described in section 12(a) of this chapter.

As added by P.L.146-2008, SEC.571.
Ind. Code § 31-27-5-27 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-27-5-27
Notice
Status: in_force

Sec. 27. (a) After the license of a group 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 group home.

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known address of the person responsible for the child in care and shall state that the license of the group home has been revoked.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.146-2006, SEC.37.
Ind. Code § 31-19-24-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 24 / Section 31-19-24-5
Fee for cost of search
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. The confidential intermediary may charge a reasonable fee for the cost of making a search under section 4 of this chapter.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.196-1997, SEC.16.
Ind. Code § 31-33-26-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 26 / Section 31-33-26-8
Notification after index entry; notice to perpetrators; request for administrative hearing
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. (a) This section does not apply to substantiated reports if a court has determined that a child is a child in need of services based on:

(1) a report of child abuse or neglect that names the perpetrator as the individual who committed the child abuse or neglect; or

(2) facts presented to the court at a hearing in a child in need of services case commenced under IC 31-34 that are consistent with the facts and conclusions stated in the report, if the department approved the substantiated report after the court's determination.

(b) Not later than thirty (30) days after the department enters a substantiated child abuse or neglect report into the index, the department shall notify:

(1) the parent, guardian, or custodian of the child who is named in the report as the victim of the child abuse or neglect; and

(2) any person identified as the perpetrator, if other than the child's parent, guardian, or custodian;

that the department has entered the report into the index.

(c) The department shall state the following in a notice to the perpetrator of a substantiated report under subsection (b):

(1) The report has been classified as substantiated.

(2) The perpetrator may request that a substantiated report be amended or expunged at an administrative hearing if the perpetrator does not agree with the classification of the report unless a court is in the process of making a determination.

(3) The perpetrator's request for an administrative hearing to contest the classification of a substantiated report must be received by the department not more than thirty (30) days after the notice is served on the perpetrator as provided in IC 4-21.5-3-1(b). Time shall be computed as provided in IC 4-21.5-3-2.

(d) If the perpetrator fails to request an administrative hearing within the time specified in subsection (c)(3), the perpetrator named in a substantiated report may request an administrative hearing to contest the classification of the report if the perpetrator demonstrates that the failure to request an administrative hearing was due to excusable neglect or fraud. The Indiana Rules of Civil Procedure provide the standard for excusable neglect or fraud.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.67.
Ind. Code § 31-16-1-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-16-1-2
Purposes and policies of IC 31-16-1 through IC 31-16-12
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. The purpose and policy of this chapter and IC 31-16-2 through IC 31-16-12 are to provide for child support.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-27-6-14 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-27-6-14
Cooperation by licensees
Status: in_force

Sec. 14. The licensee shall cooperate with the department and any other state agency working on behalf of the department in carrying out the activities required by sections 12 through 13 of this chapter, including permitting the department to conduct announced or unannounced inspections.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.133.
Ind. Code § 31-19-9-17 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-19-9-17
Establishment of paternity by putative father; restrictions
Status: in_force

Sec. 17. (a) A putative father whose consent to an adoption is implied under section 15 of this chapter is not entitled to establish paternity of the child, by affidavit or otherwise, in Indiana or any other jurisdiction.

(b) Notwithstanding subsection (a), a putative father who is barred from establishing paternity of the child under subsection (a) may establish paternity of the child in a court proceeding under IC 31-14 or in any other jurisdiction if:

(1) the putative father submits, together with the petition to establish paternity, an affidavit prepared by the:

(A) licensed child placing agency; or

(B) attorney;

that served notice or caused notice to be served upon the putative father under IC 31-19-3-1 stating that neither a petition for adoption nor a placement of the child in a proposed adoptive home is pending; and

(2) the court finds on the record, based on all the information available to the court, including an affidavit described under subdivision (1), that neither a:

(A) petition for adoption; nor

(B) placement of the child in a prospective adoptive home;

is pending.

The requirements of this subsection are jurisdictional and must be strictly adhered to by the putative father and the court.

(c) An individual who is otherwise barred from establishing paternity under this article may establish paternity in relation to a child if an adoption for the child is not pending or contemplated. A petition for adoption that is not filed or a petition for adoption that is dismissed is not a basis for enabling an individual to establish paternity under this section unless the requirements of subsection (b) are satisfied.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-6.4(h).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.200-1999, SEC.22; P.L.61-2003, SEC.12; P.L.113-2017, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-41-2-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 41 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-41-2-3
Dual status team meetings; considerations
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) The dual status assessment team shall meet within ten (10) days of the date ordered by the juvenile court.

(b) The dual status assessment team shall be convened by the facilitator described in section 2(a)(5) of this chapter.

(c) The dual status assessment team shall consider:

(1) any allegations of abuse or neglect suffered by the child; and

(2) any allegation that the child is a delinquent child under IC 31-37-1-1 or IC 31-37-2-1.

As added by P.L.66-2015, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.149-2016, SEC.83.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-256 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-256
"Wardship"
Status: in_force

Sec. 256. (a) "Wardship", for purposes of the juvenile law, means the responsibility for temporary care and custody of a child by transferring the rights and obligations from the child's parent, guardian, or custodian to the person granted wardship. Except to the extent a right or an obligation is specifically addressed in the court order establishing wardship, the rights and obligations of the person granted wardship include making decisions concerning the:

(1) physical custody of the child;

(2) care and supervision of the child;

(3) child's visitation with parents, relatives, or other individuals; and

(4) medical care and treatment of the child.

(b) "Wardship" does not apply to requirements for consenting to an adoption under IC 31-19-9.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-15-4-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-15-4-4
Hearing of motions
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. The motion for temporary maintenance, support or custody of a child, or possession of property under section 1 of this chapter shall be set for hearing by the court.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-33-3-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-33-3-4
Meetings; agenda
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) The community child protection team shall meet:

(1) at least one (1) time each month; or

(2) at the times that the team's services are needed by the department.

(b) Meetings of the team shall be called by the majority vote of the members of the team.

(c) The team coordinator or at least two (2) other members of the team may determine the agenda.

(d) Notwithstanding IC 5-14-1.5, meetings of the team are open only to persons authorized to receive information under this article.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-11-15(c), (d), (e), (f).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.103.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-90 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-90
"Evaluator"
Status: in_force

Sec. 90. "Evaluator", for purposes of IC 31-32-2 and IC 31-37-8-4.5, means a person responsible for providing mental health screening, evaluation, or treatment to a child in connection with a juvenile proceeding or probation proceeding under this title.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-26-4.5-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 4.5 / Section 31-26-4.5-7
Reporting
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. Before October 1 of each year, the department shall prepare a report to the general assembly in an electronic format under IC 5-14-6 regarding the funds received and payments made by the fund.

As added by P.L.59-2022, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-15-5-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-15-5-6
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-8.2(f) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7. Repealed by P.L.133-2002, SEC.69.
Ind. Code § 31-21-2-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-21-2-6
"Commencement"
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. "Commencement" means the filing of the first pleading in a proceeding.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-32-3-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-32-3-4
Representation by attorney
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. The guardian ad litem or the court appointed special advocate may be represented by an attorney.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-115 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-115
"Group home"
Status: in_force

Sec. 115. "Group home", for purposes of IC 31-27, means a residential structure in which care is provided on a twenty-four (24) hour basis for not more than ten (10) children.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-31-5-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 31 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-31-5-3
Duties of chief probation officer
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. The chief probation officer, under the direction of the juvenile court, shall supervise the work of the probation department.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.14.
Ind. Code § 31-21-2-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-21-2-2
"Abandoned"
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. "Abandoned" means left without provision for reasonable and necessary care or supervision.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-34-6-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-34-6-1
Detention in certain facilities prohibited
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. A child alleged to be a child in need of services may not be held in:

(1) a secure detention facility;

(2) a community based correctional facility for children;

(3) a juvenile detention facility; or

(4) a shelter care facility that houses persons charged with, imprisoned for, or incarcerated for crimes.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-6.5(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.104-2015, SEC.33.
Ind. Code § 31-14-13-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-14-13-10
Repealed
Status: repealed

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.50-2006, SEC.6. Repealed by P.L.186-2019, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-19-9-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-19-9-6
Information and forms provided to birth parents
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. The individual who or agency that arranges for the signing of a consent to adoption shall provide each birth parent whose consent to adoption is obtained under this chapter with the following:

(1) An explanation concerning the following:

(A) The availability of adoption history information under IC 31-19-17 through IC 31-19-25.5.

(B) The birth parent's option to file a contact preference form with the state registrar if the birth parent seeks to restrict the release of identifying information.

(C) That identifying information may be released unless the birth parent files the contact preference form with the state registrar indicating the birth parent's lack of consent to the release of identifying information.

(2) A contact preference form prescribed by the state registrar under IC 31-19-25-4.6.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.191-2011, SEC.12; P.L.3-2016, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-36-3-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 36 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-36-3-1
"Services or items"
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. As used in this chapter, "services or items" includes food, clothing, personal hygiene products, health care, and counseling.

As added by P.L.133-2008, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-73 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-73
"Delinquent"
Status: in_force

Sec. 73. (a) "Delinquent", for purposes of IC 31-16-15, refers to a situation in which an obligor is the equivalent of one (1) month in arrears in the payment of child support ordered by a court.

(b) "Delinquent", for purposes of IC 31-16-16, refers to a situation in which an obligor is in arrears in the payment of child support ordered by a court in Indiana or another state that has jurisdiction over the support order.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-37-14-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 14 / Section 31-37-14-2
Burden of proof in proceedings to terminate parental rights
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. A finding in a proceeding to terminate parental rights must be based upon clear and convincing evidence.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-13(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-34-18-1.1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 18 / Section 31-34-18-1.1
Consultation with experts; participants in conference
Status: in_force

Sec. 1.1. (a) The person preparing the report under section 1 of this chapter:

(1) may; or

(2) if directed by the court, shall;

confer with individuals who have expertise in professional areas related to the child's needs in the areas of appropriate care, treatment, rehabilitation, or placement for a child in need of services.

(b) A conference held under this section may include representatives of the following:

(1) The child's school.

(2) The probation department.

(3) The department.

(4) A community mental health center located in the child's county of residence.

(5) A community intellectual disability and other developmental disabilities center located in the child's county of residence.

(6) Other persons as the court may direct.

As added by P.L.55-1997, SEC.15. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.307; P.L.117-2015, SEC.40.
Ind. Code § 31-27-6-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-27-6-12
Inspections of agencies
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. The department may conduct an inspection of a child placing agency for the sole purpose of inquiry into matters as stated in the rules, including those directly affecting the health, safety, treatment, and general well-being of the children protected under this article.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-22 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-22
"Assistance"
Status: in_force

Sec. 22. "Assistance", for purposes of the following statutes, means money or services regardless of the source, paid or furnished under any of the following statutes:

(1) IC 31-25-3.

(2) IC 31-25-4.

(3) IC 31-26-3.5.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-37-5-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-37-5-7
Suspension of child's driving privileges; reinstatement; probationary privileges; removal from record
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) If a child is alleged to have committed an act that would be an offense under IC 9-30-5 if committed by an adult, a juvenile court shall recommend the immediate suspension of the child's driving privileges as provided in IC 9-30-5. If a court recommends suspension of a child's driving privileges under this section, the bureau of motor vehicles shall comply with the recommendation of suspension as provided in IC 9-30-6-12.

(b) If a court recommends suspension of a child's driving privileges under this section, the court may order the bureau of motor vehicles to reinstate the child's driving privileges as provided in IC 9-30-6-11.

(c) If a juvenile court orders the bureau of motor vehicles to reinstate a child's driving privileges under subsection (b), the bureau shall comply with the order. Unless the order for reinstatement is issued as provided under IC 9-30-6-11(a)(2) because of a violation of the speedy trial provisions applicable to the juvenile court, the bureau shall also do the following:

(1) Remove any record of the suspension from the bureau's record keeping system.

(2) Reinstate the privileges without cost to the person.

(d) If a juvenile court orders a suspension under this section and the child did not refuse to submit to a chemical test offered under IC 9-30-6-2 during the investigation of the delinquent act that would have been an offense under IC 9-30-5 if committed by an adult, the juvenile court may grant the child specialized driving privileges in conformity with the procedures in IC 9-30-16.

(e) If a proceeding described in this section is terminated in favor of the child and the child did not refuse to submit to a chemical test offered as provided under IC 9-30-6-2 during the investigation of the delinquent act that would be an offense under IC 9-30-5 if committed by an adult, the bureau shall remove any record of the suspension, including the reasons for the suspension, from the child's official driving record.

(f) The bureau of motor vehicles may adopt rules under IC 4-22-2 to carry out this section.

As added by P.L.32-2000, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.217-2014, SEC.183.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-70 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-70
"Custodial parent"
Status: in_force

Sec. 70. "Custodial parent", for purposes of IC 31-14-13-8, IC 31-14-15, IC 31-16-6-1.5, IC 31-16-12.5, IC 31-17-2-22, and IC 31-17-4, means the parent who has been awarded physical custody of a child by a court.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-6-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-18.5-6-12
Recognition of order modified in another state
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. If a child support order issued by an Indiana tribunal is modified by a tribunal of another state which assumed jurisdiction under the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act, an Indiana tribunal:

(1) may enforce its order that was modified only as to arrears and interest accruing before the modification;

(2) may provide appropriate relief for violations of its order which occurred before the effective date of the modification; and

(3) shall recognize the modifying order of the other state, upon registration, for the purpose of enforcement.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-152 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-152
"Licensed kinship caregiver"
Status: in_force

Sec. 152. "Licensed kinship caregiver" means a relative who is:

(1) providing care and supervision to a child under a court order for purposes of placement in a child in need of services case or juvenile delinquency case; and

(2) licensed as a foster parent under IC 31-27-4.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-40-1-1.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 40 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-40-1-1.5
Definitions
Status: in_force

Sec. 1.5. (a) As used in this chapter, "costs of secure detention" includes all expenses relating to any of the following items:

(1) Construction, repair, operation, maintenance, and administration of a secure detention facility.

(2) Room, board, supervision, and support services for housing at a secure detention facility of a child who has been:

(A) taken into custody under IC 31-37-5 and placed in a secure detention facility for purposes of court proceedings under IC 31-37; or

(B) placed in a secure detention facility under IC 31-37-19-6 or IC 31-37-19-10.

(3) Services provided by the department, a county probation office, or any service provider contracted by the department or county probation office if the services are provided:

(A) to or for the benefit of the child;

(B) under or consistent with the terms of a dispositional decree entered in accordance with IC 31-37-19-6 or IC 31-37-19-10; and

(C) during the time the child is housed in a secure detention facility.

(b) As used in this chapter, "secure detention facility" includes:

(1) a juvenile detention center described in IC 31-31-8 or IC 31-31-9; or

(2) a secure facility, including any separate unit or structure, that is:

(A) not licensed by the department under IC 31-27; or

(B) located outside Indiana.

(c) As used in this chapter, "services" includes education, provision of necessary clothing and supplies, medical and dental care, counseling and remediation, or any other services or programs included in a dispositional decree or case plan ordered or approved by the juvenile court for the benefit of a delinquent child under IC 31-37.

As added by P.L.146-2008, SEC.664.
Ind. Code § 31-21-2-20 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-21-2-20
"Tribe"
Status: in_force

Sec. 20. "Tribe" means an Indian tribe or band or Alaskan Native village that is:

(1) recognized by federal law; or

(2) formally acknowledged by a state.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-6-15 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-18.5-6-15
Jurisdiction to modify child support order of foreign country
Status: in_force

Sec. 15. (a) Except as otherwise provided in IC 31-18.5-7-11, if a foreign country lacks or refuses to exercise jurisdiction to modify its child support order pursuant to its laws, an Indiana tribunal may assume jurisdiction to modify the child support order and bind all individuals subject to the personal jurisdiction of the tribunal, whether the consent to modification of a child support order otherwise required of the individual under section 11 of this chapter has been given or whether the individual seeking modification is a resident of Indiana or of the foreign country.

(b) An order issued by an Indiana tribunal modifying a foreign child support order pursuant to this section is the controlling order.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-34-4-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-34-4-3
Order to take child to designated place pending detention hearing
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. If a child is taken into custody under an order of the court, the law enforcement officer shall take the child to a place designated in the order to await a detention hearing.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-222 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-222
"Secure facility"
Status: in_force

Sec. 222. "Secure facility", for purposes of the juvenile law, means a place of residence, other than a shelter care facility, that prohibits the departure of a child.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-19-24-16 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 24 / Section 31-19-24-16
Penalty
Status: in_force

Sec. 16. Failure of the confidential intermediary appointed under this chapter to comply with a court order under sections 2 through 11 of this chapter is punishable as contempt of court.

As added by P.L.196-1997, SEC.24. Amended by P.L.2-1998, SEC.77.
Ind. Code § 31-32-2-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-32-2-2
Additional rights of child charged with delinquent act
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. In addition to the rights described in section 1 of this chapter, a child charged with a delinquent act is also entitled to:

(1) be represented by counsel under IC 31-32-4;

(2) refrain from testifying against the child; and

(3) confront witnesses.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-25-2-4.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-25-2-4.5
Repealed
Status: repealed

As added by P.L.100-2009, SEC.4. Repealed by P.L.48-2012, SEC.23.
Ind. Code § 31-35-2-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-35-2-5
Representation of state's interests
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. Upon the filing of a petition under section 4 of this chapter, the attorney for the department shall represent the interests of the state in all subsequent proceedings on the petition.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.18. Amended by P.L.146-2008, SEC.617.
Ind. Code § 31-14-4-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-14-4-3
Department or prosecuting attorney permitted to file action
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) The department or a prosecuting attorney operating under an agreement or contract described in IC 31-25-4-13.1, may file a paternity action as next friend of the child if:

(1) the mother;

(2) the person with whom the child resides;

(3) the department; or

(4) the alleged father;

has executed an assignment of support rights or applied for IV-D services under Title IV-D of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 651 through 669) and IC 31-25-4-19.

(b) A filing under subsection (a) by the department or prosecuting attorney must be made within the period that would apply if the child were filing on the child's own behalf under IC 31-14-5-2.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-2(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.222; P.L.206-2015, SEC.46; P.L.55-2022, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-28-4-1.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 28 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-28-4-1.5
Application of chapter until state withdraws from compact
Status: in_force

Sec. 1.5. (a) This chapter remains in effect with respect to any state, territory, or possession of the United States, for the District of Columbia, or for the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico if the state, territory, or possession or the district or commonwealth has not adopted the interstate compact for the placement of children under IC 31-28-6. This chapter remains in effect until the governor gives written notice of the withdrawal of Indiana from the compact set forth in section 1 of this chapter to the governor of each other jurisdiction that is a party to the compact set forth in section 1 of this chapter.

(b) IC 31-28-6 shall be used for the interstate placement of children for a state, territory, or possession of the United States, for the District of Columbia, or for the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico if the state, territory, possession, district, or commonwealth has adopted the interstate compact for the placement of children in the format found in IC 31-28-6.

As added by P.L.143-2008, SEC.10.
Ind. Code § 31-37-5-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-37-5-2
Taking child to designated place pending detention hearing
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. If a child is taken into custody under an order of the court, the law enforcement officer shall take the child to a place designated in the order to await a detention hearing.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-26-6-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-26-6-9
Review and consideration of certain programs
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. In preparing the plan under section 5 of this chapter, a regional services council shall review and consider existing publicly and privately funded programs that are available or that could be made available in the regional services council's service region to provide supportive services to or for the benefit of children described in section 5 of this chapter without removing the child from the family home, including programs funded through the following:

(1) Title IV-B of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 621 et seq.).

(2) Title IV-E of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 670 et seq.).

(3) Title XX of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1397 et seq.).

(4) The Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (42 U.S.C. 5106 et seq.).

(5) Special education programs under IC 20-35-6-2.

(6) All programs designed to prevent child abuse, neglect, or delinquency, or to enhance child welfare and family preservation administered by, or through funding provided by, the department, prosecuting attorneys, or juvenile courts, including programs funded under IC 31-26-3.5 and IC 31-40.

As added by P.L.146-2008, SEC.571. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.92; P.L.7-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-27-4-17 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-27-4-17
Probationary status; duration; expiration; extension
Status: in_force

Sec. 17. (a) The department may place a licensee on probationary status if the licensee is temporarily unable to comply with a rule and if:

(1) the noncompliance does not present an immediate threat to the health and well-being of the children;

(2) the licensee files a plan with the department to correct the areas of noncompliance within the probationary period; and

(3) the department approves the plan.

(b) A probationary status period is for not more than six (6) months. However, the department may extend a probationary status period for one (1) additional period of six (6) months.

(c) At the expiration of a probationary status period, the department shall:

(1) reactivate the license to the end of the original term of the license;

(2) extend the probationary status period as permitted under subsection (b); or

(3) revoke the license.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.146-2006, SEC.32.
Ind. Code § 31-27-4-14 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-27-4-14
Delegation of investigations
Status: in_force

Sec. 14. (a) The department may delegate the investigation of foster family homes to a licensed child placing agency. The child placing agency is responsible for completing a foster family home licensing study that shows substantial compliance with foster family home rules and is the basis of a recommendation for licensure to the department.

(b) The department shall:

(1) issue the license; or

(2) notify the child placing agency if a license is not issued, giving the reasons for the denial.

(c) After licensure the child placing agency shall supervise and monitor the foster family home in relation to the rules for licensure and shall recommend subsequent licensing and enforcement actions.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-35-3-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-35-3-3
Jurisdiction
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. The probate court has concurrent original jurisdiction with the juvenile court in proceedings on a petition to terminate the parent-child relationship under this chapter.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-26-4-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-26-4-5
Indiana kids first trust fund board
Status: in_force

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

Sec. 5. (a) The Indiana kids first trust fund board is established.

(b) The purpose of the board is to determine whether proposed projects under this chapter should be approved and to perform other duties given to the board by this chapter. The board shall approve projects and recommend to the department that the projects receive funds under sections 12 and 14 of this chapter.

(c) The board shall, before January 1 of each year, prepare a budget for expenditures from the fund for the following state fiscal year. The budget must contain priorities for expenditures from the fund to accomplish the projects that have been approved under this chapter. The budget shall be submitted to the department and the budget committee.

(d) The board may employ staff necessary to carry out the duties of the board.

(e) The board may establish a nonprofit subsidiary corporation under section 17 of this chapter.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.272. Amended by P.L.93-2021, SEC.1.
Ind. Code § 31-12-2-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 12 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-12-2-4
Actions and proceedings in which counseling services shall be provided; referrals
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) A domestic relations counseling bureau shall provide counseling service to the parties in separation, dissolution, or annulment actions, including enforcement, modification, and post-decree proceedings that are:

(1) filed in a court; and

(2) referred to the bureau by a judge with the intent to assist in a reconciliation of the parties, in the care and treatment of children, if any, and in the possible solution of any marriage problems or issues in a proceeding, in promotion of the general welfare.

(b) The bureau may receive cases referred to the bureau by attorneys at law, the ministry, or other agencies before a divorce action is filed, and counsel other married couples who seek the bureau's services of their own volition.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-24-3.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-27-1-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-27-1-2
Legalization of issuance of certain licenses
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. Any license issued to a foster home, day care home, day care center, child caring institution, or children's home that:

(1) was issued before July 1, 1988, without the approval of the state board of health; and

(2) otherwise was issued in compliance with IC 12-3-2 (before its repeal, later codified at IC 12-17-4, before its repeal), as effective before July 1, 1988;

is legalized and validated.

As added by P.L.220-2011, SEC.507.
Ind. Code § 31-34-22-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 22 / Section 31-34-22-1
Progress report; modification report
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) Before a case review under IC 31-34-21-2 or hearing under IC 31-34-21-7, the 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, or reuniting the family.

(b) When preparing the report required by subsection (a), if the child is placed in foster care, the department shall consult the foster parent of the child about the child's progress made while in the foster parent's care. The department shall include as part of the report the information gathered from the foster parent.

(c) If modification of the dispositional decree is recommended, the department shall prepare a modification report containing the information required by IC 31-34-18 and request a formal court hearing.

(d) If the child has been removed from the child's home for less than twelve (12) months, a report described in subsection (a) must include an explanation of the department's ongoing effort to identify all adult relatives of the child and adult siblings who may be considered as out-of-home placements for the child.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.138-2007, SEC.75; P.L.146-2008, SEC.610; P.L.210-2019, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-19-18-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 18 / Section 31-19-18-1
Administration of adoption history program
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. The state registrar shall administer the adoption history program provided for in this chapter, IC 31-19-19 through IC 31-19-23, IC 31-19-25, and IC 31-19-25.5.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-4-12.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.191-2011, SEC.14.
Ind. Code § 31-34-5-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-34-5-1
Time for hearing; notice; petition alleging a child is a child in need of services
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) If a child taken into custody under IC 31-34-2 is not released, a detention hearing shall be held not later than forty-eight (48) hours, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and any day on which a legal holiday is observed for state employees as provided under IC 1-1-9, after the child is taken into custody. If the detention hearing is not held, the child shall be released. Notice of the time, place, and purpose of the detention hearing shall be given to the following:

(1) The child.

(2) The child's parent, guardian, or custodian if the person can be located.

(3) Each foster parent or other caretaker with whom the child has been placed for temporary care under IC 31-34-4.

(b) The court shall:

(1) provide a person who is required to be notified under subsection (a)(2) or (a)(3) an opportunity to be heard; and

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

at the detention hearing.

(c) A petition alleging that a child described in subsection (a) is a child in need of services shall be filed before a detention hearing is held for the child.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.35-1998, SEC.6; P.L.138-2007, SEC.68; P.L.131-2009, SEC.60.
Ind. Code § 31-16-14-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 14 / Section 31-16-14-2
Commencement of action; contents of complaint
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) A dependent spouse may bring an action under section 1 of this chapter by filing a complaint against the other spouse and against other persons who may be joined as codefendants in the action under section 1(b) of this chapter. The complaint must contain the following:

(1) An allegation of the marriage of the dependent spouse and the other spouse.

(2) The name and age of each dependent child living with or in the custody of the dependent spouse.

(3) A statement that the dependent spouse may bring the action for a reason described in section 1(a) of this chapter.

(4) The most specific possible description of the real and personal property of the other spouse that is in Indiana.

(5) An allegation of the probable value of the real and personal property of the other spouse that is in Indiana.

(6) The circumstances and mode of life of the dependent spouse and other spouse.

(7) The amount necessary to support the dependent spouse and dependent children.

(b) If other persons are joined as codefendants in the action under section 1(b) of this chapter, the complaint described in subsection (a) must also contain the following:

(1) An allegation that the other persons:

(A) are indebted to either spouse; or

(B) have rights, credits, or choses in action that belong to either spouse and that are in the possession or control of the other persons.

(2) An allegation of the amount of indebtedness under subdivision (1)(A).

(3) An allegation of the value of the rights, credits, and choses in action described in subdivision (1)(B).

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-11-2.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-149 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-149
"Law enforcement agency"
Status: in_force

Sec. 149. "Law enforcement agency", for purposes of IC 31-36, means a governmental agency or department whose principal function is the apprehension of criminal offenders.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-27-6-27 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-27-6-27
Expiration of injunctions for noncompliance
Status: in_force

Sec. 27. A court order granted under section 26(b)(2) of this chapter expires upon the later of the following:

(1) Sixty (60) days after the order is issued.

(2) When a final department decision is issued under sections 16 through 18 of this chapter if notice of an enforcement action is issued under section 16 of this chapter.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.138.
Ind. Code § 31-19-7-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-19-7-3
Approval filed with adoption petition
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Approval under this chapter for placement in a proposed adoptive home must be filed with the petition for adoption.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-239 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-239
"Support order"
Status: in_force

Sec. 239. (a) "Support order", for purposes of IC 31-16-15 and IC 31-16-16, means any judgment, decree, or order of child support, including medical support, issued by a court, in Indiana or another state, that has jurisdiction over the support order. The term includes orders issued under IC 31-14 through IC 31-17.

(b) "Support order", 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 § 31-15-2-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-15-2-7
Venue; legal separation proceeding pending or order in effect; disposition
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) A petition or counter petition for dissolution of marriage must be filed in the court in which:

(1) a legal separation proceeding is pending; or

(2) a provisional order or decree for legal separation is in effect;

if the petition for legal separation was filed before the petition or counter petition for dissolution of marriage.

(b) If a petition or counter petition for dissolution of marriage under section 4 of this chapter is filed while a provisional order or decree for legal separation is in effect, the procedure for dissolution of marriage continues. The provisional order or decree for legal separation remains in effect only:

(1) until the effective date of the provisional order on the petition or counter petition for dissolution; or

(2) until the provisional order or decree for legal separation expires;

whichever occurs first.

(c) The court shall dismiss a petition for legal separation if, at the time the petition for dissolution is filed, neither:

(1) a provisional order; nor

(2) a decree for legal separation;

has been granted.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-8.5.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-32-2-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-32-2-7
Contact with juvenile justice system not disqualification from governmental application, examination, or appointment
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. A child's contact with the juvenile justice system does not disqualify the child from any governmental application, examination, or appointment.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-3-5(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-33-5-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-33-5-4
Immediate oral or written report to department of child services or law enforcement agency
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) Except as provided in subsection (b), a person who has a duty under this chapter to report that a child may be a victim of child abuse or neglect shall immediately make an oral or written report to:

(1) the department; or

(2) the appropriate law enforcement agency.

(b) A person who has a duty under section 2(c) of this chapter to report that a child may be a victim of child abuse or neglect shall immediately make an oral or written report to:

(1) the department; or

(2) the appropriate law enforcement agency.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-11-4.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.107; P.L.183-2017, SEC.34; P.L.168-2025, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-19-8-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-19-8-8
Agency report and recommendation; nonbinding on court
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. The report and recommendation of the licensed child placing agency or local office are not binding on the court but are advisory only.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-4(g).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.138-2007, SEC.43; P.L.131-2009, SEC.21; P.L.128-2012, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-21-4-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-21-4-3
Communication between courts
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Communication between courts regarding:

(1) schedules;

(2) calendars;

(3) court records; and

(4) similar matters;

may occur without informing the parties. A record need not be made of the communication.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-17-5-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-17-5-6
Decree
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. Upon hearing evidence in support of and opposition to a petition filed under this chapter, the court shall enter a decree setting forth the court's findings and conclusions.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.7-7.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-7-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-18.5-7-8
Recognition and enforcement of registered support order
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. (a) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b), an Indiana tribunal shall recognize and enforce a registered Convention support order.

(b) The following grounds are the only grounds on which an Indiana tribunal may refuse recognition and enforcement of a registered Convention support order:

(1) Recognition and enforcement of the order is manifestly incompatible with public policy, including the failure of the issuing tribunal to observe minimum standards of due process, which include notice and an opportunity to be heard.

(2) The issuing tribunal lacked personal jurisdiction consistent with IC 31-18.5-2-1.

(3) The order is not enforceable in the issuing country.

(4) The order was obtained by fraud in connection with a matter of procedure.

(5) A record transmitted in accordance with section 6 of this chapter lacks authenticity or integrity.

(6) A proceeding between the same parties and having the same purpose is pending before an Indiana tribunal and that proceeding was the first to be filed.

(7) The order is incompatible with a more recent support order involving the same parties and having the same purpose if the more recent support order is entitled to recognition and enforcement under this article in Indiana.

(8) Payment, to the extent alleged arrears have been paid in whole or in part.

(9) In a case in which the respondent neither appeared nor was represented in the proceeding in the issuing foreign country:

(A) if the law of that country provides for prior notice of proceedings, the respondent did not have proper notice of the proceedings and an opportunity to be heard; or

(B) if the law of that country does not provide for prior notice of the proceedings, the respondent did not have proper notice of the order and an opportunity to be heard in a challenge or appeal on fact or law before a tribunal.

(10) The order was made in violation of section 11 of this chapter.

(c) If an Indiana tribunal does not recognize a Convention support order under subsection (b)(2), (b)(4), or (b)(9):

(1) the tribunal may not dismiss the proceeding without allowing a reasonable time for a party to request the establishment of a new Convention support order; and

(2) the support enforcement agency shall take all appropriate measures to request a child support order for the obligee if the application for recognition and enforcement was received under section 4 of this chapter.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-19-4-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-19-4-3
Notice to putative father not registered with putative father registry; name or address undisclosed by mother; child conceived outside Indiana
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) Except as provided in subsection (c), if:

(1) the mother of a child:

(A) informs an attorney or agency arranging the child's adoption, on or before the date the child's mother executes a consent to the child's adoption, that the child was conceived outside Indiana; and

(B) does not disclose to the attorney or agency the name or address, or both, of the putative father of the child; and

(2) the putative father of the child has:

(A) failed or refused to consent to the adoption of the child or has not had the parent-child relationship terminated under IC 31-35 (or IC 31-6-5 before its repeal); and

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

the attorney or agency shall serve notice of the adoption proceedings on the putative father by publication under IC 31-19-2.5-6(c).

(b) The only circumstance under which notice to the putative father must be given by publication under IC 31-19-2.5-6(c) is when the child was conceived outside of Indiana as described in subsection (a).

(c) If a child who is the subject of an adoption proceeding was conceived in a state other than Indiana in which a putative father registry was in existence at the time of the child's conception, a putative father must register with:

(1) the putative father registry under IC 31-19-5 by the date by which the putative father is required to register under IC 31-19-5-12 in order to be entitled to notice of the adoption; or

(2) the putative father registry of the state in which the child was conceived by the date by which the putative father is required to register under the laws of that state in order to be entitled to receive notice of the adoption;

whichever date is earlier, to be entitled to notice of the child's adoption under this section.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-6.1(d), (e).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.146-2007, SEC.5; P.L.58-2009, SEC.10; P.L.203-2021, SEC.10.
Ind. Code § 31-40-3-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 40 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-40-3-2
Appropriations
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. The fiscal body of the county shall appropriate money from:

(1) the guardian ad litem fund; or

(2) the court appointed special advocate fund;

to the juvenile courts of the county for use by the courts in providing guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate services and the costs of representation for the guardians ad litem or court appointed special advocates.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-18(i) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.23.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25-21 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-19-25-21
Client consent required for release of identifying information by attorney; court order
Status: in_force

Sec. 21. (a) An attorney may release identifying information under this chapter only if the client that the attorney represented in the adoption has submitted a written consent to the release of the identifying information to the individual requesting the identifying information.

(b) If a client described under subsection (a) is deceased or otherwise unavailable, the identifying information in the attorney's possession may be released only under a court order issued in a proceeding under IC 31-19-24.

As added by P.L.191-2011, SEC.54.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-160 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-160
"Medical information"
Status: in_force

Sec. 160. "Medical information", for purposes of IC 31-19-18, IC 31-19-20, and IC 31-19-24, means any information that may affect the medical history of an adoptee.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-16-16-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 16 / Section 31-16-16-1
Supplemental remedies
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. This chapter supplements other remedies available for the enforcement of a support order.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-2-11-7.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25.5-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25.5 / Section 31-19-25.5-11
Fee for actual expenses
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. The Indiana department of health may charge a reasonable fee for actual expenses incurred in complying with this chapter.

As added by P.L.191-2011, SEC.55. Amended by P.L.56-2023, SEC.296.
Ind. Code § 31-37-10-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-37-10-4
Error in or omission of citation; effect
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. Error in a citation or the omission of a citation is ground for:

(1) dismissal of the petition; or

(2) reversal of the adjudication;

only if the error or omission misleads the child to the child's prejudice.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-15-4-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-15-4-3
Motion for temporary restraining order
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. As a part of a motion for temporary maintenance, for support or custody of a child, or for possession of property under section 1 of this chapter or by independent motion accompanied by affidavit, either party may request the court to issue a temporary restraining order:

(1) restraining any person from transferring, encumbering, concealing, or in any way disposing of any property, except in the usual course of business or for the necessities of life; or

(2) granting temporary possession of property to either party.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7. Amended by P.L.133-2002, SEC.29.
Ind. Code § 31-34-15-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-34-15-2
Time for completion
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. The department, after negotiating with:

(1) the child's parent, guardian, or custodian;

(2) the child, if the child is at least fourteen (14) years of age; and

(3) any child representatives selected by the child under section 7 of this chapter;

shall complete a child's case plan not later than sixty (60) days after the date of the child's first placement or the date of a dispositional decree, whichever occurs first.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-6.6(b) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.302; P.L.104-2015, SEC.35.
Ind. Code § 31-14-21-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-14-21-12
Repealed
Status: repealed

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Repealed by P.L.200-1999, SEC.34.
Ind. Code § 31-32-16-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 16 / Section 31-32-16-5
Treatment; clear and convincing evidence
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. Following a hearing, the juvenile court may order involuntary drug and alcohol treatment for not more than forty-five (45) consecutive days if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the child:

(1) is a drug or alcohol abuser (as defined in 440 IAC 4.4-1-1);

(2) is incapable of consenting to or refuses to consent to voluntary treatment services; and

(3) will benefit from a period of involuntary drug and alcohol treatment.

As added by P.L.196-2003, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-21-6-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-21-6-1
Order for the return of a child made under the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. Under this chapter, an Indiana court may enforce an order for the return of the child made under the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction as if it were a child custody determination.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-37-17-1.1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 17 / Section 31-37-17-1.1
Consultation with experts; participants in conference
Status: in_force

Sec. 1.1. (a) The person preparing the report under section 1 of this chapter:

(1) may; or

(2) if directed by the court, shall;

confer with individuals who have expertise in professional areas related to the child's needs in the areas of appropriate care, treatment, rehabilitation, or placement for a delinquent child.

(b) A conference held under this chapter may include representatives of the following:

(1) The child's school.

(2) The probation department.

(3) The department.

(4) A community mental health center located in the child's county of residence.

(5) A community intellectual disability and other developmental disabilities center located in the child's county of residence.

(6) Other persons as the court may direct.

As added by P.L.55-1997, SEC.26. Amended by P.L.253-1997(ss), SEC.28.5; P.L.145-2006, SEC.340; P.L.117-2015, SEC.41.
Ind. Code § 31-33-22-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 22 / Section 31-33-22-5
Access by accused to false report
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. A person who is accused of committing child abuse or neglect is entitled to access to a report relevant to an alleged false accusation filed under this article if a court finds that the report:

(1) is unsubstantiated; and

(2) was intentionally communicated to a law enforcement agency or the department by a person who knew the report was false.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-11-26.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.167.
Ind. Code § 31-16-15-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-16-15-4
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-2-10-7.3.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.86; P.L.148-2006, SEC.19. Repealed by P.L.103-2007, SEC.51.
Ind. Code § 31-34-8-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-34-8-9
Repealed
Status: repealed

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.98-2004, SEC.113. Repealed by P.L.146-2008, SEC.805.
Ind. Code § 31-35-2-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-35-2-7
Guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) If a parent objects to the termination of the parent-child relationship, the court shall appoint:

(1) a guardian ad litem;

(2) a court appointed special advocate; or

(3) both;

for the child.

(b) If a guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate has been appointed for the child under IC 31-34-10, the court may reappoint the guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate to represent and protect the best interests of the child in the termination proceedings.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-11-11-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-11-11-3
False information concerning applicant's physical condition
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. An applicant for a marriage license who knowingly furnishes false information concerning the applicant's physical condition to the clerk of a circuit court commits a Level 6 felony.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-9-3.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3. Amended by P.L.41-2005, SEC.1; P.L.158-2013, SEC.309.
Ind. Code § 31-17-1-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-17-1-2
Purpose and policy
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. The purpose and policy of this chapter, IC 31-17-2, IC 31-17-4, IC 31-17-6, and IC 31-17-7 are to provide for child custody.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-179 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-179
"Petitioner"
Status: in_force

Sec. 179. "Petitioner", for purposes of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act under IC 31-21, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-21-2-15.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-32-7-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-32-7-3
Assignment of case or supervision of child to county of child's residence
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) Upon:

(1) the juvenile court's own motion;

(2) the motion of a child; or

(3) the motion of the child's parent, guardian, or custodian;

the juvenile court may assign a case to a juvenile court in the county of a child's residence at any time before the dispositional hearing.

(b) Supervision of a child may be assigned to a juvenile court in the county of the child's residence.

(c) The assigning court shall send to the receiving court certified copies of all documents pertaining to the case.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-8.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-25-2-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-25-2-1
"Department"
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. As used in this article, "department" refers to the department of child services established by IC 31-25-1-1.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271.
Ind. Code § 31-34-12-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-34-12-9
Rebuttable presumption to prohibit in person contact with child
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. If:

(1) a child is the subject of a petition alleging that the child is a child in need of services; and

(2) a parent of the child has been convicted of committing:

(A) aggravated battery (IC 35-42-2-1.5);

(B) strangulation (IC 35-42-2-9); or

(C) neglect of a dependent under IC 35-46-1-4(b)(2) or IC 35-46-1-4(b)(3);

against the child;

there is a rebuttable presumption that it is in the child's best interests to prohibit the parent from having in person contact with the child until a dispositional decree is entered or the petition is dismissed.

As added by P.L.244-2023, SEC.10.
Ind. Code § 31-16-12-0.3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-16-12-0.3
Repealed
Status: repealed

As added by P.L.220-2011, SEC.503. Repealed by P.L.39-2011, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-10-1-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 10 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-10-1-5
References to repealed or replaced statutes
Status: repealed

Sec. 5. Subject to section 8 of this chapter, a reference in a statute or rule to a statute that is repealed and replaced in the same or a different form in the recodification act of the 1997 regular session of the general assembly shall be treated after the effective date of the new provision as a reference to the new provision.

[1997 Recodification Citation: New.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-40 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-40
"Child care worker"
Status: in_force

Sec. 40. "Child care worker", for purposes of IC 31-33, means an individual who:

(1) is:

(A) employed, other than self-employed as an owner; or

(B) actively seeking employment;

with an agency, facility, or home described in section 71(b)(2) of this chapter;

(2) is a child caregiver; or

(3) has, or will have, direct contact with a child to whom the individual is not a relative (as defined in section 207(c)(1) through 207(c)(11) of this chapter) on a regular and continuing basis through current employment with any agency, facility, or home that provides:

(A) child care; or

(B) services to, or for the benefit of, a child who is a victim of child abuse or neglect (as described in section 33(c) of this chapter).

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-37-2-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-37-2-2
Delinquent act; leaving home without permission of parent, guardian, or custodian
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. A child commits a delinquent act if, before becoming eighteen (18) years of age, the child leaves home or a specific location previously designated by the child's parent, guardian, or custodian:

(1) without reasonable cause; and

(2) without permission of the parent, guardian, or custodian, who requests the child's return.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.187-2015, SEC.28.
Ind. Code § 31-34-4-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-34-4-6
Duty to inform parent, custodian, or guardian of legal rights
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. (a) The department shall submit written information to a parent, custodian, or guardian of a child who is alleged to be abused or neglected regarding the following legal rights of the parent, custodian, or guardian:

(1) The right to have a detention hearing held by a court within forty-eight (48) hours after the child's removal from the home and to request return of the child at the hearing.

(2) The right to:

(A) be represented by an attorney;

(B) cross examine witnesses; and

(C) present evidence on the parent's, custodian's, or guardian's own behalf;

at each court proceeding on a petition alleging that the child is a child in need of services. The parent, guardian, or custodian has the right to be represented by a court appointed attorney under clause (A) upon the request of the parent, guardian, or custodian if the court finds that the parent, guardian, or custodian does not have sufficient financial means for obtaining representation as described in IC 34-10-1.

(3) The right not to make statements that incriminate the parent, custodian, or guardian and that an incriminating statement may be used during a court proceeding on a petition alleging that the child is a child in need of services.

(4) The right to request to have the case reviewed by the child protection team under IC 31-33-3-6.

(5) The right to be advised that after July 1, 1999, a petition to terminate the parent-child relationship must be filed whenever a child has been removed from the child's parent and has been under the supervision of the department for at least fifteen (15) months of the most recent twenty-two (22) months.

(b) The department shall submit the written information under subsection (a) to the child's parent, guardian, or custodian at the time:

(1) the child is taken into custody; or

(2) the department files a petition alleging that the child is a child in need of services;

whichever occurs earlier.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-6.1.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.35-1998, SEC.5; P.L.145-2006, SEC.291.
Ind. Code § 31-34-9-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-34-9-4
Error in or omission of citation; effect
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. Error in a citation or the omission of a citation is ground for:

(1) dismissal of the petition; or

(2) reversal of the adjudication;

only if the error or omission misleads the child or the child's parent, guardian, or custodian to the child's, parent's, guardian's, or custodian's prejudice.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-10(d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17.
Ind. Code § 31-39-8-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-39-8-8
Law enforcement access to sealed records relating to offense that would be a serious violent felony
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. A person having custody of sealed records relating to a finding that a child committed an offense that would be a serious violent felony (as defined by IC 35-31.5-2-294) shall cooperate with a law enforcement agency to ensure that these records are accessible from the mobile terminal of a law enforcement officer, and are otherwise available to a law enforcement officer acting within the scope of the officer's duties in a timely manner.

As added by P.L.77-2025, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-30-4-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 30 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-30-4-6
Offenders in juvenile facilities; security or safety risks
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. (a) At any time before an offender placed in a juvenile facility under section 2(b) of this chapter becomes twenty-one (21) years of age, the department of correction may transfer the offender to an adult facility if the department of correction believes the offender is a safety or security risk to:

(1) the other offenders or the staff at the juvenile facility; or

(2) the public.

(b) If the department of correction transfers an offender to an adult facility under this section, the department shall notify the sentencing court of the circumstances of the transfer.

As added by P.L.104-2013, SEC.1.
Ind. Code § 31-35-5-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-35-5-1
Application of chapter
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. This chapter applies to an action to determine whether to terminate a parent-child relationship under:

(1) IC 31-35-2; or

(2) IC 31-35-3.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-16-1 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-16-6-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-16-6-1
Child support orders; relevant factors; income withholding; account at financial institution
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) Subject to subsection (f), in an action for dissolution of marriage under IC 31-15-2, legal separation under IC 31-15-3, child support under IC 31-16-2, or establishment of paternity under IC 31-14, the court may order either parent or both parents to pay any amount reasonable for support of a child, without regard to marital misconduct, after considering all relevant factors, including:

(1) the financial resources of the custodial parent;

(2) the standard of living the child would have enjoyed if:

(A) the marriage had not been dissolved;

(B) the separation had not been ordered; or

(C) in the case of a paternity action, the parents had been married and remained married to each other;

(3) the physical or mental condition of the child and the child's educational needs; and

(4) the financial resources and needs of the noncustodial parent.

(b) The court shall order that child support payments ordered under this section be immediately withheld from the income of the parent obligated to pay child support as provided under IC 31-16-15-0.5.

(c) The court shall order a custodial parent or third party under IC 31-16-10-1 who receives child support to obtain an account at a financial institution unless:

(1) the custodial parent or third party files a written objection before a child support order is issued; and

(2) the court finds that good cause exists to exempt the custodial parent or third party from the account requirement.

A custodial parent or third party ordered to obtain an account shall provide the clerk of the circuit court, the state central collection unit, or other person or entity acting as assignee or trustee for remittance with an account number and any other information necessary to transfer funds to the account.

(d) In accordance with its policies, a financial institution may restrict or deny services to a person ordered to obtain an account under this section.

(e) This section may not be construed to require the clerk of the circuit court to remit child support payments by electronic funds transfer.

(f) In determining the amount to be ordered for support of a child, incarceration of a parent may not be considered to be voluntary unemployment.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-12(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.86-2002, SEC.9; P.L.207-2013, SEC.44; P.L.94-2018, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-15-6-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-15-6-4
Term of appointment
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. A guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate serves until the court enters an order for removal.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-129 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-129
"Index"
Status: in_force

Sec. 129. "Index", for purposes of IC 31-33-26, means the child protection index established under IC 31-33-26-2.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-37-9-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-37-9-8
Repealed
Status: repealed

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Repealed by P.L.197-1997, SEC.29.
Ind. Code § 31-21-6-20 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-21-6-20
Assessment of costs
Status: in_force

Sec. 20. If the respondent is not the prevailing party, the court may assess against the respondent the direct expenses and costs incurred by the prosecuting attorney or other appropriate public official and law enforcement officers under section 18 or 19 of this chapter.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-6-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-18.5-6-9
Procedure to register child support order of another state for modification
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. A party or support enforcement agency seeking to modify, or to modify and enforce, a child support order issued in another state shall register that order in Indiana in the same manner provided in sections 1 through 8 of this chapter if the order has not been registered. A petition for modification may be filed at the same time as a request for registration or later. The pleading must specify the grounds for modification.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-87 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-87
"Early intervention advocate"
Status: in_force

Sec. 87. "Early intervention advocate", for purposes of IC 31-32-3, means a volunteer or staff member of a preventative program who is appointed by the court as an officer of the court to assist, represent, and protect the interests of at-risk children.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-27-4-34 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-27-4-34
Investigation of unlicensed home reports; enforcement
Status: in_force

Sec. 34. (a) The department shall investigate a report of an unlicensed foster family home and report the department's findings to the attorney general and to the local office and the prosecuting attorney in the county where the foster family home is located.

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

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

(2) File an action for injunctive relief.

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

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

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.1-2007, SEC.203; P.L.128-2012, SEC.116.
Ind. Code § 31-15-2-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-15-2-1
Applicability of Indiana Rules of Civil Procedure
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. Proceedings under this article must comply with the Indiana Rules of Civil Procedure.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-29 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-29
"Caseworker"
Status: in_force

Sec. 29. "Caseworker", for purposes of the juvenile law (excluding IC 31-27), means an employee of the department of child services who is classified as a family case manager.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-16-15-2.6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-16-15-2.6
Income withholding order; payment in full
Status: in_force

Sec. 2.6. An income withholding order issued under this chapter remains in effect until a child support obligation, including current child support, child support arrearage, medical support, interest, and fees, is paid in full.

As added by P.L.103-2007, SEC.26.
Ind. Code § 31-32-4-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-32-4-1
Persons entitled to representation by counsel
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. The following persons are entitled to be represented by counsel:

(1) A child charged with a delinquent act, as provided by IC 31-32-2-2.

(2) A parent, in a proceeding to terminate the parent-child relationship, as provided by IC 31-32-2-5.

(3) Any other person designated by law.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citations: 31-6-3-1(b) part; 31-6-3-2(c) part; part New.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-35-5-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-35-5-5
Persons who may be present during child's testimony; closed circuit television
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. If the court makes an order under section 2 of this chapter, only the following persons may be in the same room as the child during the child's testimony:

(1) Persons necessary to operate the closed circuit television equipment.

(2) Persons whose presence the court finds will contribute to the child's well-being.

(3) A court bailiff or court representative.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-16-5 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-19-5-22 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-19-5-22
Timeliness of responses to requests; fees
Status: in_force

Sec. 22. (a) Except as provided in section 16 of this chapter, the state department shall immediately respond to requests regarding registrations under this chapter:

(1) in writing; and

(2) in a manner described by section 20 of this chapter.

(b) The state department may charge a fee for responding to a request under this section, unless the state department mails the state department's response.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1.5-18(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.56-2023, SEC.278.
Ind. Code § 31-34-11-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-34-11-4
Judgment entry; continuance; release from juvenile detention facility pending entry of judgment
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) Except as provided in subsection (b), at the close of all the evidence and before judgment is entered, the court may continue the case for not more than twelve (12) months.

(b) If the:

(1) child;

(2) child's parent, guardian, or custodian; or

(3) department;

requests that judgment be entered, the judgment shall be entered not later than thirty (30) days after the request is made.

(c) If the child is in a juvenile detention facility, the child shall be released not later than forty-eight (48) hours, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, pending the entry of judgment. A child released from a juvenile detention facility pending the entry of judgment may be detained in a shelter care facility.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.35-1998, SEC.7; P.L.146-2006, SEC.47.
Ind. Code § 31-26-4-2.1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-26-4-2.1
"Commission"
Status: in_force

Effective 7-1-2027.

Sec. 2.1. As used in this chapter, "commission" refers to the commission on improving the status of children in Indiana established by IC 2-5-36-3.

As added by P.L.152-2026, SEC.453.
Ind. Code § 31-12-3-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 12 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-12-3-1
Establishment
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. Any court that exercises jurisdiction over domestic relations cases may establish a family relations division of the court.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25-13 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-19-25-13
Fee for expenses
Status: in_force

Sec. 13. (a) The following persons may charge a reasonable fee for actual expenses incurred in complying with this chapter:

(1) A licensed child placing agency.

(2) The court.

(3) The department.

(4) A local office.

(5) A professional health care provider.

(6) The Indiana department of health, except as provided in subsection (b).

(b) The Indiana department of health may not charge a fee for filing a contact preference form under this chapter.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-4.5-6 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.263; P.L.128-2012, SEC.79; P.L.3-2016, SEC.23; P.L.56-2023, SEC.291.
Ind. Code § 31-34-12-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-34-12-1
Burden of proof of delinquent act or crime
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. A finding by a juvenile court that a child committed a delinquent act, or that an adult committed a crime must be based upon proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-13(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-2-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-18.5-2-9
Credit for payments
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. An Indiana tribunal shall credit amounts collected for a particular period under any child support order against the amounts owed for the same period under any other child support order for support of the same child issued by an Indiana tribunal or a tribunal of another state or a foreign country.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-37-12-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-37-12-8
Procedure following admission of allegations by child
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. If a child admits the allegations of a petition, the juvenile court shall do the following:

(1) Enter judgment accordingly.

(2) Schedule a dispositional hearing.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-27-4-27 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-27-4-27
Repealed
Status: repealed

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Repealed by P.L.146-2006, SEC.60.
Ind. Code § 31-19-19-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-19-19-4
Confidentiality of adoption papers, records, and information; disclosure procedures
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. All papers, records, and information pertaining to the adoption, whether part of:

(1) the permanent record of the court; or

(2) a file in:

(A) the division of vital records;

(B) the department or local office;

(C) a licensed child placing agency; or

(D) a professional health care provider (as defined in IC 34-6-2.1-165);

are confidential and may be disclosed only in accordance with IC 31-19-2.5-3, IC 31-19-17, this chapter, or IC 31-19-20 through IC 31-19-25.5.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-4-25.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.1-1998, SEC.159; P.L.100-2005, SEC.7; P.L.145-2006, SEC.255; P.L.191-2011, SEC.21; P.L.128-2012, SEC.64; P.L.186-2025, SEC.152; P.L.116-2026, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-34-9-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-34-9-3
Petition; verification and contents
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. A petition must:

(1) be verified;

(2) be entitled "In the Matter of ________, a Child Alleged to be a Child in Need of Services";

(3) be signed and filed by the person representing the interests of the state; and

(4) contain the following information:

(A) A citation to the provision of the juvenile law that gives the juvenile court jurisdiction in the proceeding.

(B) A citation to the provision of the juvenile law that defines a child in need of services.

(C) A concise statement of the facts upon which the allegations are based, including the date and location at which the alleged facts occurred.

(D) The child's:

(i) name;

(ii) birth date; and

(iii) residence address;

if known.

(E) The name and residence address of the child's parent, guardian, or custodian if known.

(F) The name and title of the person signing the petition.

(G) A statement indicating whether the child has been removed from the child's parent, guardian, or custodian, and, if so, a description of the following:

(i) Efforts made to provide the child or the child's parent, guardian, or custodian with family services before the removal.

(ii) Reasons why family services were not provided before the removal of the child if family services were not provided.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-10(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17.
Ind. Code § 31-14-5-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-14-5-1
Verification of petition; caption
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. Each petition in a paternity action must:

(1) be verified; and

(2) be captioned "In the Matter of the Paternity of ________".

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-5.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25.5-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25.5 / Section 31-19-25.5-9
Withdrawal of request or consent
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. A person may withdraw a:

(1) request by the person submitted under section 2 of this chapter; or

(2) consent by the person for the release of information under this chapter;

by submitting to the state registrar a statement signed by the person withdrawing the request or consent.

As added by P.L.191-2011, SEC.55.
Ind. Code § 31-27-5-14 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-27-5-14
Duration of license; limitations; renewal; public display
Status: in_force

Sec. 14. (a) A license for a group home expires four (4) years after the date of issuance, unless the license is revoked or voluntarily returned.

(b) A license issued under this chapter:

(1) is not transferable;

(2) applies only to the licensee and the location stated in the application; and

(3) remains the property of the department.

(c) A current license shall be publicly displayed.

(d) If a licensee submits a timely application for renewal, the current license remains in effect until the department issues a license or denies the application.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.146-2006, SEC.35; P.L.128-2012, SEC.120.
Ind. Code § 31-17-2-23 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-17-2-23
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-21.1.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9. Amended by P.L.96-1999, SEC.10; P.L.68-2005, SEC.36. Repealed by P.L.50-2006, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-162 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-162
"Monitor"
Status: in_force

Sec. 162. "Monitor", for purposes of IC 31-27, means observation to determine the licensee's continuing compliance with IC 31-27.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-39-8-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-39-8-1
Application of chapter
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. This chapter applies only to records created as a result of allegations that a child is a delinquent child or a child in need of services.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-8-2(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.22.
Ind. Code § 31-19-4.5-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 4.5 / Section 31-19-4.5-3
Form of adoption notice
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Notice of the adoption proceeding shall be given to a person entitled to notice under section 2 of this chapter in substantially the following form:

"NOTICE OF ADOPTION

________ (person's name) is notified that a petition for adoption of a child, named __________ (child's name, if named), born to __________ (mother's name) on __________ (date) was filed in the office of the clerk of __________ court, __________ (address of the court). The petition for adoption alleges that the consent to adoption of __________ (person's name) is not required because _________________________ (provide a brief description of the reason(s) the consent is not required).

If __________ (person's name) seeks to contest the adoption of the child, __________ (person's name) must file a motion to contest the adoption in accordance with IC 31-19-10-1 in the above named court not later than fifteen (15) days after the date of service of this notice.

If __________ (person's name) does not file a motion to contest the adoption within fifteen (15) days after service of this notice the above named court will hear and determine the petition for adoption. The consent to adoption of __________ (person's name) will be irrevocably implied and __________ (person's name) will lose the right to contest either the adoption or the validity of __________'s (person's name) implied consent to the adoption.

No statement made to __________ (person's name) relieves __________ (person's name) of __________'s (person's name) obligations under this notice.

This notice complies with IC 31-19-4.5-3 but does not exhaustively set forth a person's legal obligations under the Indiana adoption statutes. A person being served with this notice should consult the Indiana adoption statutes.".

As added by P.L.61-2003, SEC.10. Amended by P.L.113-2017, SEC.4; P.L.244-2023, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-19-2.5-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 2.5 / Section 31-19-2.5-2
Notice of adoption
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) Except as provided in subsection (b), IC 31-19-4 applies to notice given to a putative father and IC 31-19-4.5 applies to notice given to other persons.

(b) If a petition for adoption alleges the consent of a putative father or a parent to the adoption has not been obtained and is unnecessary under:

(1) IC 31-19-9-8(a)(1);

(2) IC 31-19-9-8(a)(2);

(3) IC 31-19-9-8(a)(4)(B);

(4) IC 31-19-9-8(a)(4)(C);

(5) IC 31-19-9-8(a)(9); or

(6) IC 31-19-9-8(a)(11);

notice must be given under IC 31-19-4.5.

As added by P.L.61-2003, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-3-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-18.5-3-11
Pleadings and accompanying documents
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. (a) In a proceeding under this article, a petitioner seeking to establish a support order, to determine parentage of a child, or to register and modify a support order of a tribunal of another state or a foreign country must file a petition. Unless otherwise ordered under section 12 of this chapter, the petition or accompanying documents must provide, so far as known, the name, residential address, and Social Security numbers of the obligor and the obligee or the parent and alleged parent, and the name, sex, residential address, Social Security number, and date of birth of each child for whose benefit support is sought or whose parentage is to be determined. Unless filed at the time of registration, the petition must be accompanied by a copy of any support order known to have been issued by another tribunal. The petition may include any other information that may assist in locating or identifying the respondent.

(b) The petition must specify the relief sought. The petition and accompanying documents must conform substantially with the requirements imposed by the forms mandated by federal law for use in cases filed by a support enforcement agency.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-37-10-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-37-10-7
Parties
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. The:

(1) child;

(2) child's parent, guardian, or custodian; and

(3) prosecuting attorney;

are parties to the proceedings described in the juvenile law and have all rights of parties provided under the Indiana Rules of Trial Procedure.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-32-3-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-32-3-2
Persons ineligible for appointment
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. A court may not appoint a party to the proceedings, an employee of a party to the proceedings, or a representative of a party to the proceedings 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 involved in the proceedings.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-26-4-15 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-26-4-15
Annual report
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. 15. Before October 1 of each year, the board shall prepare a report concerning the program established by this chapter for the public and the general assembly. A report prepared under this section for the general assembly must be in an electronic format under IC 5-14-6.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.272.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-225 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-225
"Services"
Status: in_force

Sec. 225. "Services", for purposes of IC 31-40-1, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-40-1-1.5.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-2-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-18.5-2-11
Continuing, exclusive jurisdiction to modify spousal support order
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. (a) An Indiana tribunal issuing a spousal support order consistent with Indiana law has continuing, exclusive jurisdiction to modify the spousal support order throughout the existence of the support obligation.

(b) An Indiana tribunal may not modify a spousal support order issued by a tribunal of another state or a foreign country having continuing, exclusive jurisdiction over that order under the law of that state or foreign country.

(c) An Indiana tribunal that has continuing, exclusive jurisdiction over a spousal support order may serve as:

(1) an initiating tribunal to request a tribunal of another state to enforce the spousal support order issued in Indiana; or

(2) a responding tribunal to enforce or modify its own spousal support order.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-35-1-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-35-1-2
Law governing proceedings
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. Proceedings under this chapter are governed by the procedures prescribed by:

(1) IC 31-32-1, IC 31-32-4 through IC 31-32-10, and IC 31-32-12 through IC 31-32-15;

(2) IC 31-34; and

(3) IC 31-37;

but are distinct from proceedings under IC 31-34 and IC 31-37.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-5-1 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-37-19-6.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-37-19-6.5-b
Placement prohibited in residence of individual who has committed certain acts or offenses; criminal history check; exceptions; considerations
Status: in_force

Note: This version of section amended by P.L.158-2026, SEC.30. See also preceding version of this section amended by P.L.145-2026, SEC.215.

Sec. 6.5. (a) Except as provided in subsection (d), the juvenile court may not enter a dispositional decree approving placement of a child in another home under section 1(a)(3) or 6(b)(2)(D) of this chapter or awarding wardship to a person or facility that results in a placement with a person under section 1(a)(4) or 6(b)(2)(E) of this chapter if a person who is currently residing in the home in which the child would be placed under section 1(a)(3), 1(a)(4), 6(b)(2)(D), or 6(b)(2)(E) of this chapter has committed an act resulting in a substantiated report of child abuse or neglect, has a juvenile adjudication for an act that would be a nonwaivable offense, as defined in IC 31-9-2-84.8 if committed by an adult, or has a conviction for a nonwaivable offense, as defined in IC 31-9-2-84.8.

(b) The juvenile probation officer who prepared the predispositional report shall conduct a criminal history check (as defined in IC 31-9-2-22.5) to determine if a person described in subsection (a) has committed an act resulting in a substantiated report of child abuse or neglect, has a juvenile adjudication for an act that would be a nonwaivable offense, as defined in IC 31-9-2-84.8 if committed by an adult, or has a conviction for a nonwaivable offense, as defined in IC 31-9-2-84.8. However, the probation officer is not required to conduct a criminal history check under this section if criminal history information obtained under IC 31-37-17-6.1 establishes whether a person described in subsection (a) has committed an act resulting in a substantiated report of child abuse or neglect, has a juvenile adjudication for an act that would be a nonwaivable offense, as defined in IC 31-9-2-84.8 if committed by an adult, or has a conviction for a nonwaivable offense, as defined in IC 31-9-2-84.8.

(c) The juvenile probation officer is not required to conduct a criminal history check under this section if:

(1) the probation officer is considering only an out-of-home placement to an entity or a facility that:

(A) is not a residence (as defined in IC 3-5-2.1-90); or

(B) is licensed by the state; or

(2) placement under this section is undetermined at the time the predispositional report is prepared.

(d) The juvenile court may enter a dispositional decree approving placement of a child in another home under section 1(a)(3) or 6(b)(2)(D) of this chapter or awarding wardship to a person or facility that results in a placement with a person under section 1(a)(4) or 6(b)(2)(E) of this chapter if:

(1) a person described in subsection (a) has:

(A) committed an act resulting in a substantiated report of child abuse or neglect;

(B) been convicted of:

(i) a felony under IC 9-30-5;

(ii) battery (IC 35-42-2-1);

(iii) criminal recklessness (IC 35-42-2-2) as a felony;

(iv) criminal confinement (IC 35-42-3-3) as a felony;

(v) arson (IC 35-43-1-1) as a felony;

(vi) nonsupport of a dependent child (IC 35-46-1-5);

(vii) operating a motorboat while intoxicated (IC 35-46-9-6) (before its repeal) as a felony;

(viii) a felony involving a weapon under IC 35-47; or

(ix) a felony relating to controlled substances under IC 35-48-4;

if the conviction did not occur within the past five (5) years; or

(C) had a juvenile adjudication for a nonwaivable offense, as defined in IC 31-9-2-84.8 that, if committed by an adult, would be a felony; and

(2) the person's commission of the offense, delinquent act, or act of abuse or neglect described in subdivision (1) is not relevant to the person's present ability to care for a child, and placing the child in another home is in the best interest of the child.

However, a court may not enter a dispositional decree placing a child in another home under section 1(a)(3) or 6(b)(2)(D) of this chapter or awarding wardship to a person or facility under this subsection if a person with whom the child is or will be placed has been convicted of a nonwaivable offense, as defined in IC 31-9-2-84.8 that is not specifically excluded under subdivision (1)(B).

(e) In considering the placement under subsection (d), the court shall consider the following:

(1) The length of time since the person committed the offense, delinquent act, or act that resulted in the substantiated report of abuse or neglect.

(2) The severity of the offense, delinquent act, or abuse or neglect.

(3) Evidence of the person's rehabilitation, including the person's cooperation with a treatment plan, if applicable.

As added by P.L.70-2004, SEC.27. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.187; P.L.145-2006, SEC.347; P.L.1-2007, SEC.209; P.L.146-2008, SEC.652; P.L.162-2011, SEC.55; P.L.158-2013, SEC.329; P.L.65-2016, SEC.19; P.L.183-2017, SEC.57; P.L.243-2019, SEC.20; P.L.142-2020, SEC.47; P.L.186-2025, SEC.163; P.L.158-2026, SEC.30.
Ind. Code § 31-35-1.5-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 1.5 / Section 31-35-1.5-7
Verification of notice publication
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) The person whose duty it was to cause the publication under section 6 of this chapter or IC 31-19-2.5-6 shall file an affidavit of publication in the clerk's office.

(b) The affidavit described in subsection (a) must:

(1) be attached to a copy of the notice taken from the newspaper or website in which the notice was published;

(2) be the affidavit of a person who:

(A) is employed by the entity that published the notice; and

(B) is at least eighteen (18) years of age; and

(3) specify the county, the date, and the newspaper or website in which the notice was published.

As added by P.L.45-2023, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-65 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-65
"Council"
Status: in_force

Sec. 65. "Council", for purposes of IC 31-31-9, refers to the city-county council of the consolidated city within the county.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-34-21-5.8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-34-21-5.8
Certain reasonable efforts required if preservation and reunification inconsistent with permanency plan; progress reports, case reviews, and postdispositional hearings not required
Status: in_force

Sec. 5.8. (a) This section applies only if a court has approved a permanency plan for a child under section 7(b)(5) of this chapter.

(b) If the continuation of reasonable efforts to preserve and reunify a child in need of services with the child's family is inconsistent with the child's permanency plan, the department shall make reasonable efforts to:

(1) with court approval place the child in an out-of-home placement in accordance with the permanency plan; and

(2) complete whatever steps are necessary to finalize the permanent placement of the child in a timely manner.

(c) This subsection applies whenever the child's approved permanency plan under section 7 of this chapter is placement of the child for adoption or another planned, permanent living arrangement. Periodic progress reports, case reviews, and postdispositional hearings to determine whether or the extent to which the following have occurred are not required:

(1) Whether reasonable efforts have been made to eliminate the need for removal of the child from the child's home or to make it possible for the child to safely return to the child's home.

(2) Whether the child is placed in close proximity to the home of the child's parent, guardian, or custodian.

As added by P.L.35-1998, SEC.15. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.321; P.L.162-2011, SEC.51.
Ind. Code § 31-16-2-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-16-2-5
Service of petition and summons
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. Whenever a petition is filed, a copy of the petition, including a copy of a summons, shall be served upon the person alleged to be responsible for child support in the same manner as service of summons in civil actions generally.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-5 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-27-5-13 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-27-5-13
Investigation of unlicensed premises
Status: in_force

Sec. 13. The department shall investigate any premises that the department has reason to believe are being used for child care without a license in circumstances where a license is required.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-34-10-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-34-10-3
Appointment of guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Before complying with the other requirements of this chapter, the juvenile court shall first determine whether the following conditions make it appropriate to appoint a guardian ad litem or a court appointed special advocate, or both, for the child:

(1) If the child is alleged to be a child in need of services:

(A) under IC 31-34-1-6;

(B) under IC 31-34-1-10 or IC 31-34-1-11;

(C) due to the inability, refusal, or neglect of the child's parent, guardian, or custodian to supply the child with the necessary medical care; or

(D) because the location of both of the child's parents is unknown;

the court shall appoint a guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate, or both, for the child.

(2) If the child is alleged to be a child in need of services under:

(A) IC 31-34-1-1;

(B) IC 31-34-1-2;

(C) IC 31-34-1-3;

(D) IC 31-34-1-3.5;

(E) IC 31-34-1-4;

(F) IC 31-34-1-5;

(G) IC 31-34-1-7; or

(H) IC 31-34-1-8;

the court shall appoint a guardian ad litem, court appointed special advocate, or both, for the child.

(3) If the parent, guardian, or custodian of a child denies the allegations of a petition under section 6 of this chapter, the court shall appoint a guardian ad litem, court appointed special advocate, or both, for the child.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-13.6(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.180; P.L.46-2016, SEC.10; P.L.183-2017, SEC.43; P.L.86-2018, SEC.220.
Ind. Code § 31-37-19-17.4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-37-19-17.4
Court may order a delinquent child to receive counseling
Status: in_force

Sec. 17.4. (a) This section applies if a child is a delinquent child under IC 31-37-1 due to the commission of a delinquent act that, if committed by an adult, would be an offense relating to a criminal sexual act (as defined in IC 35-31.5-2-216).

(b) The juvenile court may, in addition to any other order or decree the court makes under this chapter, order:

(1) the child; and

(2) the child's parent or guardian;

to receive psychological counseling as directed by the court, subject to the applicable provisions of IC 31-37-17-1.4 and IC 31-37-18-9.

As added by P.L.70-2004, SEC.28. Amended by P.L.125-2007, SEC.3; P.L.146-2008, SEC.653; P.L.114-2012, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-27-5-26 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-27-5-26
Cessation of operation upon revocation of license
Status: in_force

Sec. 26. A group home shall cease operation when the license of the group home is revoked.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-30-1-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 30 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-30-1-11
Transfer from court having criminal jurisdiction; release on recognizance; detention
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. (a) Except as provided in section 9 of this chapter, if a court having criminal jurisdiction determines that a defendant is alleged to have committed a crime before the defendant is eighteen (18) years of age, the court shall immediately transfer the case, together with certified copies of all papers, documents, and testimony, to the juvenile court. The juvenile court shall proceed as if it had received a referral under IC 31-37-8.

(b) The court having criminal jurisdiction shall release the child on the child's own recognizance or to the child's parent, guardian, or custodian upon that person's written promise to bring the child before the juvenile court at a specified time. However, the court may order the child detained if the court finds probable cause to believe that the child committed an act that would be a crime if committed by an adult and that:

(1) the child is unlikely to appear before the juvenile court for subsequent proceedings;

(2) detention is essential to protect the child or the community;

(3) the parent, guardian, or custodian:

(A) cannot be located; or

(B) is unable or unwilling to take custody of the child; or

(4) the child has a reasonable basis for requesting that he or she not be released.

If the child is detained for a reason specified by subdivision (3) or (4), the child must be detained in accordance with IC 31-37-7-1.

(c) If the child is not released, the child shall be delivered to a place designated by the juvenile court. The court having criminal jurisdiction shall promptly notify the child's parent, guardian, or custodian and an intake officer of where the child is being held and the reasons for the child's detention.

(d) A child transferred to the juvenile court under this section (or IC 31-6-2-2 before its repeal) may not be released on bail.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-16-15-23 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-16-15-23
Liability of income payors
Status: in_force

Sec. 23. (a) If an income payor fails to forward the money required by an income withholding order, the Title IV-D agency shall send the income payor, by certified mail, a notice of failure to comply. If the income payor fails to forward the money required by an income withholding order within thirty (30) days after receipt of the notice of failure to comply, the income payor is liable for the amount the income payor fails to forward.

(b) An income payor described in subsection (a) is liable to the:

(1) obligee for the amount of income not paid in compliance with the income withholding order, including an amount the obligor is required to pay for health insurance coverage; and

(2) obligor for:

(A) the amount of income withheld and not paid as required under the income withholding order;

(B) an amount equal to the interest that accrues according to the interest percentage that accrues on judgments; and

(C) reasonable attorney's fees and court costs.

(c) An income payor that:

(1) receives an income withholding order from a court or Title IV-D agency; and

(2) fails to comply with the income withholding order;

may be liable for contempt of court.

(d) If an obligor has filed a claim for worker's compensation, the income payor of the obligor shall send a copy of the income withholding order to the income payor's insurance carrier if the income payor has an insurance carrier with whom the claim has been filed in order to continue the ordered withholding of income.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-2-10-19.1.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.103-2007, SEC.39.
Ind. Code § 31-19-9-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-19-9-9
Parent's crime against child's other parent; effect on consent requirement
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. A court shall determine that consent to adoption is not required from a parent if the:

(1) 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); or

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

(2) victim of the crime is the child's other parent; and

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

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.142-2020, SEC.36.
Ind. Code § 31-31-2-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 31 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-31-2-3
Other costs prohibited
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Except as provided in sections 1 and 2 of this chapter, no other costs may be charged to any person in any proceeding in the juvenile court.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.14.
Ind. Code § 31-27-4-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-27-4-8
Supervision and care limits; exceptions
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. (a) An applicant may not provide supervision and care as a foster family home if more than:

(1) six (6) individuals, each of whom:

(A) is less than eighteen (18) years of age; or

(B) is at least eighteen (18) years of age and is receiving care and supervision under an order of a juvenile court; or

(2) four (4) individuals less than six (6) years of age;

including the children or individuals for whom the provider is a relative, guardian, or custodian, receive care and supervision at the facility at the same time.

(b) Not more than four (4) of the six (6) individuals in subsection (a)(1) may be less than six (6) years of age.

(c) The department may grant an exception to this section whenever the department determines that:

(1) the placement of siblings in the same foster family home is desirable;

(2) a foster child has an established, meaningful relationship with the foster parents;

(3) the:

(A) child is being placed in the foster family home for a second or subsequent time under IC 31-34-23-5;

(B) placement would not cause the foster family home to be out of compliance with federal law; and

(C) department determines that the placement would not present a safety risk for the child or for any other resident of the foster family home; or

(4) it is otherwise in the foster child's best interests.

(d) If a foster family home does not meet the requirements under subsection (a) on July 1, 2011, any foster child placed in the home prior to July 1, 2011, may remain placed. However, a new placement of a child may not be made in violation of this section.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.143-2008, SEC.9; P.L.162-2011, SEC.30; P.L.48-2012, SEC.30; P.L.123-2014, SEC.14; P.L.12-2018, SEC.1; P.L.210-2019, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-40-6-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 40 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-40-6-2
Establishment of competitive grant program
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) The juvenile behavioral health competitive grant program may be established, subject to available funding.

(b) The program shall be administered by the Indiana criminal justice institute (as described in IC 5-2-6).

As added by P.L.101-2022, SEC.32. Amended by P.L.122-2025, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-11-4-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-11-4-6
Proof of birth date
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. Each individual who applies for a marriage license must submit to the clerk of the circuit court documentary proof of the individual's age, in the form of:

(1) a:

(A) certified copy of the individual's birth certificate;

(B) copy of a birth record; or

(C) certification of birth issued by the Indiana department of health, a local registrar of vital statistics, or another public office charged with similar duties under the law of another state, territory, or country;

(2) a certified copy of a judicial decree issued under IC 34-28-1 (or IC 34-4-3 before its repeal) that establishes the date of the individual's birth;

(3) a passport;

(4) a valid driver's license or other identification that is issued by a state or another governmental entity and that contains the individual's date of birth and current address;

(5) an immigration or naturalization record showing the individual's date of birth;

(6) a United States selective service card or armed forces record showing the individual's date of birth; or

(7) a:

(A) court record; or

(B) document or record issued by a governmental entity;

showing the individual's date of birth.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-3-4.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3. Amended by P.L.1-1998, SEC.158; P.L.94-2020, SEC.8; P.L.111-2021, SEC.97; P.L.56-2023, SEC.254.
Ind. Code § 31-19-26.5-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 26.5 / Section 31-19-26.5-1
"Adoption subsidy"
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. As used in this chapter, "adoption subsidy" means payments by the department to an adoptive parent of a child with special needs to assist with the cost of care of the child:

(1) after a final decree of adoption of the child has been entered under IC 31-19-11; and

(2) during the time the child is residing with and supported by the adoptive parent or parents.

As added by P.L.146-2008, SEC.562.
Ind. Code § 31-16-15-4.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-16-15-4.5
National Medical Support Notice
Status: in_force

Sec. 4.5. (a) The bureau shall send notice to an employer, using the National Medical Support Notice described in 45 CFR 303.32, that:

(1) a parent ordered to pay support has been ordered to provide insurance coverage as part of the parent's employee benefit plan under IC 31-16-6-4; or

(2) an obligation to provide insurance coverage under subdivision (1) is no longer in effect.

(b) Upon receipt of the notice under subsection (a), the employer shall:

(1) respond to the notice in a timely fashion;

(2) transfer the National Medical Support Notice to the employer's health insurance plan within twenty (20) days after the date of the National Medical Support Notice; and

(3) abide by the terms of establishing insurance coverage as required by the notice.

As added by P.L.86-2002, SEC.12. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.239; P.L.103-2007, SEC.30; P.L.80-2010, SEC.40.
Ind. Code § 31-14-13-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-14-13-12
Submissions to the court; court requests for information
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. (a) If a person files a petition to establish or modify custody of a child, any person who:

(1) is a party to the custody proceeding; and

(2) has knowledge that:

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

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

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

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

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

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

As added by P.L.239-2013, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-37-13-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-37-13-3
Discharge of child
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. If the court finds that a child is not a delinquent child, the court shall discharge the child.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-28-5-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 28 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-28-5-3
Persons who may request sibling visitations; department establishment of sibling visitation; department's notice of findings
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) A child, a child's adoptive parent, a child's foster parent, a child's guardian ad litem, a court appointed special advocate, or an agency that has the legal responsibility or authorization to care for, treat, or supervise a child may request the department to permit the child to have visitation with the child's sibling if the child or the child's sibling, or both, receive foster care.

(b) If the department finds that the sibling visitation requested under subsection (a) is in the best interests of:

(1) the child, if the child receives foster care; and

(2) the child's sibling, if the child's sibling receives foster care;

the department shall permit the sibling visitation and establish a sibling visitation schedule.

(c) Not later than seven (7) business days after receiving a request under subsection (a), the department shall provide notice of the department's findings under subsection (b) to the individual or agency that made the request.

As added by P.L.133-2008, SEC.10. Amended by P.L.244-2023, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-19-21-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-19-21-5
Errors in execution of consent form
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. The state registrar may contact an adoptee or adoptive parent who submits a written consent under this chapter that is:

(1) incompletely; or

(2) inaccurately;

executed to inform the adoptee or adoptive parent regarding the error in the execution of the consent form.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-4-27(g).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.3-2016, SEC.10.
Ind. Code § 31-31-9-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 31 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-31-9-4
Admission to juvenile detention center
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. The executive committee, after soliciting the views of the advisory board described in section 8 of this chapter, shall establish criteria for admission to the juvenile detention center. The power to order admission to the center remains with the court.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-9.5-6(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.14. Amended by P.L.142-2007, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-34-21-7.7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-34-21-7.7
Permanency plan; guardianship; requirements and terms and conditions in order; jurisdiction
Status: in_force

Sec. 7.7. (a) If the juvenile court approves a permanency plan under section 7 of this chapter that provides for the appointment of a guardian for a child, the juvenile court may appoint a guardian of the person and administer a guardianship for the child under IC 29-3.

(b) If a guardianship of the person proceeding for the child is pending in a probate court, the probate court shall transfer the proceeding to the juvenile court.

(c) In creating a guardianship of a minor, a probate or juvenile court may include in an order the requirements and terms and conditions described in IC 29-3-8-9(a).

(d) If the juvenile court closes a child in need of services case after creating a guardianship, the juvenile court order creating the guardianship survives the closure of the child in need of services case.

(e) If the juvenile court closes the child in need of services case after creating a guardianship, the probate court may assume or reassume jurisdiction of the guardianship and take further action as necessary.

As added by P.L.217-2001, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.162-2011, SEC.52.
Ind. Code § 31-21-6-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-21-6-10
Service of petition
Status: in_force

Sec. 10. Except as otherwise provided in section 13 or 14 of this chapter, the petition and order must be served, by a method authorized by Indiana law, on the respondent and any person who has physical custody of the child.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-148 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-148
"Law"
Status: in_force

Sec. 148. "Law", 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 § 31-14-13-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-14-13-8
Custody modification proceeding; violation of injunction or temporary restraining order as factor
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. An intentional violation by a custodial parent of an injunction or a temporary restraining order issued under IC 31-14-15 (or IC 31-6-6.1-12.1 before its repeal) may be considered a relevant factor under section 2 of this chapter that the court must consider in a proceeding for a custody modification under this chapter.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-12.1(f).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-39-4-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-39-4-4
Party or party's attorney in juvenile court proceedings
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) The records of a law enforcement agency are available, without specific permission from the head of the agency, to any party to a juvenile court proceeding and the party's attorney. However, a:

(1) child excluded from a hearing by IC 31-32-6 may be denied access to records pertaining to that subject matter; and

(2) person who was denied access to a predispositional report or the records for a dispositional hearing may be denied access to that subject matter.

(b) The party and the party's attorney may only review the records applicable to the proceeding in which the person is a party.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.22.
Ind. Code § 31-16-15-2.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-16-15-2.5
Income withholding order issued by Title IV-D agency; implementation
Status: in_force

Sec. 2.5. (a) If, in a Title IV-D case, an income withholding order has not been issued with a support order under section 0.5 of this chapter, a Title IV-D agency shall:

(1) issue an income withholding order as required under IC 31-25-4-17 unless the court has stayed the implementation of the income withholding order under section 0.5(c) of this chapter; and

(2) provide notice under section 3.5 of this chapter to the obligor.

(b) In a Title IV-D case in which the implementation of an income withholding order was stayed under section 0.5(c) of this chapter, the Title IV-D agency shall:

(1) provide notice under section 3.5 of this chapter and lift the stay by issuing an income withholding order if the obligor's child support and arrearage payments are delinquent; or

(2) lift the stay by issuing an income withholding order if the obligor requests implementation of the income withholding order.

(c) In a Title IV-D case, if:

(1) an income withholding order was stayed under section 0.5(c) of this chapter; and

(2) an obligor requests the implementation of the income withholding order;

the Title IV-D agency is not required to give notice under section 3.5 of this chapter when implementing the income withholding order.

(d) An income withholding order issued under subsection (a) or (b):

(1) has the same force and effect; and

(2) is enforceable in the same manner;

as an income withholding order issued by a court.

(e) The total amount required to be withheld under an income withholding order implemented under this section is the sum of:

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

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

(3) an additional amount as determined under subsection (f) for:

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

(B) any additional arrearage that:

(i) has not been adjudicated; and

(ii) accrues since the last adjudication of arrearage by the court.

(f) If an obligor subject to an income withholding order is in arrears, unless otherwise ordered by a court, the Title IV-D agency or its agent may increase the weekly amount withheld as follows:

(1) If the arrearages are at least ten dollars ($10) and less than five hundred dollars ($500), an additional amount of up to ten dollars ($10).

(2) If the arrearages are at least five hundred dollars ($500) and less than three thousand dollars ($3,000), an additional amount of up to twenty dollars ($20).

(3) If the arrearages are at least three thousand dollars ($3,000) and less than five thousand dollars ($5,000), an additional amount of up to twenty-five dollars ($25).

(4) If the arrearages are at least five thousand dollars ($5,000) and less than ten thousand dollars ($10,000), an additional amount of up to thirty dollars ($30).

(5) If the arrearages are at least ten thousand dollars ($10,000) and less than fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000), an additional amount of up to thirty-five dollars ($35).

(6) If the arrearages are at least fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) and less than twenty thousand dollars ($20,000), an additional amount of up to forty dollars ($40).

(7) If the arrearages are at least twenty thousand dollars ($20,000) and less than twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000), an additional amount of up to forty-five dollars ($45).

(8) If the arrearages are at least twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000), an additional amount of up to fifty dollars ($50).

(g) A court is not bound by and is not required to consider the additional amounts described in subsection (f) when ordering, modifying, or enforcing periodic payments of child support.

As added by P.L.103-2007, SEC.25. Amended by P.L.123-2014, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-11-4-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-11-4-4
Application; sexually transmitted diseases acknowledgment; lifetime sex or violent offender; religious objections
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) An application for a marriage license must be written and verified. The application must contain the following information concerning each of the applicants:

(1) Full name.

(2) Birthplace.

(3) Residence.

(4) Age.

(5) Names of dependent children.

(6) Full name, including the maiden name of a mother, last known residence, and, if known, the place of birth of:

(A) the birth parents of the applicant if the applicant is not adopted; or

(B) the adoptive parents of the applicant if the applicant is adopted.

(7) Whether either of the applicants is a lifetime sex or violent offender, and, if an applicant is a lifetime sex or violent offender, the county and state in which the conviction was entered giving rise to the applicant's status as a lifetime sex or violent offender.

(8) A statement of facts necessary to determine whether any legal impediment to the proposed marriage exists.

(9) Except as provided in subsection (e), an acknowledgment that both applicants must sign, affirming that the applicants have received the information described in section 5 of this chapter, including a list of test sites for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The acknowledgment required by this subdivision must be in the following form:

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

I acknowledge that I have received information regarding serious communicable diseases that are sexually transmitted and a list of test sites for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

__________________________

____________

Signature of Applicant

Date

__________________________

____________

Signature of Applicant

Date

(b) The clerk of the circuit court shall record the application, including the license and certificate of marriage, in a book provided for that purpose. This book is a public record.

(c) The Indiana department of health shall develop uniform forms for applications for marriage licenses. The Indiana department of health shall furnish these forms to the circuit court clerks. The Indiana department of health may periodically revise these forms.

(d) The Indiana department of health shall require that the record of marriage form developed under subsection (c) must include each applicant's Social Security number. Any Social Security numbers collected on the record of marriage form shall be kept confidential and used only to carry out the purposes of the Title IV-D program. A person who knowingly or intentionally violates confidentiality regarding an applicant's Social Security numbers as described in this subsection commits a Class A infraction.

(e) Notwithstanding subsection (a), a person who objects on religious grounds is not required to:

(1) verify the application under subsection (a) by oath or affirmation; or

(2) sign the acknowledgment described in subsection (a)(9).

However, before the clerk of the circuit court may issue a marriage license to a member of the Old Amish Mennonite church, the bishop of that member must sign a statement that the information in the application is true.

(f) If a person objects on religious grounds to:

(1) verifying the application under subsection (a) by oath or affirmation; or

(2) signing the acknowledgment described in subsection (a)(9);

the clerk of the circuit court shall indicate that fact on the application for a marriage license.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3. Amended by P.L.213-1999, SEC.8; P.L.86-2002, SEC.5; P.L.244-2019, SEC.4; P.L.112-2020, SEC.57; P.L.56-2023, SEC.252.
Ind. Code § 31-16-16-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 16 / Section 31-16-16-6
Modification of obligor's duty to pay
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. (a) Except as provided in:

(1) subsection (b); or

(2) IC 31-14-19-1;

a court may not retroactively modify an obligor's duty to pay a delinquent support payment.

(b) A court with jurisdiction over a support order may modify an obligor's duty to pay a support payment that becomes due:

(1) after notice of the petition to modify the support order has been given either directly or through the appropriate agent to:

(A) the obligee; or

(B) if the obligee is the petitioner, the obligor; and

(2) before a final order concerning the petition for modification is entered.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-2-11-12.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-37-9-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-37-9-4
Notice, hearing, and order for compliance; contempt
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) Upon the filing of a petition for compliance and after notice and a hearing on the petition for compliance, the juvenile court may order the parent, guardian, or custodian of a child to participate in a program of informal adjustment implemented under section 1 of this chapter.

(b) A parent, guardian, or custodian who fails to participate in a program of informal adjustment ordered by the court may be found in contempt of court.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.146-2008, SEC.631.
Ind. Code § 31-14-20-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 20 / Section 31-14-20-2
Failure to register; effect on parental rights in adoption proceedings
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) A man who fails to register with the putative father registry as required by section 1 of this chapter waives the right to notice of an adoption of a child who is the subject of the paternity action:

(1) if the adoption is filed before the man establishes paternity; and

(2) in which the child's mother does not disclose to an attorney or agency arranging the adoption the name or address of the child's putative father.

(b) A waiver under this section constitutes the man's irrevocably implied consent to the child's adoption.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-2(e).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-27-5-17 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-27-5-17
Cooperation by licensees
Status: in_force

Sec. 17. A licensee shall cooperate with the department and any other state agency working on behalf of the department in carrying out the activities required by section 16 of this chapter, including permitting the department, the department of homeland security, or any other state agency working on behalf of the department to conduct announced or unannounced inspections.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.121; P.L.28-2026, SEC.46.
Ind. Code § 31-26-5-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-26-5-4
Family preservation services; delivery of services
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. Family preservation services must be delivered:

(1) only to families and in situations where the services may reasonably be expected to avoid out-of-home placement of the child; and

(2) to afford effective protection of the child, the family, and the community.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.272.
Ind. Code § 31-19-16.5-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 16.5 / Section 31-19-16.5-5
Vacation or modification of order; time; appointment of guardian ad litem or advocate
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. The court may vacate or modify a postadoption contact order entered under this chapter at any time after the adoption if the court determines, after a hearing, that it is in the best interests of the adopted child. Before hearing the petition to:

(1) vacate or modify; or

(2) compel compliance with;

the postadoption contact order, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate to represent and protect the best interests of the adopted child. However, the court may only appoint a guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate for the adopted child under this chapter if the interests of an adoptive parent differ from the child's interests to the extent that the court determines that the appointment is necessary to protect the best interests of the child.

As added by P.L.196-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-21-4-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-21-4-6
Depositions or testimony of a person residing in another state
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. An Indiana court may permit a person residing in another state to be deposed or to testify by:

(1) telephone;

(2) audiovisual means; or

(3) other electronic means;

before a designated court or another location in that state. An Indiana court shall cooperate with courts in other states in designating an appropriate location for the deposition or testimony.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-78 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-78
"Destitute child"
Status: in_force

Sec. 78. "Destitute child", for purposes of this title, means an individual:

(1) who is needy;

(2) who is not a public ward;

(3) who is less than eighteen (18) years of age;

(4) who has been deprived of parental support or care because of a parent's:

(A) death;

(B) continued absence from the home; or

(C) physical or mental incapacity;

(5) whose relatives liable for the individual's support are not able to provide adequate care or support for the individual without public assistance; and

(6) who is in need of foster care, under circumstances that do not require the individual to be made a public ward.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-17-2-21.3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-17-2-21.3
Parent's active duty service not a factor; temporary modification of custody
Status: in_force

Sec. 21.3. (a) A court may not consider a parent's absence or relocation due to active duty service as a factor in determining custody or permanently modifying a child custody order.

(b) If a court temporarily modifies a custody order due to a parent's active duty service, the order temporarily modifying the custody order terminates automatically not later than ten (10) days after the date the parent notifies the temporary custodian in writing that the parent has returned from active duty service. This subsection does not prevent a court from modifying a child custody order as provided under this article after a parent returns from active duty service.

As added by P.L.80-2010, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-11-4-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-11-4-10
Expiration of license
Status: in_force

Sec. 10. A marriage license expires sixty (60) days after the license is issued unless a marriage is solemnized under the license within that time.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-3-8.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-16-3.5-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 3.5 / Section 31-16-3.5-3
Forfeiture; use of proceeds
Status: in_force

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

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

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

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

As added by P.L.171-2001, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.68-2005, SEC.31.
Ind. Code § 31-34-1-17 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-34-1-17
Exception for referring to the child consistent with the child's biological sex
Status: in_force

Sec. 17. A child is not a child in need of services under any section of this chapter due to the child's parent, guardian, or custodian referring to and raising the child consistent with the child's biological sex.

As added by P.L.168-2025, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-31-8-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 31 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-31-8-1
Inapplicability of chapter to shelter care facilities operated by other governmental entities
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. This chapter does not apply to a shelter care facility operated by a governmental entity other than a juvenile court.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-9-5(e).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.14.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-3-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-18.5-3-5
Duties and powers of responding tribunal
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. (a) When a responding Indiana tribunal receives a petition or comparable pleading from an initiating tribunal or directly under section 1(b) of this chapter, it shall cause the petition or pleading to be filed and notify the petitioner where and when it was filed.

(b) A responding Indiana tribunal, to the extent not prohibited by other law, may do one (1) or more of the following:

(1) Establish or enforce a support order, modify a child support order, determine the controlling child support order, or determine parentage of a child.

(2) Order an obligor to comply with a support order, specifying the amount and the manner of compliance.

(3) Order income withholding.

(4) Determine the amount of any arrearages, and specify a method of payment.

(5) Enforce orders by civil or criminal contempt, or both.

(6) Set aside property for satisfaction of the support order.

(7) Place liens and order execution on the obligor's property.

(8) Order an obligor to keep the tribunal informed of the obligor's current residential address, electronic mail address, telephone number, income payor, address of employment, and telephone number at the place of employment.

(9) Issue a bench warrant for an obligor who has failed after proper notice to appear at a hearing ordered by the tribunal and enter the bench warrant in any local and state computer systems for criminal warrants.

(10) Order the obligor to seek appropriate employment by specified methods.

(11) Award reasonable attorney's fees and other fees and costs.

(12) Grant any other available remedy.

(c) A responding Indiana tribunal shall include in a support order issued under this article, or in the documents accompanying the order, the calculations on which the support order is based.

(d) A responding Indiana tribunal may not condition the payment of a support order issued under this article upon compliance by a party with provisions for visitation.

(e) If a responding Indiana tribunal issues an order under this article, the tribunal shall send a copy of the order to the:

(1) petitioner;

(2) respondent; and

(3) initiating tribunal, if any.

(f) If requested to enforce a support order, arrears, or judgment or modify a support order stated in a foreign currency, a responding Indiana tribunal shall convert the amount stated in the foreign currency to the equivalent amount in dollars under the applicable official or market exchange rate as publicly reported.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-33-8-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-33-8-8
Order for child's immediate removal; preparation of investigative report
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. (a) If, before the assessment is complete, the opinion of the law enforcement agency or the department is that immediate removal is necessary to protect the child from further abuse or neglect, the juvenile court may issue an order under IC 31-32-13.

(b) The department shall make a complete written report of the assessment.

(c) If a law enforcement agency participates in the assessment, the law enforcement agency shall also make a complete written report of the assessment.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.123; P.L.131-2009, SEC.47.
Ind. Code § 31-26-5-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-26-5-7
Employee completion of federally mandated background check
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) An employee of a provider of home based family preservation services shall undergo a background check to which the employee is required by federal law to submit for purposes of the employee's provision of child welfare services:

(1) not later than four (4) years after the individual's date of hire; and

(2) one (1) time every four (4) years thereafter.

(b) If an employee described in subsection (a) has completed the federally required background check to provide child welfare services, the employee is not required to complete a separate background check for providing additional child welfare services for the same employer.

As added by P.L.62-2026, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-16-17-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 17 / Section 31-16-17-6
Pleading; service of notice on defendant
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. Notice shall be served upon a defendant and issues shall be made upon the verified complaint as in other civil actions.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-2-9-3 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-37-26-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 26 / Section 31-37-26-1
Applicability
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) This chapter applies to a delinquency proceeding brought pursuant to IC 31-37-1 through IC 31-37-3.

(b) In computing time under this chapter, Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays are not included in the computation if the time prescribed is less than fifteen (15) days.

As added by P.L.157-2021, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-37-10-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-37-10-3
Petition; verification and contents
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. A petition must:

(1) be verified;

(2) be entitled "In the Matter of __________, a Child Alleged to be a Delinquent Child"; and

(3) contain the following information:

(A) A citation to the provision of the juvenile law that gives the juvenile court jurisdiction in the proceeding.

(B) A citation to the statute that the child is alleged to have violated.

(C) A concise statement of the facts upon which the allegations are based, including the date and location at which the alleged act occurred.

(D) The child's name, birth date, and residence address if known.

(E) The name and residence address of the child's parent, guardian, or custodian if known.

(F) The name and title of the person signing the petition.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-33-7-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-33-7-1
Arrangement for receipt of reports
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. The department shall arrange for receipt, on a twenty-four (24) hour, seven (7) day per week basis, of all reports under this article of suspected child abuse or neglect.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.108.
Ind. Code § 31-16-8-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-16-8-1
Modification or revocation of child support order or maintenance order
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) Provisions of an order with respect to child support or an order for maintenance (ordered under IC 31-16-7-1 or IC 31-1-11.5-9(c) before their repeal) may be modified or revoked.

(b) Except as provided in section 2 of this chapter, and subject to subsection (d), modification may be made only:

(1) upon a showing of changed circumstances so substantial and continuing as to make the terms unreasonable; or

(2) upon a showing that:

(A) a party has been ordered to pay an amount in child support that differs by more than twenty percent (20%) from the amount that would be ordered by applying the child support guidelines; and

(B) the order requested to be modified or revoked was issued at least twelve (12) months before the petition requesting modification was filed.

(c) Modification under this section is subject to IC 31-25-4-17(a)(6).

(d) Incarceration may constitute a change in circumstances so substantial and continuing as to make terms of an order unreasonable.

(e) For purposes of a petition to modify or revoke an order with respect to child support, the order described in subsection (b)(2)(B) refers only to an order in which:

(1) the amount of child support has been established or modified; or

(2) a petition to modify the child support order has been denied on the merits for a reason other than lack of timeliness.

The order described in subsection (b)(2)(B) does not include an order solely concerned with custody, parenting time, or other issues ancillary to the amount of child support, or an order that merely construes an existing order for child support, even if the order refers to or relates back to the order for child support.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-17(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.103-2007, SEC.19; P.L.94-2018, SEC.3; P.L.99-2019, SEC.1.
Ind. Code § 31-15-3-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-15-3-2
Cause of action established
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. A cause of action for legal separation is established.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-30-1-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 30 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-30-1-7
Juveniles tried as adults
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. A juvenile court has concurrent original jurisdiction in cases involving individuals who are subject to prosecution under IC 14-15-10-3.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-2-1.1(g).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-19-11-1.1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-19-11-1.1
Prohibited discrimination and considerations for petitions for adoption filed by persons with a disability
Status: in_force

Sec. 1.1. (a) As used in this section, "disability" has the meaning set forth in 42 U.S.C. 12102.

(b) A court, in determining whether to grant a petition for adoption:

(1) shall not discriminate against; and

(2) shall take into consideration the provision of reasonable accommodations to;

a petitioner who is a person with a disability, as provided under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794), Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12131 through 42 U.S.C. 12134), and other applicable state and federal law.

As added by P.L.146-2021, SEC.10.
Ind. Code § 31-28-2-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 28 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-28-2-1
Application
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. This chapter applies to children who receive foster care that is funded by the department.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.274. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.144.
Ind. Code § 31-30-1-0.3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 30 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-30-1-0.3
Transfer of guardianship matters to juvenile court
Status: in_force

Sec. 0.3. On July 1, 2001, all guardianship of the person matters:

(1) that are pending in a court other than a juvenile court; and

(2) over which a juvenile court has exclusive original jurisdiction under this chapter, as amended by P.L.217-2001;

shall be transferred to the juvenile court. A matter transferred under this section shall be treated as if it were originally filed in the juvenile court.

As added by P.L.220-2011, SEC.510.
Ind. Code § 31-21-6-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-21-6-2
Enforcement of a child custody determination made in another state; remedies
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) An Indiana court shall recognize and enforce a child custody determination of a court of another state if the court of another state exercised jurisdiction in substantial conformity with this article or the determination:

(1) was made under factual circumstances meeting the jurisdictional standards of this article; and

(2) has not been modified in accordance with this article.

(b) An Indiana court may use a remedy available under any other Indiana law to enforce a child custody determination made by a court of another state. The remedies provided in this article:

(1) are cumulative; and

(2) do not affect the availability of other remedies to enforce a child custody determination.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-12-4-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 12 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-12-4-2
Domestic relations counseling bureau fund
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) If a judge or group of judges issues an order under section 1 of this chapter to charge a domestic relations counseling fee, the judge must also adopt by court rule a schedule of fees. The schedule of fees is not effective until approved by the county fiscal body in accordance with this chapter.

(b) Upon request of a judge or group of judges that issued an order under section 1 of this chapter, the county fiscal body may adopt an ordinance to create a county domestic relations counseling bureau fund to fund the services of a domestic relations court and a domestic relations counseling bureau.

(c) If the county fiscal body creates a domestic relations counseling bureau fund, any fees collected by the domestic relations counseling bureau shall be deposited in the fund.

(d) The fund shall be administered by the judge or group of judges who are signatories to the order described in section 1 of this chapter.

(e) The expenses of administering the fund shall be paid from the money in the fund.

(f) Any money in the fund at the end of a fiscal year does not revert to the county general fund.

(g) The county fiscal body may appropriate money from the domestic relations counseling bureau fund to support the domestic relations counseling bureau. However, a county fiscal body may not transfer funds that have been previously appropriated to the budget of the domestic relations counseling bureau as a consequence of an appropriation from the domestic relations counseling bureau fund.

As added by P.L.80-2006, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-19-24-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 24 / Section 31-19-24-3
Requirements of court; order to confidential intermediary
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Whenever the court appoints a confidential intermediary under section 2(2) of this chapter, the court shall do the following:

(1) Consider:

(A) the highly emotional and personal issues relating to adoption;

(B) the privacy rights of both birth parents, adoptees, and pre-adoptive siblings;

(C) the reasons the medical, identifying, or nonidentifying information is being sought under section 1 of this chapter; and

(D) any irreparable harm to a birth parent, an adoptee, or a pre-adoptive sibling that may arise if appropriate consideration is not given to the issues described in clauses (A) through (C).

(2) Provide the confidential intermediary with an order authorizing the confidential intermediary to search certain records that may include:

(A) the division of public health statistics;

(B) the department or local office;

(C) any licensed child placing agency; or

(D) any professional health care provider (as defined in IC 34-6-2.1-165).

An order under this subdivision must specify the information to be sought by the confidential intermediary.

(3) Specify the direct contact, if any, that a confidential intermediary may have with any person from whom the medical, identifying, or nonidentifying information is being sought, such as providing that the confidential intermediary may only inform the person of the existence of the adoption history program administered by the state registrar under IC 31-19-18 through IC 31-19-23, this chapter, IC 31-19-25, and IC 31-19-25.5.

(4) Specify the limitations, if any, that the court considers necessary to prevent the confidential intermediary's search under this chapter from resulting in harm to a birth parent, an adoptee, or a pre-adoptive sibling.

(5) Require the confidential intermediary to affirm under oath that the confidential intermediary agrees to act in good faith and perform its responsibilities in accordance with sections 2 through 9 of this chapter.

(6) Instruct the confidential intermediary to act as quickly as possible.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.196-1997, SEC.14; P.L.1-1998, SEC.164; P.L.145-2006, SEC.259; P.L.191-2011, SEC.40; P.L.128-2012, SEC.74; P.L.186-2025, SEC.157.
Ind. Code § 31-39-4-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-39-4-9
Researchers
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. The head of a law enforcement agency may grant any person involved in a legitimate research activity access to the agency's confidential records if:

(1) the person conducting the research provides written information about:

(A) the purpose of the person's project, including any intent to publish the person's findings;

(B) the nature of the data the person seeks to collect and how the person intends to analyze the data;

(C) the records the person seeks to review; and

(D) the safeguards the person will take to protect the identity of the persons whose records will be reviewed;

(2) the proposed safeguards are adequate to protect the identity of each person whose records the researcher will review;

(3) the agency informs the researcher of the provisions of this section including the criminal liability of a person who recklessly fails to protect the records; and

(4) an agreement is executed between the agency and the person responsible for the research that specifies the terms of the researcher's use of the records.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.22.
Ind. Code § 31-17-2.2-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 2.2 / Section 31-17-2.2-6
Temporary order to restrain or permit relocation
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. (a) If a nonrelocating parent files a motion under section 5(a)(3) of this chapter, the court, after notice and an opportunity to be heard or after compliance with Trial Rule 65(B), may grant a temporary order restraining the relocation of a child or order the child to be returned to the nonrelocating parent if the court finds:

(1) that the notice required under section 3 of this chapter was not served in a timely manner and the parties have not presented an agreement regarding the relocation of the child;

(2) that the child has been relocated without:

(A) the appropriate notice;

(B) an agreement between the parties; or

(C) a court order; or

(3) from an examination of the evidence presented at the temporary hearing, that there is a likelihood that, after a final hearing, the court will not approve the relocation of the child.

(b) The court may grant a temporary order permitting the relocation of the child pending a final hearing if the court:

(1) determines that the notice required under section 3 of this chapter was provided in a timely manner;

(2) issues orders that may be necessary for temporary custody, parenting time, support, and grandparent visitation with the child; and

(3) reviews the evidence presented at the temporary hearing and determines that there is a likelihood that, after the final hearing, the court will approve the relocation of the child.

(c) If the court issues a temporary order authorizing the relocation of the child in its final judgment, the court must consider factors:

(1) other than; or

(2) in addition to;

the temporary relocation of the child when issuing a final order.

As added by P.L.50-2006, SEC.7. Amended by P.L.186-2019, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-25-2-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-25-2-6
Report requirements
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. The report required under section 4 of this chapter must do the following:

(1) Indicate the department's progress in recruiting, training, and retaining family case managers.

(2) Describe the methodology used to compute caseloads for each family case manager.

(3) Indicate whether the statewide average caseloads for family case managers exceed the caseload standards established by the department.

(4) If the report indicates that average caseloads exceed caseload standards, include a written plan that indicates the steps that are being taken to reduce caseloads.

(5) Identify, describe, and, if appropriate, recommend best management practices and resources required to achieve effective and efficient delivery of child protection services.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271. Amended by P.L.131-2009, SEC.27.
Ind. Code § 31-17-6-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-17-6-2
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.9.
Ind. Code § 31-25-4-30 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-25-4-30
Child support obligation lien list; motor vehicle liens
Status: in_force

Sec. 30. (a) The bureau shall, each month, prepare a list of each person against whom a child support obligation lien is held under IC 31-16-16-3 (or IC 31-2-11-9 before its repeal). The list must identify each person liable for a lien by name, address, amount of lien, and either Social Security number or employer identification number. The bureau shall certify a copy of the list to the bureau of motor vehicles.

(b) The bureau of motor vehicles shall, before issuing the title to a motor vehicle under IC 9-17, determine whether the purchaser's or assignee's name is on the most recent monthly lien list. If the purchaser's or assignee's name is on the list, the bureau shall enter as a lien on the title the name of the state as the lienholder. The state's lien on a title under this section is subordinate to a prior perfected security interest if the interest is defined and perfected under any of the following:

(1) IC 26-1-9.1.

(2) IC 32-8 (before its repeal).

(3) IC 32-28.

(4) IC 32-29.

(5) IC 32-33.

(6) IC 32-34-10.

(c) A lien against the title under this section must be treated in the same manner as any other subordinate title lien.

(d) The bureau shall prescribe and furnish release forms for use by the bureau. When the amount of the lien is paid, the bureau shall issue to the person against whom the lien was held a release stating that the amount represented by the lien has been paid. The bureau may also issue a release to a person against whom the lien is held if the person has made arrangements, agreed to by the bureau, for the payment of the amount represented by the lien.

(e) The director of the bureau or the director's designee is the custodian of all titles having the state as the sole lienholder under this section. Upon receiving a title from the bureau of motor vehicles under this section, the director shall notify the owner of the motor vehicle.

(f) The bureau shall reimburse the bureau of motor vehicles for all costs incurred by the bureau in implementing this section.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271.
Ind. Code § 31-16-16-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 16 / Section 31-16-16-4
Mode of enforcement; disputed amount
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) An obligee may enforce a judgment created under section 2 of this chapter (or IC 31-2-11-8 before its repeal) in the same manner as other civil judgments are enforced.

(b) If in a proceeding to enforce a judgment created under section 2 of this chapter (or IC 31-2-11-8 before its repeal) an obligor or an income payor disputes the amount that constitutes a judgment, the court with jurisdiction over the enforcement proceeding may conduct a hearing to determine the amount of delinquent support that is a judgment.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-2-11-10.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.3-2008, SEC.234.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-4-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-18.5-4-2
Proceeding to determine parentage
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. An Indiana tribunal authorized to determine parentage of a child may serve as a responding tribunal in a proceeding to determine parentage of a child brought under this article or a law or procedure substantially similar to this article.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-35-2-3.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-35-2-3.5
Conditions for filing of petition to terminate parent-child relationship
Status: in_force

Sec. 3.5. (a) The department shall, and any of the following individuals may, file a petition under section 4 of this chapter with regard to a child and the child's parent if one (1) or more of the circumstances described in subsection (b) occur:

(1) The child's guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate.

(2) An individual:

(A) with whom the child is placed during the child in need of services proceedings; and

(B) who is an intervenor in the child in need of services proceedings.

(b) The circumstances under which the department shall, or an individual described in subsection (a) may, file a petition under subsection (a) are as follows:

(1) Federal law requires the filing of a petition under section 4 of this chapter with regard to the child.

(2) The parent:

(A) either:

(i) has not completed; or

(ii) has not benefited from;

reunification services in which the parent was ordered to participate under the child's dispositional decree; and

(B) either:

(i) has not been granted an extension of the reunification services under IC 31-34-20-1.6; or

(ii) has exhausted all extensions of the reunification services available under IC 31-34-20-1.6.

(3) A previous petition was filed under section 4 of this chapter with regard to the child and was subsequently dismissed under section 4.5 of this chapter, and ninety (90) days or more have elapsed since the petition was dismissed.

As added by P.L.179-2025, SEC.24.
Ind. Code § 31-14-15-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-14-15-4
Remedies for contempt
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. A court that finds a violation without justifiable cause by a custodial parent of an injunction or a temporary restraining order issued under this chapter (or IC 31-6-6.1-12.1 before its repeal):

(1) shall find the custodial parent in contempt of court;

(2) shall order the exercise of parenting time that was not exercised due to the violation under this section (or IC 31-6-6.1-12.1(e) before its repeal) at a time the court considers compatible with the schedules of the noncustodial parent and the child;

(3) may order payment by the custodial parent of reasonable attorney's fees, costs, and expenses to the noncustodial parent; and

(4) may order the custodial parent to perform community restitution or service without compensation in a manner specified by the court.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-12.1(e).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.32-2000, SEC.17; P.L.68-2005, SEC.26.
Ind. Code § 31-31-2-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 31 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-31-2-1
Fees
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. The fees in juvenile court proceedings are set under IC 33-37-4-3.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.14. Amended by P.L.98-2004, SEC.107.
Ind. Code § 31-37-11-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-37-11-8
Prosecuting attorney's motion for continuance because of absence of witness
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. (a) If a child moves for discharge, the prosecuting attorney may move for a continuance of the factfinding hearing or waiver hearing because of the absence of a witness if the prosecuting attorney makes an official statement:

(1) setting forth the name and address of the witness if known;

(2) indicating the probability of procuring the witness's testimony within a reasonable time;

(3) showing that the absence of the witness has not been procured by the act of the prosecuting attorney;

(4) stating the facts to which the prosecuting attorney believes the witness will testify and the prosecuting attorney's belief that the facts are true; and

(5) stating that the prosecuting attorney is unable to prove the facts specified under subdivision (4) through the use of any other witness whose testimony may be as readily procured.

(b) Upon the child's request, the court shall order that the prosecuting attorney's motion and official statement be made in writing.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-237 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-237
"Supervised independent living arrangement"
Status: in_force

Sec. 237. "Supervised independent living arrangement", for purposes of IC 31-28-5.8 and IC 31-34-21-7.5, means a living arrangement that provides housing for a youth that is not supervised on site, such as a dormitory, an apartment, or shared housing, and is not a foster home, host home, group home, child caring institution, or private secure facility.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-15-7-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-15-7-2
Findings concerning maintenance
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. A court may make the following findings concerning maintenance:

(1) If the court finds a spouse to be physically or mentally incapacitated to the extent that the ability of the incapacitated spouse to support himself or herself is materially affected, the court may find that maintenance for the spouse is necessary during the period of incapacity, subject to further order of the court.

(2) If the court finds that:

(A) a spouse lacks sufficient property, including marital property apportioned to the spouse, to provide for the spouse's needs; and

(B) the spouse is the custodian of a child whose physical or mental incapacity requires the custodian to forgo employment;

the court may find that maintenance is necessary for the spouse in an amount and for a period of time that the court considers appropriate.

(3) After considering:

(A) the educational level of each spouse at the time of marriage and at the time the action is commenced;

(B) whether an interruption in the education, training, or employment of a spouse who is seeking maintenance occurred during the marriage as a result of homemaking or child care responsibilities, or both;

(C) the earning capacity of each spouse, including educational background, training, employment skills, work experience, and length of presence in or absence from the job market; and

(D) the time and expense necessary to acquire sufficient education or training to enable the spouse who is seeking maintenance to find appropriate employment;

a court may find that rehabilitative maintenance for the spouse seeking maintenance is necessary in an amount and for a period of time that the court considers appropriate, but not to exceed three (3) years from the date of the final decree.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-11(e) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-37-4-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-37-4-2
Taking custody without court order
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. A child may be taken into custody by a law enforcement officer acting with probable cause to believe that the child has committed a delinquent act.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-26-6-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-26-6-5
Biennial regional services strategic plan required
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. Each regional services council shall develop a biennial regional services strategic plan that is tailored to provide services targeted to the individual needs of children who:

(1) have been either:

(A) adjudicated as, or alleged in a proceeding initiated under IC 31-34 or IC 31-37 to be, children in need of services or delinquent children; or

(B) identified by the department, based on information received from:

(i) a school;

(ii) a social service agency;

(iii) a court;

(iv) a probation department;

(v) the child's parent or guardian; or

(vi) an interested person in the community having knowledge of the child's environment and family circumstances;

and after an informal investigation, as substantially at risk of becoming children in need of services or delinquent children; and

(2) have been referred to the department by, or with the consent of, the child's parent, guardian, or custodian for services to be provided through the plan based on an individual case plan for the child.

As added by P.L.146-2008, SEC.571.
Ind. Code § 31-19-13-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-19-13-3
Annulment or revocation of adoption; restoration of original certificate of birth
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Upon receipt of a notice of annulment or revocation of adoption, the original certificate of birth shall be restored.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-37-23-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 23 / Section 31-37-23-5
"Dependent child" or "neglected child" defined
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. As used in this chapter, "dependent child" or "neglected child" means a child in need of services under IC 31-34-1.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-34-19-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-34-19-7
Placement of child; relative; evaluation; background checks
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) In addition to the factors under section 6 of this chapter, if the court enters a dispositional decree regarding a child in need of services that includes an out-of-home placement, the court shall:

(1) order the department to continue exercising due diligence to identify all adult relatives of the child and adult siblings who may be considered as out-of-home placements for the child until the child has been in an out-of-home placement for at least twelve (12) months; and

(2) consider whether the child should be placed with the child's suitable and willing relative before considering other out-of-home placements for the child.

(b) A juvenile court shall consider placing a child described in subsection (a) with a relative related by blood, marriage, or adoption before considering any other placement of the child.

(c) Before a child is placed with a relative or de facto custodian, a home evaluation and background checks described in IC 31-34-4-2 are required.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.70-2004, SEC.20; P.L.234-2005, SEC.182; P.L.123-2014, SEC.23; P.L.210-2019, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-86 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-86
"Duty of support"
Status: in_force

Sec. 86. "Duty of support", 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 § 31-18.5-6-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-18.5-6-1
Registration of order for enforcement
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. A support order or income withholding order issued in another state or a foreign support order may be registered in Indiana for enforcement.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-25-2-15 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-25-2-15
Purchase of services of public or private agency
Status: in_force

Sec. 15. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, the department may purchase and use the services of any public or private agency if adequate provision is made for continuity of care and accountability.

(b) If the department purchases services under this article, the state shall reimburse the expenses, to the extent allowed by state and federal statutes, rules, and regulations, to the locality or agency in the same manner and to the same extent as if the services were provided directly by the department.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271.
Ind. Code § 31-31-5-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 31 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-31-5-4
Duties of probation officers
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. A probation officer shall, for the purpose of carrying out the juvenile law:

(1) conduct such investigations and prepare such reports and recommendations as the court directs and keep a written record of those investigations, reports, and recommendations;

(2) receive and examine complaints and allegations concerning matters covered by the juvenile law and make preliminary inquiries and investigations;

(3) implement informal adjustments;

(4) prepare and submit the predisposition report required for a dispositional hearing under the juvenile law;

(5) supervise and assist by all suitable methods a child placed on probation or in the probation officer's care by order of the court or other legal authority;

(6) keep complete records of the probation officer's work and comply with any order of the court concerning the collection, protection, and distribution of any money or other property coming into the probation officer's hands; and

(7) perform such other functions as are designated by the juvenile law or by the court in accordance with the juvenile law.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.14.
Ind. Code § 31-19-2-14 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-19-2-14
Consolidated paternity and adoption proceedings
Status: in_force

Sec. 14. (a) If a petition for adoption and a paternity action are pending at the same time for a child sought to be adopted, the court in which the petition for adoption has been filed has exclusive jurisdiction over the child, and the paternity proceeding must be consolidated with the adoption proceeding.

(b) If the petition for adoption is dismissed, the court hearing the consolidated adoption and paternity proceeding shall determine who has custody of the child under IC 31-19-11-5.

(c) Following a dismissal of the adoption petition under subsection (b), the court may:

(1) retain jurisdiction over the paternity proceeding; or

(2) return the paternity proceeding to the court in which it was originally filed.

If the paternity proceeding is returned to the court in which it was originally filed, the court assumes jurisdiction over the child, subject to any provisions of the consolidated court's order under IC 31-19-11-5.

As added by P.L.61-2003, SEC.3. Amended by P.L.81-2014, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-30-3-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 30 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-30-3-11
Waiver order; filing
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. The prosecuting attorney shall file a copy of the waiver order with the court to which the child has been waived when the prosecuting attorney files the indictment or information.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-37-25-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-37-25-4
Hearing; findings
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) The court may hold a hearing on a petition concurrently with a dispositional hearing or with a hearing to modify a dispositional decree.

(b) If the court finds that the allegations under section 3 of this chapter are true, the court shall enter a decree.

As added by P.L.133-2002, SEC.38.
Ind. Code § 31-34-4-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-34-4-4
Release, delivery, or detention of child taken into custody without court order
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. If a child is taken into custody without an order of the court, the person taking the child into custody:

(1) may:

(A) release the child; or

(B) deliver the child to a place designated by the juvenile court; and

(2) if the child is detained, shall promptly notify the child's parent, guardian, or custodian and an intake officer:

(A) that the child is being held; and

(B) of the reasons for the child's detention.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17.
Ind. Code § 31-34-18-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 18 / Section 31-34-18-6
Disclosure
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. (a) Predispositional reports shall be made available at least forty-eight (48) hours before the dispositional hearing, unless the juvenile court determines on the record that the reports contain information that should not be released to the child or the child's parent, guardian, or custodian.

(b) The court shall provide a copy of the report to:

(1) each attorney, guardian ad litem, or court appointed special advocate representing the child; and

(2) each attorney representing the child's parent, guardian, or custodian.

(c) The court may provide a factual summary of the report to:

(1) the child; or

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

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.197-1997, SEC.27; P.L.62-2018, SEC.1.
Ind. Code § 31-28-2-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 28 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-28-2-2
Medical treatment records
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. If medical care is provided to a child who receives foster care, the person who has custody of the child shall inform the provider that the child is in foster care and require a copy of the medical treatment record be sent to the local office.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.274. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.145; P.L.46-2024, SEC.10.
Ind. Code § 31-30-4-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 30 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-30-4-5
Offender progress report; court options
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. (a) At the request of a sentencing court, the department of correction shall provide a progress report to the sentencing court concerning an offender sentenced and placed in a juvenile facility under section 2(b) of this chapter. When the offender becomes eighteen (18) years of age:

(1) the department shall notify the sentencing court; and

(2) the sentencing court shall hold a review hearing concerning the offender before the offender becomes nineteen (19) years of age.

(b) Except as provided in subsection (c), after a hearing conducted under subsection (a), the sentencing court may:

(1) continue the offender's placement in a juvenile facility until the objectives of the sentence imposed on the offender have been met, if the sentencing court finds that the objectives of the sentence imposed on the offender have not been met;

(2) discharge the offender if the sentencing court finds that the objectives of the sentence imposed on the offender have been met;

(3) order execution of all or part of the offender's suspended criminal sentence in an adult facility of the department of correction; or

(4) place the offender:

(A) in home detention under IC 35-38-2.5;

(B) in a community corrections program under IC 35-38-2.6;

(C) on probation under IC 35-50-7; or

(D) in any other appropriate alternative sentencing program.

(c) This subsection applies to an offender over whom a juvenile court lacks jurisdiction under IC 31-30-1-4 who is convicted of one (1) or more of the following offenses:

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

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

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

(4) Rape as a Class A felony (for a crime committed before July 1, 2014) or a Level 1 felony (for a crime committed after June 30, 2014) (IC 35-42-4-1(b)).

(5) Criminal deviate conduct as a Class A felony (IC 35-42-4-2(b)) (before its repeal).

(6) Robbery as a Class A felony (for a crime committed before July 1, 2014) or a Level 2 felony (for a crime committed after June 30, 2014) (IC 35-42-5-1), if:

(A) the offense was committed while armed with a deadly weapon; and

(B) the offense resulted in bodily injury to any person other than a defendant.

The court may not modify the original sentence of an offender to whom this subsection applies if the prosecuting attorney objects in writing to the modification. The prosecuting attorney shall set forth in writing the prosecuting attorney's reasons for objecting to the sentence modification.

As added by P.L.104-2013, SEC.1. Amended by P.L.168-2014, SEC.42.
Ind. Code § 31-16-15-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-16-15-6
Repealed
Status: repealed

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Repealed by P.L.103-2007, SEC.51.
Ind. Code § 31-34-2.3-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 2.3 / Section 31-34-2.3-8
Violation of order by alleged perpetrator of child abuse or neglect
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. An alleged perpetrator of child abuse who knowingly or intentionally returns to a child's residence in violation of a child protective order issued under section 2 or 5 of this chapter commits a Class A misdemeanor. However, the offense is a Level 6 felony if the alleged perpetrator has a prior unrelated conviction under this section.

As added by P.L.52-2007, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.158-2013, SEC.320.
Ind. Code § 31-25-4-17.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-25-4-17.5
Recoupment of overpayment
Status: in_force

Sec. 17.5. (a) If the bureau or the clerk of the circuit court determines that a recipient of a court ordered support obligation has received a payment that the recipient is not entitled to because the payment:

(1) was distributed to the incorrect recipient;

(2) was made due to fraudulent activity; or

(3) exceeded the amount actually due to the recipient based on an accounting error;

the bureau or the clerk of the circuit court may recoup the amount of the overpayment from the recipient.

(b) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (a), this section does not apply to a voluntary overpayment.

As added by P.L.150-2018, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-165 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-165
"Nonidentifying information"
Status: in_force

Sec. 165. "Nonidentifying information", for purposes of IC 31-19-18, IC 31-19-21, IC 31-19-23, and IC 31-19-24, means any information, other than a medical history, that:

(1) concerns an interested person to an adoption; and

(2) does not identify a birth parent, an adoptive parent, or an adoptee.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-40-5-1.2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 40 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-40-5-1.2
"Workgroup"
Status: in_force

Sec. 1.2. As used in this chapter, "workgroup" refers to the grant process workgroup created by the oversight committee.

As added by P.L.201-2023, SEC.240.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-6-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-18.5-6-8
Confirmed order
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. Confirmation of a registered support order, whether by operation of law or after notice and hearing, precludes further contest of the order with respect to any matter that could have been asserted at the time of registration.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-37-12-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-37-12-2
Initial hearing; service of petition and summons; notice; determination of referral for dual status assessment
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) The juvenile court shall hold an initial hearing on each petition.

(b) The juvenile court shall set a time for the initial hearing. A summons shall be issued for the following:

(1) The child.

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

(3) Any other person necessary for the proceedings.

(c) A copy of the petition must accompany each summons. The clerk shall issue the summons under Rule 4 of the Indiana Rules of Trial Procedure.

(d) The prosecuting attorney or the probation department of the juvenile court shall provide notice of the time, place, and purpose of the initial hearing scheduled or held under this section to each foster parent or other caretaker with whom the child has been placed for temporary care under IC 31-37-5 or IC 31-37-7. The court shall:

(1) provide a:

(A) person for whom a summons is required to be issued under subsection (b); and

(B) person required to be notified under this subsection;

an opportunity to be heard; and

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

at the initial hearing.

(e) The juvenile court shall determine if a child should be referred for an assessment by a dual status assessment team as described in IC 31-41. In making its determination, the court shall consider the length of time since the delinquent act or the incident of abuse or neglect.

(f) If the court refers the child for an assessment by a dual status assessment team, the court shall schedule an additional initial hearing on the petition if the court refers a child to be assessed by a dual status assessment team unless the court:

(1) grants an extension of time due to extraordinary circumstances; and

(2) states the extraordinary circumstances in a written court order.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citations: 31-6-4-13(b); 31-6-7-4 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.138-2007, SEC.82; P.L.66-2015, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-37-7-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-37-7-1
Detention in certain facilities, camps, or schools prohibited
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. A child alleged to be a delinquent child under IC 31-37-2, except as provided in section 3 of this chapter, may not be held in:

(1) a secure facility; or

(2) a shelter care facility, a forestry camp, or a training school that houses persons charged with, imprisoned for, or incarcerated for crimes.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-6.5(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.146-2008, SEC.625.
Ind. Code § 31-19-4.5-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 4.5 / Section 31-19-4.5-2
Notice when consent not required
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. Except as provided in IC 31-19-2.5-4, if a petition for adoption alleges that consent to adoption is not required under IC 31-19-9-8, notice of the adoption must be given to the person from whom consent is allegedly not required under IC 31-19-9-8. Notice shall be given under IC 31-19-2.5-6.

As added by P.L.61-2003, SEC.10. Amended by P.L.146-2007, SEC.8; P.L.203-2021, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-39-5-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-39-5-6
Destruction of copies forwarded to other agencies
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. Any law enforcement agency that has forwarded copies of fingerprints or photographs that the law enforcement agency must destroy under section 4 of this chapter to any agency of the United States, of any other state, or of this state, shall request in writing that all copies be returned for destruction or for presentation to the child.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.22.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-102 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-102
"Foreign country"
Status: in_force

Sec. 102. "Foreign country", 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 § 31-30-1-0.1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 30 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-30-1-0.1
Application of certain amendments to chapter
Status: in_force

Sec. 0.1. The following amendments to this chapter apply as follows:

(1) The amendments made to section 1(a) of this chapter by P.L.217-2001 apply to all proceedings pending under IC 31-34 on July 1, 2001, and to all proceedings commenced under IC 31-34 after June 30, 2001.

(2) The amendments made to section 2.5 of this chapter by P.L.131-2009 apply to proceedings pending on or initiated on or after May 12, 2009.

As added by P.L.220-2011, SEC.508. Amended by P.L.115-2023, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-36-2-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 36 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-36-2-2
Investigatory duties of law enforcement agency
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. A law enforcement agency involved in the investigation of a missing child shall do the following:

(1) Update the initial report filed by the agency that received notification of the missing child upon the discovery of new information concerning the investigation.

(2) Forward the updated report to the agencies and organizations listed in IC 31-36-1-3.

(3) Search the National Crime Information Center's Wanted Person File for reports of arrest warrants issued for persons who allegedly abducted or unlawfully retained children and compare these reports to the missing child's National Crime Information Center's Missing Person File.

(4) Notify all law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation, the Indiana clearinghouse for information on missing children, missing veterans at risk, and missing endangered adults, and the National Crime Information Center when the missing child is located.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.19. Amended by P.L.43-2009, SEC.23; P.L.40-2024, SEC.31.
Ind. Code § 31-15-2-14 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-15-2-14
Bifurcation of issues; summary disposition orders
Status: in_force

Sec. 14. (a) The court may bifurcate the issues in an action for dissolution of marriage filed under section 2 of this chapter (or IC 31-1-11.5-3(a) before its repeal) to provide for a summary disposition of uncontested issues and a final hearing of contested issues. The court may enter a summary disposition order under this section upon the filing with the court of verified pleadings, signed by both parties, containing:

(1) a written waiver of a final hearing in the matter of:

(A) uncontested issues specified in the waiver; or

(B) contested issues specified in the waiver upon which the parties have reached an agreement;

(2) a written agreement made in accordance with section 17 of this chapter pertaining to contested issues settled by the parties; and

(3) a statement:

(A) specifying contested issues remaining between the parties; and

(B) requesting the court to order a final hearing as to contested issues to be held under this chapter.

(b) The court shall include in a summary disposition order entered under this section a date for a final hearing of contested issues.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-8(e).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-39-2-15 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-39-2-15
Waiver of restrictions
Status: in_force

Sec. 15. A person who is at least eighteen (18) years of age may waive the restrictions on access to the person's records if the person does so in writing, stating the terms of the person's waiver.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.22.
Ind. Code § 31-31-9-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 31 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-31-9-6
Superintendent; duties
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. Under the direction of the executive committee, the superintendent shall do the following:

(1) Supervise the operations of the juvenile detention centers so as to provide sound physical care in compliance with state, county, and other health requirements.

(2) Coordinate a program of constructive activities.

(3) Administer sound, fair, and impartial employment practices.

(4) Supervise employees of the juvenile detention center.

(5) Promote good public relations within the community.

(6) Make necessary written reports to the juvenile court judge and the executive committee regarding transfers, escapes, or destruction of center property.

(7) Make an annual inspection of the juvenile detention center and report in writing to the juvenile court judge and the executive committee any noncompliance with standards established by the commission on accreditation for corrections.

(8) Perform all other duties assigned by the executive committee.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-9.5-6(d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.14. Amended by P.L.142-2007, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-32-2-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-32-2-4
Waiver to court having criminal jurisdiction; requirement for criminal charge or conviction
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. A child may not be charged with or convicted of a crime, except a crime excluded by IC 31-30-1, unless the child has been waived to a court having criminal jurisdiction.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-3-5(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.