Ind. Code § 31-25-2-14.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-25-2-14.5
Child advocacy centers; duties; confidentiality; civil immunity
Status: in_force

Sec. 14.5. (a) The department may use a child advocacy center to coordinate a multidisciplinary team for responding to, and through the conclusion of, reports involving child abuse or neglect.

(b) A child advocacy center shall do the following:

(1) Coordinate a multidisciplinary team that consists of a representative from or described by each of the following:

(A) The child advocacy center.

(B) Law enforcement.

(C) The department.

(D) The prosecuting attorney's office.

(E) A medical provider.

(F) A mental health provider.

(G) A victim advocate.

Multidisciplinary team members may fill more than one (1) role, within the scope of the team member's practice, as needed.

(2) Offer cultural competency and diversity training to the multidisciplinary team members.

(3) Provide a dedicated child-focused setting designed to provide a safe, comfortable, and neutral place for a forensic interview and other child advocacy center services.

(4) Use written protocols signed by each member of the multidisciplinary team.

(5) Use a case tracking system to provide information on essential demographic and case information.

(6) Verify that multidisciplinary team members who are responsible for providing:

(A) medical evaluations have specific training in child abuse or child sexual abuse examinations; and

(B) mental health services are trained in and deliver trauma-focused, evidence-supported mental health treatments.

(c) Except as provided in subsection (d), the files, reports, records, communications, and working papers used or developed in providing services through a child advocacy center are confidential and are not public records.

(d) A multidisciplinary team member may share with other multidisciplinary team members any information or records concerning the child, the child's family, or the person who is the subject of the investigation of suspected child abuse or neglect for the purpose of:

(1) facilitating a forensic interview;

(2) facilitating a case discussion or case review; or

(3) providing services to the child or the child's caregivers.

The information shared under this subsection remains confidential.

(e) Except as provided in subsection (f), a:

(1) member of a child advocacy center's board of directors; or

(2) volunteer or employee of a child advocacy center;

is immune from civil liability for acts or omissions related to the individual's participation in the multidisciplinary team response described in subsection (a).

(f) An individual is not immune from civil liability under subsection (e) if the:

(1) act or omission amounts to:

(A) gross negligence; or

(B) willful or wanton misconduct; or

(2) individual has been charged with or suspected of abusing or neglecting the child who is the subject of the investigation or services provided.

As added by P.L.54-2024, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-34-2.5-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 2.5 / Section 31-34-2.5-2
Notice to department of child services or child placing agency; duties of department of child services or child placing agency upon receipt of notice
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) Immediately after an emergency medical services provider takes custody of a safe haven infant under section 1 of this chapter, the provider shall notify either:

(1) the department of child services; or

(2) a licensed child placing agency;

that the provider has taken custody of the safe haven infant.

(b) If notified under subsection (a), the department of child services or a licensed child placing agency shall:

(1) assume the care, control, and custody of the safe haven infant immediately after receiving notice under subsection (a);

(2) not later than forty-eight (48) hours after the department of child services or a licensed child placing agency has taken custody of the safe haven infant, contact the Indiana clearinghouse for information on missing children, missing veterans at risk, and missing endangered adults established by IC 10-13-5-5 and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children to determine if the safe haven infant has been reported missing; and

(3) fifteen (15) days after the department of child services or a licensed child placing agency has taken custody of the safe haven infant, contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children a second time to determine if the safe haven infant has been reported missing.

As added by P.L.133-2000, SEC.3. Amended by P.L.217-2001, SEC.6; P.L.2-2003, SEC.76; P.L.234-2005, SEC.169; P.L.43-2009, SEC.20; P.L.45-2023, SEC.6; P.L.40-2024, SEC.28.
Ind. Code § 31-14-14-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 14 / Section 31-14-14-3
Grant or denial of visitation rights to noncustodial parent; effect on visitation rights of grandparent
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. An order granting or denying visitation rights to a noncustodial parent does not affect visitation rights granted to a grandparent under IC 31-17-5-1 or IC 31-17-5-10 (or IC 31-1-11.7-2 before its repeal).

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-12(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-37-9-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-37-9-10
Repealed
Status: repealed

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.98-2004, SEC.115. Repealed by P.L.101-2022, SEC.22.
Ind. Code § 31-33-5-2.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-33-5-2.5
Repealed
Status: repealed

As added by P.L.183-2017, SEC.33. Repealed by P.L.168-2025, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-35-4-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-35-4-4
Informing parties of intention to introduce and contents of statements and videotapes
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. A statement or videotape may not be admitted in evidence under this chapter unless the attorney for the department informs the parties of:

(1) an intention to introduce the statement or videotape in evidence; and

(2) the content of the statement or videotape;

at least seven (7) days before the proceedings to give the parties a fair opportunity to prepare a response to the statement or videotape before the proceeding.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-15-5 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.18. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.331; P.L.146-2008, SEC.620.
Ind. Code § 31-11-11-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-11-11-1
False information in marriage license application
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. A person who knowingly furnishes false information to a clerk of the circuit court when the person applies for a marriage license under IC 31-11-4 commits a Level 6 felony.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-9-1.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3. Amended by P.L.158-2013, SEC.307.
Ind. Code § 31-14-7-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-14-7-3
Paternity affidavits
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. A man is a child's legal father if the man executed a paternity affidavit in accordance with IC 16-37-2-2.1 and the paternity affidavit has not been rescinded or set aside under IC 16-37-2-2.1.

As added by P.L.138-2001, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-19-20-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 20 / Section 31-19-20-1
Release of medical history; supplementation
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. The state registrar:

(1) shall release a copy of the medical history to any interested person;

(2) may release a copy of the medical history to any person who satisfies the registrar that the person has a legitimate need; and

(3) shall supplement the medical history with medical information received from any person.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-4-14(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-6-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-18.5-6-10
Effect of registration for modification
Status: in_force

Sec. 10. An Indiana tribunal may enforce a child support order of another state registered for purposes of modification, in the same manner as if the order had been issued by an Indiana tribunal, but the registered support order may be modified only if the requirements of section 11 or 13 of this chapter have been met.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-157 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-157
"Long term foster parent"
Status: in_force

Sec. 157. "Long term foster parent", for purposes of IC 31-32-2.5 and IC 31-34-21, means a foster parent who has provided care and supervision for a child:

(1) for at least the twelve (12) most recent months;

(2) for at least fifteen (15) months of the most recent twenty-two (22) months; or

(3) if the child is less than twelve (12) months of age, for at least six (6) months.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-66 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-66
"Court"
Status: in_force

Sec. 66. (a) "Court", for purposes of IC 31-15, IC 31-16, and IC 31-17, means the circuit, superior, or other courts of Indiana upon which jurisdiction to enter dissolution decrees has been or may be conferred.

(b) "Court", for purposes of IC 31-16-15, refers to the court having jurisdiction over child support orders.

(c) "Court", for purposes of IC 31-37-23, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-37-23-3.

(d) "Court", for purposes of the Interstate Compact on Juveniles under IC 31-37-23-1, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-37-23-1.

(e) "Court", for purposes of IC 31-27, means a circuit or superior court.

(f) "Court", for purposes of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act under IC 31-21, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-21-2-7.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-6-13 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-18.5-6-13
Jurisdiction to modify child support order of another state
Status: in_force

Sec. 13. (a) If all of the parties who are individuals reside in Indiana and the child does not reside in the issuing state, an Indiana tribunal has jurisdiction to enforce and to modify the issuing state's child support order in a proceeding to register that order.

(b) An Indiana tribunal exercising jurisdiction under this section shall apply IC 31-18.5-1, IC 31-18.5-2, this chapter, and the procedural and substantive Indiana law to the proceeding for enforcement or modification. IC 31-18.5-1 through IC 31-18.5-5 and IC 31-18.5-7 through IC 31-18.5-8 do not apply.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-15-5-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-15-5-11
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-8.3 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7. Repealed by P.L.133-2002, SEC.69.
Ind. Code § 31-39-8-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-39-8-7
Use of expunged records in civil action
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. If a person whose records are expunged brings an action that might be defended with the contents of the records, the defendant is presumed to have a complete defense to the action. For the plaintiff to recover, the plaintiff must show that the contents of the expunged records would not exonerate the defendant. The plaintiff may be required to state under oath whether the plaintiff had records in the juvenile justice system and whether those records were expunged. If the plaintiff denies the existence of the records, the defendant may prove the existence of the records in any manner compatible with the law of evidence.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.22.
Ind. Code § 31-25-2-11.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-25-2-11.5
Director or director's designee requirements
Status: in_force

Sec. 11.5. (a) For purposes of an administrative proceeding regarding an action taken by the department, the director or the director's designee is the ultimate authority of the department.

(b) A designee of the director under subsection (a) must be:

(1) a deputy director of the department; or

(2) an individual who:

(A) is an attorney in good standing who is admitted to the practice of law in Indiana; and

(B) is an employee of the department, except as otherwise allowed under state and federal law.

As added by P.L.13-2021, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-15-3-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-15-3-11
Maintenance
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. A decree under this chapter may not include a maintenance provision that extends beyond the period of legal separation.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-39-4-14 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-39-4-14
Limited jurisdiction and control of juvenile court over law enforcement records
Status: in_force

Sec. 14. A judge of a juvenile court or the judge's employees may not exercise any jurisdiction or control over:

(1) records kept and maintained by law enforcement agencies relating to juveniles; and

(2) the discretion granted to heads of law enforcement agencies to release, or to grant access to, records and information unless otherwise specifically provided in the juvenile law, including IC 31-37-4-3 and IC 31-39-9. Any specific authority that is granted does not imply the existence of any other jurisdiction or control.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.22. Amended by P.L.67-2007, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-8
"Adoptee"
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. "Adoptee", for purposes of IC 31-19-17 through IC 31-19-25.5, means a person who has been legally adopted.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-26-4-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-26-4-12-b
Indiana kids first trust fund
Status: in_force

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

Sec. 12. (a) The Indiana kids first trust fund is established to carry out the purposes of this chapter.

(b) The fund consists of the following:

(1) Appropriations made by the general assembly.

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

(3) Fees from kids first trust license plates issued under IC 9-18-30 (before its expiration) or IC 9-18.5-14.

(4) Money donated to the fund, including donations from a nonprofit subsidiary corporation established under section 17 of this chapter (before its repeal).

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

(c) The treasurer of state shall administer the fund.

(d) The expenses of administering the fund and this chapter shall be paid from the fund.

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

(f) An appropriation made by the general assembly to the fund shall be allotted and allocated at the beginning of the fiscal period for which the appropriation was made.

(g) Money in the fund at the end of a state fiscal year does not revert to the state general fund or any other fund.

(h) Subject to this chapter, there is annually appropriated to the department all money in the fund for the purposes of this chapter. However, the department may not request the allotment of money from the appropriation for a project that has not been approved and recommended by the commission.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.272. Amended by P.L.198-2016, SEC.660; P.L.93-2021, SEC.4; P.L.152-2026, SEC.463.
Ind. Code § 31-16-17-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 17 / Section 31-16-17-4
Standing; costs
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) Any of the following may prosecute a civil action for support of a parent:

(1) The parent.

(2) The township trustee.

(3) The department.

(4) The director of the division of family resources.

(5) The prosecuting attorney.

(b) Costs may not be taxed against:

(1) the prosecuting attorney;

(2) the department;

(3) the township trustee; or

(4) the director of the division of family resources.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-2-9-2(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.240; P.L.128-2012, SEC.44.
Ind. Code § 31-11-3-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-11-3-4
Agreement must be in writing; consideration not required
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. A premarital agreement must be in writing and signed by both parties. The agreement is enforceable without consideration.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-2.5-4.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-11-1-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-11-1-4
Minimum age for marriage
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. Except as provided in sections 5 and 7 of this chapter, two (2) individuals may not marry each other unless both individuals are at least eighteen (18) years of age.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-1-5.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3. Amended by P.L.94-2020, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-34-9-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-34-9-1
Request for authorization to file petition; representation of interests of state; deadlines and procedures
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) The attorney for the department:

(1) may request the juvenile court to authorize the filing of a petition alleging that a child is a child in need of services; and

(2) shall represent the interests of the state at this proceeding and at all subsequent proceedings on the petition.

(b) A prosecuting attorney:

(1) may request the juvenile court to authorize the filing of a petition alleging that a child is a child in need of services under IC 31-34-1; and

(2) shall represent the interests of the state at this proceeding and at all subsequent proceedings on the petition, unless the prosecuting attorney and the department agree that the department shall represent the interests of the state at this proceeding and at all subsequent proceedings on the petition.

(c) If a prosecuting attorney is representing the interests of the state at a subsequent proceeding after a petition is filed under this section, all deadlines and procedures concerning children in need of services under this article apply to the prosecuting attorney to the same extent as they apply to the department.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.294; P.L.146-2008, SEC.588; P.L.236-2013, SEC.1.
Ind. Code § 31-21-5-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-21-5-12
Continuous duty to inform
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. Each party has a continuing duty to inform the court of a proceeding in Indiana or any other state that may affect the current proceeding.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-34-19-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-34-19-6
Dispositional decree; considerations; formal order
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. (a) If consistent with the safety of the community and the best interest of the child, the juvenile court shall enter a dispositional decree that:

(1) is:

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

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

(2) least interferes with family autonomy;

(3) is least disruptive of family life;

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

(5) provides a reasonable opportunity for participation by the child's parent, guardian, or custodian; and

(6) provides a reasonable opportunity for the child's parent who:

(A) is incarcerated; and

(B) has maintained a meaningful role in the child's life;

to maintain a relationship with the child.

(b) In determining whether reunification of a child with a parent, guardian, or custodian from whom the child has been removed is in the child's best interest, a court shall do the following:

(1) The court shall determine whether reunifying the child with the parent, guardian, or custodian will result in separation of the child from a sibling of the child.

(2) If the court determines under subdivision (1) that reunifying the child with the parent, guardian, or custodian will result in separation of the child from a sibling of the child, the court shall consider whether separating the child from the child's sibling is in the child's best interest.

(c) If a dispositional decree is entered under this section, the court shall write a formal order with the court's findings and conclusions, including any specific factors used to determine the child's best interest.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.55-1997, SEC.22; P.L.258-2019, SEC.2; P.L.65-2023, SEC.2; P.L.116-2026, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-35-5-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-35-5-6
Persons who may be present during child's testimony; videotapes
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. If the court makes an order under section 3 of this chapter, only the following persons may be in the same room as the child during the child's videotaped testimony:

(1) The judge.

(2) The prosecuting attorney or the attorney for the department.

(3) The attorney for each party.

(4) Persons necessary to operate the electronic equipment.

(5) The court reporter.

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

(7) The parties, who can observe and hear the testimony of the child without the child being able to observe or hear the parties. However, if a party is not represented by an attorney, the party may question the child.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.18. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.335.
Ind. Code § 31-37-23-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 23 / Section 31-37-23-7
Compact administrator; appointment; duties
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) The governor shall appoint a compact administrator for parolees. The administrator is an employee of the department of correction.

(b) The judicial conference of Indiana shall appoint a compact administrator for probationers under the compact.

(c) The administrators, in cooperation with the compact administrators of other states, shall implement the compact.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-10-3(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-34-12-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-34-12-6
Admissibility of privileged communications
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. Neither:

(1) the physician-patient privilege; nor

(2) the husband-wife privilege;

is grounds for excluding evidence in a proceeding in which the child is alleged to be a child in need of services.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17.
Ind. Code § 31-37-7-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-37-7-2
Detention of child committing acts that would be offenses if committed by adults
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. A child alleged to be a delinquent child under IC 31-37-1 may be held in either of the following:

(1) A secure facility for not more than six (6) hours upon arrest for the limited purposes of:

(A) identification;

(B) processing;

(C) interrogation;

(D) transfer to a juvenile detention facility; or

(E) release to parents.

If the child is detained in a secure facility, the child shall be restricted to an area of the facility in which the child has not more than haphazard or incidental sight or sound contact with persons charged with, imprisoned for, or incarcerated for crimes.

(2) A juvenile detention facility.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-21-2-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-21-2-3
"Child"
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. "Child" means a person who is less than eighteen (18) years of age.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-19-24-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 24 / Section 31-19-24-7
Confidentiality of information filed with court
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. Information released to the confidential intermediary under this chapter shall be filed with the court in a manner designed to:

(1) protect the identity and current location of the person releasing the information; and

(2) preserve the confidentiality of the medical, identifying, or nonidentifying information that the confidential intermediary obtains.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.196-1997, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-37-19-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-37-19-8
Continuous or intermittent confinement; substandard juvenile detention facilities
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. (a) Confinement under section 6(b)(2)(B) of this chapter may be continuous or intermittent, including confinement at night or on weekends.

(b) A child may not be sent to a juvenile detention facility that fails to meet standards established by law.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-15.6(c), (d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-19-4-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-19-4-10
Repealed
Status: repealed

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Repealed by P.L.61-2003, SEC.22.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-242 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-242
"Team"
Status: in_force

Sec. 242. "Team", for purposes of IC 31-33-3, refers to a community child protection team appointed under IC 31-33-3.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-37-19-20 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-37-19-20
Restitution or removal of graffiti; rescission of order suspending or invalidating driver's license or learner's permit
Status: in_force

Sec. 20. (a) This section applies if the juvenile court has entered an order for suspension or invalidation of a driver's license or a learner's permit under section 17 of this chapter (or IC 31-6-4-15.9(f) before its repeal).

(b) Following a determination by the juvenile court that the child has removed or painted over the graffiti or has made other suitable restitution, the court may:

(1) rescind the order for suspension or invalidation; and

(2) allow the child to receive a license or permit before the period of suspension or invalidation ends.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.111-2021, SEC.101.
Ind. Code § 31-14-3-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-14-3-2
Venue
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. Venue lies in the county in which the child, the mother, or the alleged father resides.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-34-3-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-34-3-1
Procedures for notice to custodial parent, guardian, or custodian
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. If a child is taken into custody under IC 31-34-2, the department of child services shall notify the child's custodial parent, guardian, or custodian not more than two (2) hours after the child has been taken into custody that the child has been taken into custody as the result of alleged child abuse or neglect.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.172.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-178 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-178
"Person acting as a parent"
Status: in_force

Sec. 178. "Person acting as a parent", for purposes of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act under IC 31-21, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-21-2-14.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-34-1-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-34-1-12
Exception for mother's good faith use of legend drug according to prescription
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. A child is not a child in need of services under section 10 or 11 of this chapter if:

(1) a drug detected in the body of the child under section 10(1) of this chapter or the condition described in section 11(1) of this chapter was caused by a legend drug; and

(2) during pregnancy the child's mother:

(A) possessed a valid prescription for the legend drug;

(B) was not in violation of IC 16-42-19 (the Indiana legend drug act); and

(C) made a good faith attempt to use the legend drug according to the prescription instructions.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-3.1(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17.
Ind. Code § 31-34-19-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-34-19-1
Dispositional hearing; issues for consideration
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) The juvenile court shall complete a dispositional hearing not more than thirty (30) days after the date the court finds that a child is a child in need of services to consider the following:

(1) Alternatives for the care, treatment, rehabilitation, or placement of the child.

(2) The necessity, nature, and extent of the participation by a parent, a guardian, or a custodian in the program of care, treatment, or rehabilitation for the child.

(3) The financial responsibility of the parent or guardian of the estate for services provided for the parent or guardian or the child.

(4) The recommendations and report of a dual status assessment team if the child is a dual status child.

(b) If the dispositional hearing is not completed in the time set forth in subsection (a), upon a filing of a motion with the court, the court shall dismiss the case without prejudice.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.55-1997, SEC.20; P.L.146-2006, SEC.48; P.L.48-2012, SEC.62; P.L.66-2015, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-14-11-16 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-14-11-16
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-16(g).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Repealed by P.L.207-2013, SEC.34.
Ind. Code § 31-34-1-16 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-34-1-16
Termination of parental rights or transfer of custody may not be required; voluntary placement agreements
Status: in_force

Sec. 16. (a) The department may not:

(1) initiate a court proceeding to:

(A) terminate the parental rights concerning; or

(B) transfer legal custody of; or

(2) require a parent, guardian, or custodian to consent to:

(A) the termination of parental rights; or

(B) transfer of legal custody of;

a child with an emotional, a behavioral, or a mental disorder or a developmental or physical disability who is voluntarily placed out of the home for the purpose of obtaining special treatment or care, solely because the parent, guardian, or custodian is unable to provide the treatment or care. Relinquishment of custody of a child described in this subsection may not be made a condition for receipt of services or care delivered or funded by the department or the local office.

(b) When a child described in subsection (a) is voluntarily placed out of the home to receive special treatment or care, the department and the parent, guardian, or custodian of the child may execute a voluntary placement agreement that includes the following:

(1) A statement that, by entering into a voluntary placement agreement, the parent, guardian, or custodian of the child is not transferring legal custody of the child to the department.

(2) A statement specifying the legal status of the child.

(3) A statement specifying the rights and obligations of the parent, guardian, or custodian.

As added by P.L.282-2001, SEC.3. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.289; P.L.128-2012, SEC.157.
Ind. Code § 31-27-6-15.7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-27-6-15.7
Personnel; workloads
Status: in_force

Sec. 15.7. (a) The following restrictions apply to caseworker caseloads:

(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a caseworker may not supervise more than eighteen (18) children.

(2) The department shall determine the appropriate caseworker to child ratio, which may be between 1:8 and 1:12 for children requiring enhanced supervision.

(3) A caseworker with a caseload including some children requiring enhanced supervision may not supervise more than fifteen (15) children. The caseworker may, if needed, carry a reduced caseload of not more than ten (10) children based on the level of enhanced supervision required for the children being served.

(b) A casework supervisor may supervise at least five (5) caseworkers but not more than eight (8) caseworkers, depending on the level of enhanced supervision required for the children being served.

As added by P.L.109-2024, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-14-11-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-14-11-1
Issuance of paternity and child support order upon execution of paternity affidavit
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. If:

(1) a paternity affidavit is executed under IC 16-37-2-2.1; and

(2) the paternity affidavit has not been set aside under IC 16-37-2-2.1(k) or IC 16-37-2-2.1(l);

an order establishing paternity and child support for the child named in the paternity affidavit must be obtained at a child support hearing without any further proceedings to establish the child's paternity.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-9.5.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.78-2026, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-19-9-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-19-9-12
When consent of putative father irrevocably implied
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. A putative father's consent to adoption is irrevocably implied without further court action if the putative father:

(1) fails to file a motion to contest the adoption in accordance with IC 31-19-10 within fifteen (15) days after service of notice under IC 31-19-4 in the court in which the adoption is pending;

(2) files a motion to contest the adoption under IC 31-19-10 and the motion is dismissed by the court under IC 31-19-10-1.2(g) or is otherwise denied by the court;

(3) having filed a paternity action under IC 31-14 or in any other jurisdiction, fails to establish paternity in the action; or

(4) is required to but fails to register with the putative father registry established by IC 31-19-5 within the period under IC 31-19-5-12.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.197-1997, SEC.19; P.L.200-1999, SEC.20; P.L.21-2010, SEC.6; P.L.113-2017, SEC.6; P.L.203-2021, SEC.17; P.L.89-2023, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-16-9-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-16-9-6
Accounting of future expenditures
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. At the time of entering an order for support or at any subsequent time, the court may order, upon a proper showing of necessity, the spouse or other person receiving support payments to provide an accounting to the court of future expenditures upon such terms and conditions as the court decrees.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-12
"Adoption subsidy"
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. "Adoption subsidy", for purposes of IC 31-19-26.5, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-19-26.5-1.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-92 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-92
"Exigent circumstances"
Status: in_force

Sec. 92. (a) "Exigent circumstances", as applied to an action by the department with regard to a child, means that:

(1) the department has definite and articulable evidence giving rise to a reasonable suspicion that the child or a child residing in the home with the child:

(A) has been or is in imminent danger of being physically or sexually abused; or

(B) has been or is in imminent danger of being neglected in a manner that would lead a reasonable person to believe the child's physical safety is seriously endangered;

(2) there is no less intrusive alternative to the department's action that would reasonably and sufficiently protect the child's imminent health or safety; and

(3) one (1) or more of the following applies:

(A) The parent, guardian, or custodian of the child:

(i) is the alleged perpetrator of the abuse or neglect of the child; or

(ii) is allegedly aware of the abuse or neglect of the child and has allegedly not ensured the child's safety.

(B) There is reason to believe that:

(i) the safety of the child might be jeopardized; or

(ii) essential evidence regarding signs or symptoms of abuse or neglect under subdivision (1) on or in the child's body might not be available;

if the department's action is delayed or the child's parent, guardian, or custodian is notified before the department's action.

(C) The child is a homeless unaccompanied minor and is voluntarily receiving services at an emergency shelter or shelter care facility without the presence or consent of the child's parent, guardian, or custodian.

(b) An allegation of educational neglect does not qualify as an exigent circumstance.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-19-29-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 29 / Section 31-19-29-6
Federal aid
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. Consistent with federal law, the department in connection with the administration of this chapter and any compact pursuant hereto shall include in any state plan made pursuant to the federal Adoption Assistance and Child Welfare Act of 1980 (P.L.96-272), Title IV-E and Title XIX of the federal Social Security Act, and any other applicable federal laws, the provision of adoption assistance and medical assistance for which the federal government pays some or all of the cost. The department shall apply for and administer all relevant federal aid in accordance with law.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.270.
Ind. Code § 31-37-4-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-37-4-1
Taking custody under court order
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. A child may be taken into custody by a law enforcement officer under an order of the court.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-37-9-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-37-9-5
Repealed
Status: repealed

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Repealed by P.L.197-1997, SEC.29.
Ind. Code § 31-14-13-2.3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-14-13-2.3
Joint legal custody; finding required for award; factors considered in making award
Status: in_force

Sec. 2.3. (a) In a proceeding to which this chapter applies, the court may award legal custody of a child jointly if the court finds that an award of joint legal custody would be in the best interest of the child.

(b) An award of joint legal custody under this section does not require an equal division of physical custody of the child.

(c) In determining whether an award of joint legal custody under this section would be in the best interest of the child, the court shall consider it a matter of primary, but not determinative, importance that the persons awarded joint legal custody have agreed to an award of joint legal custody. The court shall also consider:

(1) the fitness and suitability of each of the persons awarded joint legal custody;

(2) whether the persons awarded joint legal custody are willing and able to communicate and cooperate in advancing the child's welfare;

(3) the wishes of the child, with more consideration given to the child's wishes if the child is at least fourteen (14) years of age;

(4) whether the child has established a close and beneficial relationship with both of the persons awarded joint legal custody;

(5) whether the persons awarded joint legal custody:

(A) live in close proximity to each other; and

(B) plan to continue to do so;

(6) the nature of the physical and emotional environment in the home of each of the persons awarded joint legal custody; and

(7) whether there is a pattern of domestic or family violence.

As added by P.L.95-2009, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-16 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-16
"Age or developmentally appropriate"
Status: in_force

Sec. 16. "Age or developmentally appropriate", for purposes of IC 31-34 and IC 31-37, means:

(1) activities or items that are generally:

(A) accepted as suitable for children of the same chronological age or level of maturity; or

(B) determined to be developmentally appropriate for a child based on the development of cognitive, emotional, physical, and behavioral capacities that are typical for an age or age group; and

(2) in the case of a specific child, activities or items that are suitable for the child based on the developmental stages attained by the child with respect to the cognitive, emotional, physical, and behavioral capacities of the child.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-27-2-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-27-2-7-b
Child caring institutions and group homes operated by churches and religious ministries
Status: in_force

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

Sec. 7. (a) Except as provided in subsections (b) and (c), the department shall exempt from licensure a child caring institution and a group home operated by a church or religious ministry that is a religious organization exempt from federal income taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (as defined in IC 6-3-1-11) and that does not:

(1) accept for care:

(A) a child who is a delinquent child under IC 31-37-1-1 or IC 31-37-2-1; or

(B) a child who is a child in need of services under IC 31-34-1-1 through IC 31-34-1-9; or

(2) operate a residential facility that provides child care on a twenty-four (24) hour basis for profit.

(b) The department shall adopt rules under IC 4-22-2 to govern the inspection of a child caring institution and a group home operated by a church or religious ministry with regard to sanitation.

(c) The department of homeland security shall adopt rules under IC 4-22-2 to govern the inspection of a child caring institution and a group home operated by a church or religious ministry under this section. The rules must provide standards for fire alarms and fire drills.

(d) A child caring institution and a group home operated by a church or religious ministry under this section shall comply with the rules established by the department and the department of homeland security under this section.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.152-2026, SEC.469.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-69 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-69
"Crime involving domestic or family violence"
Status: in_force

Sec. 69. "Crime involving domestic or family violence" means a crime that occurs when a family or household member commits, attempts to commit, or conspires to commit any of the following against another family or household member:

(1) A homicide offense under IC 35-42-1.

(2) A battery offense under IC 35-42-2.

(3) Kidnapping or confinement under IC 35-42-3.

(4) A sex offense under IC 35-42-4.

(5) Robbery under IC 35-42-5.

(6) Arson or vandalism under IC 35-43-1.

(7) Burglary or trespass under IC 35-43-2.

(8) Disorderly conduct under IC 35-45-1.

(9) Intimidation or harassment under IC 35-45-2.

(10) Voyeurism under IC 35-45-4.

(11) Stalking under IC 35-45-10.

(12) An offense against the family under IC 35-46-1-2 through IC 35-46-1-8, IC 35-46-1-12, IC 35-46-1-15.1, or IC 35-46-1-15.3.

(13) Human and sexual trafficking crimes under IC 35-42-3.5.

(14) A crime involving animal cruelty and a family or household member under IC 35-46-3-12(b)(2) or IC 35-46-3-12.5.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-19-26.5-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 26.5 / Section 31-19-26.5-4
Priority for funding if funds are insufficient
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. If the department determines that sufficient funds are not or will not be available in the adoption assistance account established under this chapter to make adoption subsidy payments to adoptive parents of all children who may be eligible for a subsidy payable under this chapter, the department may, in accordance with procedures established by rules:

(1) approve new adoption subsidy agreements only for the benefit of children for whom the department has wardship responsibility at the time the adoption petition is filed; or

(2) give priority to funding new adoption subsidy agreements for children for whom the department has had wardship responsibility.

As added by P.L.146-2008, SEC.562.
Ind. Code § 31-40-1-2.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 40 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-40-1-2.5
Payment of cost for certain services; department agreement with probation office
Status: in_force

Sec. 2.5. (a) This section applies to a child who is:

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

(2) a party in a pending child in need of services proceeding under the jurisdiction of a juvenile court;

(3) receiving services for which payment has been made by the department under a case plan and a dispositional decree in the child in need of services proceeding; and

(4) placed in a secure detention facility by order of a juvenile court, based on a determination by the juvenile court that the child committed, or that probable cause exists to believe that the child committed, a delinquent act described in IC 31-37-1-2 at a time after adjudication in the child in need of services case.

(b) The department may, by agreement with the probation office of the juvenile court in which the delinquency case is pending, pay the cost of specified services for a child described in subsection (a), during the time the child is placed in a secure detention facility.

(c) An agreement under this section must specify:

(1) the particular services that will be paid by the department during the time the child is placed in a secure detention facility;

(2) the term of the agreement;

(3) any procedure or limitations relating to amendment or extension of the agreement; and

(4) any other provision that the parties consider necessary or appropriate.

(d) The child's case plan in a child in need of services case, as prepared and approved by the department under IC 31-34-15, shall be attached to and made a part of the agreement.

(e) An agreement under this section:

(1) shall be signed by:

(A) the director of the department; and

(B) the judge of the juvenile court that ordered or approved placement of the child in the secure detention facility; and

(2) may not be considered to be a contract for purposes of IC 4-13-2.

As added by P.L.146-2008, SEC.666.
Ind. Code § 31-10-1-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 10 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-10-1-3
Effect on existing rights and liabilities
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) The recodification act of the 1997 regular session of the general assembly does not affect:

(1) any rights or liabilities accrued;

(2) any penalties incurred;

(3) any violations committed;

(4) any proceedings begun;

(5) any bonds, notes, loans, or other forms of indebtedness issued, incurred, or made;

(6) any tax levies made or authorized;

(7) any funds established;

(8) any patents issued;

(9) the validity, continuation, or termination of any contracts or leases executed;

(10) the validity, continuation, scope, termination, suspension, or revocation of:

(A) permits;

(B) licenses;

(C) certificates of registration;

(D) grants of authority; or

(E) limitations of authority; or

(11) the validity of court decisions entered regarding the constitutionality of any provision of the prior family law and juvenile law;

before the effective date of the recodification act of the 1997 regular session of the general assembly (July 1, 1997). Those rights, liabilities, penalties, offenses, proceedings, bonds, notes, loans, other forms of indebtedness, tax levies, funds, patents, contracts, leases, permits, licenses, certificates of registration, grants of authority, or limitations of authority continue and shall be imposed and enforced under prior family law and juvenile law as if the recodification act of the 1997 regular session of the general assembly had not been enacted.

(b) The recodification act of the 1997 regular session of the general assembly does not:

(1) extend, or cause to expire, a permit, license, certificate of registration, or other grant or limitation of authority; or

(2) in any way affect the validity, scope, or status of a license, permit, certificate of registration, or other grant or limitation of authority;

issued under the prior family law and juvenile law.

(c) The recodification act of the 1997 regular session of the general assembly does not affect the revocation, limitation, or suspension of a permit, license, certificate of registration, or other grant or limitation of authority based in whole or in part on violations of the prior family law and juvenile law or the rules adopted under the prior family law and juvenile law.

[1997 Recodification Citation: New.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-27-4.5-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 4.5 / Section 31-27-4.5-2
Removal of foster child on the basis of filing a petition to adopt
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. The department may not remove a foster child from the home of a foster parent solely on the basis of the foster parent having filed a petition to adopt the child.

As added by P.L.244-2023, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-27-3-18 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-27-3-18
Records
Status: in_force

Sec. 18. (a) A licensee shall keep records regarding each child in the control and care of the licensee as the department requires and shall report to the department upon request the facts the department requires with reference to children.

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

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

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

(2) A legally mandated child protection agency.

(3) A law enforcement agency.

(4) An agency having the legal responsibility to care for a child placed at the child caring institution.

(5) The parent, guardian, or custodian of the child at the child caring institution.

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

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

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.138-2007, SEC.49; P.L.182-2009(ss), SEC.374; P.L.123-2014, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-40-2-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 40 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-40-2-3
County supplemental juvenile probation services fund; disposition of unused money
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Money remaining in the county supplemental juvenile probation services fund at the end of the county's fiscal year does not revert to any other fund but continues in the county supplemental juvenile probation services fund.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.23.
Ind. Code § 31-14-15-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-14-15-2
Parenting time rights; temporary restraining order against custodial parent
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) If:

(1) an application for an injunction is filed under this chapter (or IC 31-6-6.1-12.1 before its repeal); and

(2) the noncustodial parent submits an affidavit as described in subsection (b);

the court may grant, without notice, a temporary restraining order restraining the custodial parent from further violation of the parenting time order.

(b) In the affidavit, the noncustodial parent shall state under penalties for perjury:

(1) that the noncustodial parent has been granted parenting time rights with the child; and

(2) that the noncustodial parent regularly pays the support ordered by a court for the child.

(c) The court shall hold a hearing upon the restraining order at the earliest convenience of the court.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.68-2005, SEC.25.
Ind. Code § 31-26-6-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-26-6-11
Transmission of plan by regional services council; action on plan by director of department
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. (a) Each regional services council shall transmit to the director each plan it develops and approves. The council shall transmit its biennial plan described in section 5 of this chapter to the director not later than February 2 of each even-numbered year.

(b) Not later than sixty (60) days after receiving the plan, the director of the department or the director's designee shall do one (1) of the following:

(1) Approve the plan as submitted by the council.

(2) Approve the plan with amendments, modifications, or revisions.

(3) Return the plan to the council with directions concerning:

(A) subjects for further study and reconsideration; and

(B) resubmission of a revised plan.

As added by P.L.146-2008, SEC.571.
Ind. Code § 31-27-5-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-27-5-9
Issuance of license
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. The department shall issue a license to a person who meets all of the license requirements when an investigation shows the applicant to be in compliance under this article.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-39-2-6.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-39-2-6.5
Release of court records
Status: in_force

Sec. 6.5. A juvenile court may release court records to an entity listed in IC 31-39-9-1 without a court order.

As added by P.L.67-2007, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-14-21-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-14-21-2
Nonapplicability of IC 31-14-21-1 through IC 31-14-21-7
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. Sections 1 through 7 of this chapter do not apply to a man whose paternity of a child is established before the filing of a petition to adopt the man's child.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-39-2-13.8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-39-2-13.8
School's access to juvenile court records; notice; confidentiality
Status: in_force

Sec. 13.8. (a) The juvenile court may grant a school access to all or a portion of the juvenile court records of a child who is a student at the school if:

(1) the superintendent, or the superintendent's designee;

(2) the chief administrative officer of a nonpublic school, or the chief administrative officer's designee; or

(3) the individual with administrative control within a charter school, or the individual's designee;

submits a written request that meets the requirements of subsection (b).

(b) A written request must establish that the juvenile court records described in subsection (a) are necessary for the school to:

(1) serve the educational needs of the child whose records are being released; or

(2) protect the safety or health of a student, an employee, or a volunteer at the school.

(c) A juvenile court that releases juvenile court records under this section shall provide notice to the child and to the child's parent, guardian, or custodian that the child's juvenile records have been disclosed to the school.

(d) A juvenile court that releases juvenile court records under this section shall issue an order requiring the school to keep the juvenile court records confidential. A confidentiality order issued under this subsection does not prohibit a school that receives juvenile court records from forwarding the juvenile records to:

(1) another school;

(2) a person if a parent, guardian, or custodian of the child consents to the release of the juvenile court records to the person; or

(3) an entity listed in IC 31-39-9-1.

A school or a person that receives juvenile court records under this subsection must keep the juvenile court records confidential.

As added by P.L.85-2004, SEC.51. Amended by P.L.67-2007, SEC.5.
Ind. Code § 31-32-2-3.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-32-2-3.5
Right of attendance at hearings
Status: in_force

Sec. 3.5. An individual with whom a child is placed, or a representative of a licensed child placing agency (as defined in IC 31-9-2.1-46) that is providing services to a child, during child in need of services proceedings regarding the child is entitled to attend, in its entirety, any hearing conducted as part of:

(1) the child in need of services proceedings; or

(2) proceedings to terminate the parent-child relationship resulting from a petition filed with regard to the child under IC 31-35-2-4 during the child in need of services proceedings.

As added by P.L.179-2025, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.145-2026, SEC.192.
Ind. Code § 31-25-4-27 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-25-4-27
Rules implementing Title IV-D
Status: in_force

Sec. 27. The director of the department shall adopt rules necessary to implement Title IV-D of the federal Social Security Act and this chapter. The department shall send a copy of each proposed or adopted rule to the interim study committee on public health, behavioral health, and human services established by IC 2-5-1.3-4 not later than ten (10) days after proposal or adoption.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271. Amended by P.L.53-2014, SEC.144; P.L.5-2015, SEC.64.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-243 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-243
"Therapeutic foster family home"
Status: in_force

Sec. 243. "Therapeutic foster family home", for purposes of IC 31-27, means a foster family home:

(1) that provides care to:

(A) a child; or

(B) an individual at least eighteen (18) but less than twenty-one (21) years of age receiving collaborative care under IC 31-28-5.8;

who has serious emotional disturbances, significant behavioral health needs and functional impairments, or developmental or physical disabilities;

(2) in which the child or individual receives treatment in a family home through an integrated array of services supervised and supported by qualified program staff from:

(A) the department of child services;

(B) a managed care provider that contracts with the division of mental health and addiction; or

(C) a licensed child placing agency; and

(3) that meets the additional requirements of IC 31-27-4-2.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-41-1-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 41 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-41-1-1
Application of definitions
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. The definitions in this chapter apply throughout this article.

As added by P.L.66-2015, SEC.17.
Ind. Code § 31-11-7-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-11-7-1
Abolition of legal disabilities of married women to make contracts
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. All legal disabilities of a married woman to make contracts are abolished.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-10-1.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-26-6-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-26-6-3
"Service region"
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. As used in this chapter, "service region" means an area of Indiana consisting of one (1) or more counties.

As added by P.L.146-2008, SEC.571.
Ind. Code § 31-14-5-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-14-5-2
Petition by minors and incompetent persons; time for filing petition; tolling of limitations during period of incompetency
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) A person less than eighteen (18) years of age may file a petition if the person is competent except for the person's age. A person who is otherwise incompetent may file a petition through the person's guardian, guardian ad litem, or next friend.

(b) Except as provided in subsection (c), a child may file a paternity petition at any time before the child reaches twenty (20) years of age.

(c) If a child is incompetent on the child's eighteenth birthday, the child may file a petition not later than two (2) years after the child becomes competent.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citations: 31-6-6.1-2(a) part; 31-6-6.1-6(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-26-4-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-26-4-10-b
Repealed
Status: repealed

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

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.272. Repealed by P.L.152-2026, SEC.461.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-83 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-83
"Dissolution decree"
Status: in_force

Sec. 83. "Dissolution decree", for purposes of IC 31-15, IC 31-16, and IC 31-17, means a judicial decree entered in a proceeding for the dissolution of marriage which:

(1) has the effect of terminating the marriage and restoring the parties to the state of unmarried persons; and

(2) may include those matters set forth in IC 31-15-2-16.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-40-1-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 40 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-40-1-6
Contracts for enforcement and collection of parental reimbursement obligations
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. (a) The department may contract with any of the following, on terms and conditions with respect to compensation and payment or reimbursement of expenses as the department may determine, for the enforcement and collection of any parental reimbursement obligation established by order entered by the court under section 3 or 5(g) of this chapter:

(1) The prosecuting attorney of the county in which the juvenile court that ordered or approved the services is located or in which the obligor resides.

(2) An attorney licensed to practice law in Indiana, if the attorney is not an employee of the department.

(3) A private collection agency licensed under IC 25-11.

(b) A contract entered into under this section is subject to approval under IC 4-13-2-14.1.

(c) Any fee payable to a prosecuting attorney under a contract under subsection (a)(1) shall be deposited in the county general fund and credited to a separate account identified as the prosecuting attorney's child services collections account. The prosecuting attorney may expend funds credited to the prosecuting attorney's child services collections account, without appropriation, only for the purpose of supporting and enhancing the functions of the prosecuting attorney in enforcement and collection of parental obligations to reimburse the department.

(d) Contracts between a prosecuting attorney, a private attorney, or a collection agency licensed under IC 25-11 and the department:

(1) must:

(A) be in writing;

(B) include:

(i) all fees, charges, and costs, including administrative and application fees; and

(ii) the right of the department to cancel the contract at any time;

(C) require the prosecuting attorney, private attorney, or collection agency, upon the request of the department, to provide the:

(i) source of each payment received for a parental reimbursement order;

(ii) form of each payment received for a parental reimbursement order; and

(iii) amount and percentage that is deducted as a fee or a charge from each payment on the parental reimbursement order; and

(D) have a term of not more than four (4) years; and

(2) may be negotiable contingency contracts in which a prosecuting attorney, private attorney, or collection agency may not collect a fee that exceeds fifteen percent (15%) of the parental reimbursement collected per case.

(e) A prosecuting attorney, private attorney, or collection agency that contracts with the department under this section may, in addition to the collection of the parental reimbursement order, assess and collect from an obligor all fees, charges, costs, and other expenses as provided under the terms of the contract described in subsection (d).

As added by P.L.273-1999, SEC.122. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.363; P.L.146-2008, SEC.670; P.L.182-2009(ss), SEC.389.
Ind. Code § 31-33-18.5-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 18.5 / Section 31-33-18.5-3
Publication of summary report regarding child fatality or near fatality
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Not later than ninety (90) days after the date on which the department's report for a case involving a child fatality or near fatality is completed, the department shall provide to the public a summary report that includes the following:

(1) Any actions taken by the department in response to the case, including changes in policies or practices that have been made to address any issues raised in the review of the case.

(2) Information prescribed in section 4 of this chapter.

As added by P.L.84-2026, SEC.14.
Ind. Code § 31-28-5.8-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 28 / Chapter 5.8 / Section 31-28-5.8-5
Eligibility; petitions
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. (a) An older youth who received foster care under a court order on the day the individual attains eighteen (18) years of age is eligible to receive collaborative care services under applicable rules of the department at any time until the individual becomes twenty-one (21) years of age.

(b) An older youth may request the department to petition a juvenile court for approval of a collaborative care agreement under this chapter.

(c) A court may grant a petition described in subsection (b) if the court finds, consistent with applicable rules of the department, that the older youth is:

(1) employed;

(2) attending school or a vocational or educational certification or degree program;

(3) participating in a program or activity designed to promote, or remove barriers to, employment; or

(4) incapable of performing any of the activities in subdivisions (1) through (3) due to a medical condition documented by regularly updated information in the older youth's current case plan.

(d) A child who:

(1) is at least seventeen (17) years and six (6) months of age;

(2) is receiving foster care under a court order; and

(3) expects to be eligible for collaborative care under this chapter when the child becomes an older youth;

may request the department to start the process of planning for collaborative care under this chapter.

(e) If the governor declares a state of disaster emergency under IC 10-14-3-12, the director of the department, or the director's designee, may allow older youth who are receiving collaborative care services at the time of the declaration to continue to receive collaborative care services for the duration of the state of disaster emergency.

As added by P.L.48-2012, SEC.34. Amended by P.L.104-2015, SEC.28; P.L.198-2019, SEC.5; P.L.214-2021, SEC.2; P.L.9-2022, SEC.65.
Ind. Code § 31-35-3.5-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 3.5 / Section 31-35-3.5-1
Proceedings
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. 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.

As added by P.L.64-2016, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-28-6.7-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 28 / Chapter 6.7 / Section 31-28-6.7-4
Request for release of foster child's Social Security number; approval
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) The department shall approve a request made under this chapter if:

(1) the child lived with the individual making the request in the eighteen (18) months preceding the request; and

(2) the child lived with the individual making the request for:

(A) at least six (6) months in any one (1) calendar year; or

(B) more than one-half (1/2) of the days the child lived in the calendar year if the child was born or died in the calendar year.

(b) If the department approves a request, the department shall:

(1) provide the child's Social Security number to the individual; and

(2) notify the parents of the child that the child's Social Security number has been disclosed under this chapter if parental rights for the child have not been terminated.

As added by P.L.77-2023, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-17-4-2.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-17-4-2.5
Security, bond, or guarantee
Status: in_force

Sec. 2.5. The court may provide in:

(1) a parenting time order; or

(2) a modification to a parenting time order;

for the security, bond, or other guarantee that is satisfactory to the court to secure enforcement of the provisions of the parenting time order.

As added by P.L.171-2001, SEC.13. Amended by P.L.68-2005, SEC.47.
Ind. Code § 31-27-6-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-27-6-11
Probationary status; duration; expiration; extension
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. (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 in the care of the licensee;

(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 in subsection (b); or

(3) revoke the original license.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.146-2006, SEC.40.
Ind. Code § 31-19-2-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-19-2-4
Consent to adoption by petitioner's spouse
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) Except as provided in subsection (b), a petition for adoption by a married person may not be granted unless the husband and wife join in the action.

(b) If the petitioner for adoption is married to the:

(1) biological; or

(2) adoptive;

father or mother of the child, joinder by the father or mother is not necessary if an acknowledged consent to adoption of the biological or adoptive parent is filed with the petition for adoption.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-15-6-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-15-6-1
Appointment
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. A court in a proceeding under this article may appoint:

(1) a guardian ad litem;

(2) a court appointed special advocate; or

(3) both;

for a child at any time.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-30-1-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 30 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-30-1-6
Probate court jurisdiction over guardianship of person less than 18 years of age; additional proceedings
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. (a) Subject to subsections (b) and (c), this article does not prohibit a probate court from exercising its jurisdiction over guardianship of a person who is less than eighteen (18) years of age.

(b) If allegations in the petition for guardianship or allegations produced at guardianship proceedings indicate that the person for whom the guardianship is requested meets the definition of a child in need of services under IC 31-34-1, the probate court on its own motion or at the request of a party shall:

(1) send the petition for guardianship or the record of guardianship to the department of child services; and

(2) direct the department of child services to initiate an assessment to determine whether the person for whom the guardianship is requested is a child in need of services.

(c) The probate court retains jurisdiction over the matter until the juvenile court authorizes the filing of a petition under IC 31-34-9.

(d) If a juvenile court:

(1) issues an order establishing or modifying a guardianship of a minor; and

(2) requests additional proceedings regarding the guardianship of the minor;

the probate court that retains jurisdiction over the case or another appropriate court shall conduct additional proceedings.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-2-1.1(f).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.13. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.275; P.L.162-2011, SEC.40.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-6-14 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-18.5-6-14
Notice to issuing tribunal of modification
Status: in_force

Sec. 14. Within thirty (30) days after issuance of a modified child support order, the party obtaining the modification shall file a certified copy of the order with the issuing tribunal that had continuing, exclusive jurisdiction over the earlier order, and in each tribunal in which the party knows the earlier order has been registered. A party who obtains the order and fails to file a certified copy is subject to appropriate sanctions by a tribunal in which the issue of failure to file arises. The failure to file does not affect the validity or enforceability of the modified order of the new tribunal having continuing, exclusive jurisdiction.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-14-13-6.3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-14-13-6.3
Parent's active duty service not a factor; temporary modification of custody
Status: in_force

Sec. 6.3. (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.28.
Ind. Code § 31-37-8.5-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 8.5 / Section 31-37-8.5-4
Restorative justice services
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. Juvenile diversion may include restorative justice services.

As added by P.L.101-2022, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-14-10-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-14-10-1
Hearing to determine support, custody, and parenting time following initial determination of paternity; order to probation officer to prepare report
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. Upon finding that a man is the child's biological father, the court shall, in the initial determination, conduct a hearing to determine the issues of support, custody, and parenting time. Upon the request of any party or on the court's own motion, the court may order a probation officer to prepare a report to assist the court in determining these matters.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-10(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.68-2005, SEC.15; P.L.146-2008, SEC.555.
Ind. Code § 31-27-3-23 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-27-3-23
Repealed
Status: repealed

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Repealed by P.L.146-2006, SEC.60.
Ind. Code § 31-33-1-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-33-1-1
Purpose of article
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. The purpose of this article is to:

(1) encourage effective reporting of suspected or known incidents of child abuse or neglect;

(2) provide effective child services to quickly investigate reports of child abuse or neglect;

(3) provide protection for an abused or a neglected child from further abuse or neglect;

(4) provide rehabilitative services for an abused or a neglected child and the child's parent, guardian, or custodian; and

(5) establish a centralized statewide child abuse registry and an automated child protection system.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-11-1.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.94.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-72 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-72
"De facto custodian"
Status: in_force

Sec. 72. "De facto custodian", for purposes of IC 31-14-13, IC 31-17-2, and IC 31-34-4, means a person who has been the primary caregiver for, and financial support of, a child who has resided with the person for at least:

(1) six (6) months if the child is less than three (3) years of age; or

(2) one (1) year if the child is at least three (3) years of age.

Any period after a child custody proceeding has been commenced may not be included in determining whether the child has resided with the person for the required minimum period. The term does not include a person providing care for a child in a foster family home (as defined in section 108 of this chapter).

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-25-4-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-25-4-7
Duties of bureau
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. The bureau shall do the following:

(1) Develop and implement the state's plan for the administration of Title IV-D. The plan must comply with all provisions of state law and with the federal statutes and regulations governing the program.

(2) Evaluate formally the quality, efficiency, effectiveness, and scope of services provided under the plan developed and approved by the governor and the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

(3) Control financially the operation of the plan.

(4) Coordinate activities relating to and in compliance with the requirements of the state's reciprocal enforcement of support law of cases being pursued under the state plan. The bureau shall make requests to the United States Department of Health and Human Services Office of Child Support Enforcement for use of the federal parent locator service, the other states' parent locator services, the federal district courts, and the Internal Revenue Service.

(5) Operate the state parent locator service.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271.
Ind. Code § 31-34-12-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-34-12-7
Failure to submit to drug or alcohol test
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) For purposes of an assessment by the department, if:

(1) a parent, guardian, or custodian had care, custody, and control of the child immediately before the child died;

(2) a law enforcement officer or an employee of the department had probable cause to believe the parent, guardian, or custodian was impaired, intoxicated, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol immediately before or at the time of the child's death;

(3) a law enforcement officer or an employee of the department requests, not later than three (3) hours after the death of the child, the parent, guardian, or custodian to submit to a drug or alcohol screen test; and

(4) the parent, guardian, or custodian did not submit to a drug or alcohol screen test within three (3) hours after the request by a law enforcement officer or an employee of the department;

the failure to submit to the drug or alcohol test may be used to determine that the parent, guardian, or custodian was intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the child's death for the purpose of the determination required under IC 31-33-8-12.

(b) Evidence from a drug or alcohol screen test administered under this section is not admissible as evidence in a criminal proceeding.

As added by P.L.131-2009, SEC.63.
Ind. Code § 31-19-16-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 16 / Section 31-19-16-9
Privileges without court approval
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. Postadoption contact privileges are permissible without court approval in an adoption of a child who is less than twelve (12) months of age upon the agreement of the adoptive parents and a birth parent. However, postadoption contact privileges under this section may not include visitation. A postadoption contact agreement under this section:

(1) is not enforceable;

(2) may include contact through photographs, written and verbal updates, and other forms of communication;

(3) does not have to be in writing; and

(4) does not affect the:

(A) validity of a:

(i) consent to an adoption; or

(ii) waiver of notice; or

(B) finality of the adoption.

As added by P.L.196-1997, SEC.10. Amended by P.L.2-1998, SEC.76; P.L.113-2017, SEC.13; P.L.116-2026, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-187 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-187
"Probation or parole"
Status: in_force

Sec. 187. "Probation or parole", for purposes of the Interstate Compact on Juveniles under IC 31-37-23-1, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-37-23-1.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-35-1.5-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 1.5 / Section 31-35-1.5-2
Laws governing procedure
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. Proceedings under this chapter are governed by the procedures prescribed by IC 31-35-1.

As added by P.L.45-2023, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-27-2-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-27-2-8-b
Granting of variances and waivers
Status: in_force

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(f) A waiver may not be granted for an applicant who has been convicted of a nonwaivable offense, as defined in IC 31-9-2-84.8.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.183-2017, SEC.13; P.L.152-2026, SEC.470.
Ind. Code § 31-14-11-15 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-14-11-15
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-16(d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.213-1999, SEC.10; P.L.148-2006, SEC.11; P.L.1-2007, SEC.191; P.L.3-2008, SEC.230; P.L.1-2009, SEC.157. Repealed by P.L.207-2013, SEC.33.
Ind. Code § 31-10-1-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 10 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-10-1-4
Recodification of prior family law and juvenile law
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. The recodification act of the 1997 regular session of the general assembly shall be construed as a recodification of prior family law and juvenile law. Except as provided in section 1(1) and 1(2) of this chapter, if the literal meaning of the recodification act of the 1997 regular session of the general assembly would result in a substantive change in the prior family law and juvenile law, the difference shall be construed as a typographical, spelling, or other clerical error that must be corrected by:

(1) inserting, deleting, or substituting words, punctuation, or other matters of style in the recodification act of the 1997 regular session of the general assembly; or

(2) using any other rule of statutory construction;

as necessary or appropriate to apply the recodification act of the 1997 regular session of the general assembly in a manner that does not result in a substantive change in the law. The principle of statutory construction that a court must apply the literal meaning of an act if the literal meaning of the act is unambiguous does not apply to the recodification act of the 1997 regular session of the general assembly to the extent that the recodification act of the 1997 regular session of the general assembly is not substantively identical to the prior family law and juvenile law.

[1997 Recodification Citation: New.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-15-2-18 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-15-2-18
Name change of woman
Status: in_force

Sec. 18. (a) This section does not apply to a lifetime sex or violent offender.

(b) A woman who desires the restoration of her maiden or previous married name must set out the name she desires to be restored to her in her petition for dissolution as part of the relief sought. The court shall grant the name change upon entering the decree of dissolution.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-18.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7. Amended by P.L.244-2019, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-14-13-2.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-14-13-2.5
Consideration of de facto custodian factors
Status: in_force

Sec. 2.5. (a) This section applies only if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the child has been cared for by a de facto custodian.

(b) In addition to the factors listed in section 2 of this chapter, the court shall consider the following factors in determining custody:

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

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

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

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

(A) seek employment;

(B) work; or

(C) attend school.

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

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

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

As added by P.L.96-1999, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-32-6-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-32-6-3
Certain delinquency proceedings open to public
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Except as provided in section 4 of this chapter, a delinquency proceeding is open to the public whenever a petition alleging that the child has committed an act that would be murder or a felony if committed by an adult is filed under IC 31-37-10.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-10(c).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-7-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-18.5-7-7
Contest of registered support order
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, IC 31-18.5-6-5 through IC 31-18.5-6-8 apply to a contest of a registered Convention support order.

(b) A party contesting a registered Convention support order shall file a contest not later than thirty (30) days after notice of the registration, but if the contesting party does not reside in the United States, the contest must be filed not later than sixty (60) days after notice of the registration.

(c) If the nonregistering party fails to contest the registered Convention support order by the time specified in subsection (b), the order is enforceable.

(d) A contest of a registered Convention support order may be based only on grounds set forth in section 8 of this chapter. The contesting party bears the burden of proof.

(e) In a contest of a registered Convention support order, an Indiana tribunal:

(1) is bound by the findings of fact on which the foreign tribunal based its jurisdiction; and

(2) may not review the merits of the order.

(f) An Indiana tribunal deciding a contest of a registered Convention support order shall promptly notify the parties of its decision.

(g) A challenge or appeal, if any, does not stay the enforcement of a Convention support order unless there are exceptional circumstances.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-19-2-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-19-2-8
Adoption history fee; putative father registry fee
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. Unless the petitioner for adoption seeks under section 1 of this chapter to adopt a person who is at least eighteen (18) years of age, the petitioner for adoption must attach to the petition for adoption:

(1) an adoption history fee of twenty dollars ($20) payable to the Indiana department of health; and

(2) a putative father registry fee of fifty dollars ($50) payable to the Indiana department of health for:

(A) administering the putative father registry established by IC 31-19-5; and

(B) paying for blood or genetic testing in a paternity action in which an adoption is pending in accordance with IC 31-14-21-9.1.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.200-1999, SEC.9; P.L.56-2023, SEC.264.
Ind. Code § 31-26-4.5-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 4.5 / Section 31-26-4.5-6
Financial liability
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. A foster youth is responsible for paying all costs of a policy of automobile insurance. A state or local government agency, foster parent, or entity providing services to a foster youth under a contract or at the direction of a state or local government agency shall not be required to pay any costs associated with a policy of automobile insurance or supervised driving hours and shall not be liable for any damages that result from the foster youth's operation of an automobile owned and insured by the foster youth.

As added by P.L.59-2022, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-16-15-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-16-15-10
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-2-10-12.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.138-2001, SEC.12; P.L.234-2005, SEC.89; P.L.148-2006, SEC.22. Repealed by P.L.103-2007, SEC.51.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-221 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-221
"Secure detention facility"
Status: in_force

Sec. 221. "Secure detention facility", for purposes of this title, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-40-1-1.5.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-14-16-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 16 / Section 31-14-16-8
Repealed
Status: repealed

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Repealed by P.L.133-2002, SEC.69.
Ind. Code § 31-19-16.5-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 16.5 / Section 31-19-16.5-7
Violation of order; prohibited penalties
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. The court may not:

(1) award monetary damages; or

(2) revoke an adoption decree;

if the court finds that a postadoption contact order entered under this chapter has been violated.

As added by P.L.196-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-28-6.7-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 28 / Chapter 6.7 / Section 31-28-6.7-1
Request for release of foster child's Social Security number
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. Subject to section 2 of this chapter, an individual may complete a form requesting that the department release a child's Social Security number if the following criteria are met:

(1) The individual:

(A) provides or has provided care and supervision to the child under a court order for purposes of placement in a child in need of services case or juvenile delinquency case; and

(B) wishes to claim the child as a dependent for income tax purposes.

(2) The child was placed in the individual's home by:

(A) a court order; or

(B) the department.

As added by P.L.77-2023, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-35-3.5-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 3.5 / Section 31-35-3.5-11
Court shall stay proceedings until disposition of any other pending petition to terminate parental rights with respect to the same child
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. If a court receives a notice from the department of child services under section 10(b) of this chapter, the court shall stay the proceeding for termination of the parent-child relationship until the court in which the child in need of services petition is pending enters a dispositional decree.

As added by P.L.64-2016, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-153 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-153
"Licensee"
Status: in_force

Sec. 153. "Licensee", for purposes of IC 31-27, means a person who holds a valid license issued under IC 31-27.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-19-9-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-19-9-8
Consent to adoption not required; written denial of paternity precludes challenge to adoption
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. (a) Consent to adoption, which may be required under section 1 of this chapter, is not required from any of the following:

(1) A parent or parents if the child is adjudged to have been abandoned or deserted for at least six (6) months immediately preceding the date of the filing of the petition for adoption.

(2) A parent of a child in the custody of another person if for a period of at least one (1) year the parent:

(A) fails without justifiable cause to communicate significantly with the child when able to do so; or

(B) knowingly fails to provide for the care and support of the child when able to do so as required by law or judicial decree.

(3) The biological father of a child born out of wedlock whose paternity has not been established:

(A) by a court proceeding other than the adoption proceeding; or

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

(4) The biological father of a child born out of wedlock who was conceived as a result of:

(A) a rape for which the father was convicted under IC 35-42-4-1;

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

(C) sexual misconduct with a minor (IC 35-42-4-9); or

(D) incest (IC 35-46-1-3).

(5) The putative father of a child born out of wedlock if the putative father's consent to adoption is irrevocably implied under section 15 of this chapter.

(6) The biological father of a child born out of wedlock if the:

(A) father's paternity is established after the filing of a petition for adoption in a court proceeding or by executing a paternity affidavit under IC 16-37-2-2.1; and

(B) father is required to but does not register with the putative father registry established by IC 31-19-5 within the period required by IC 31-19-5-12.

(7) A parent who has relinquished the parent's right to consent to adoption as provided in this chapter.

(8) A parent after the parent-child relationship has been terminated under IC 31-35 (or IC 31-6-5 before its repeal).

(9) A parent judicially declared incompetent or mentally defective if the court dispenses with the parent's consent to adoption.

(10) A legal guardian or lawful custodian of the person to be adopted who has failed to consent to the adoption for reasons found by the court not to be in the best interests of the child.

(11) A parent if:

(A) a petitioner for adoption proves by clear and convincing evidence that the parent is unfit to be a parent; and

(B) the best interests of the child sought to be adopted would be served if the court dispensed with the parent's consent.

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

(A) is in writing;

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

(C) contains an acknowledgment that:

(i) the denial of paternity is irrevocable; and

(ii) the child's father will not receive notice of adoption proceedings.

A child's father who denies paternity of the child under this subdivision may not challenge or contest the child's adoption.

(13) A deceased person.

(b) If a parent has made only token efforts to support or to communicate with the child the court may declare the child abandoned by the parent.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.197-1997, SEC.18; P.L.61-2003, SEC.11; P.L.130-2005, SEC.5; P.L.113-2017, SEC.5; P.L.142-2020, SEC.35; P.L.89-2023, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-27-6-15.8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-27-6-15.8
Personnel; policies and practices
Status: in_force

Sec. 15.8. (a) A child placing agency shall employ a sufficient number of office staff members to properly maintain office administrative procedures on a current basis.

(b) A child placing agency shall adopt specific written policies regarding personnel practices affecting staff members of the agency.

As added by P.L.109-2024, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-27-3-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-27-3-2
Conditions for issuance of license
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) A license may be issued only if the child caring institution is in substantial compliance with food, health, safety, and sanitation standards under rules adopted by the department under IC 31-27-2-4 or in accordance with a variance or waiver approved by the department under IC 31-27-2-8.

(b) Prior to the department issuing an initial license to an applicant, the child caring institution must be inspected and found to be in substantial compliance with applicable building and fire safety laws by the department of homeland security.

(c) Upon receipt of the initial application for a license:

(1) the department shall notify the department of homeland security of the application; and

(2) the department of homeland security shall inspect the child caring institution.

(d) Except as provided in subsection (e), the department may not issue a license under this chapter unless the child caring institution is staffed by, when children are being cared for, at least one (1) child care provider who is annually certified in a program on pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation and pediatric airway obstruction under the American Heart Association's Basic Life Support Course D or any other comparable course approved by the department.

(e) The requirement under subsection (d) does not apply to a child caring institution that only serves children who are at least thirteen (13) years of age and less than twenty-one (21) years of age. However, a child caring institution that only serves children who are at least thirteen (13) years of age and less than twenty-one (21) years of age must have on duty, when children are being cared for, at least one (1) child care provider who is annually certified in a program on cardiopulmonary resuscitation as required by the department.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.28-2026, SEC.39.
Ind. Code § 31-17-3.5-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 3.5 / Section 31-17-3.5-3
Forfeiture; use of proceeds
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Upon forfeiture, the proceeds of security, a bond, or other guarantee ordered to secure enforcement of a custody order or 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; or

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

As added by P.L.171-2001, SEC.10. Amended by P.L.68-2005, SEC.43.
Ind. Code § 31-37-17-1.2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 17 / Section 31-37-17-1.2
Mandatory attendance of child's school representative at conference
Status: in_force

Sec. 1.2. If a delinquent child is known to be eligible for special education services or placement under IC 20-35-2 and 511 IAC 7, the conference described in section 1.1 of this chapter must include a representative from the child's school.

As added by P.L.55-1997, SEC.27. Amended by P.L.1-2005, SEC.210.
Ind. Code § 31-32-6-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-32-6-4
Closing of proceeding to protect child witness or child victim; motion
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) Upon motion of the prosecuting attorney, the child, or the child's guardian ad litem, counsel, parent, guardian, or custodian, the court may issue an order closing a proceeding during the testimony of a child witness or child victim if the court finds that:

(1) an allegation or a defense involves matters of a sexual nature; and

(2) closing the proceeding is necessary to protect the welfare of a child witness or child victim.

(b) Upon motion of the prosecuting attorney, the child, or the child's guardian ad litem, counsel, parent, guardian, or custodian, the court may issue an order closing a proceeding during the testimony of a health care provider if the court finds that:

(1) the testimony involves matters that would be protected under 45 CFR Parts 160 and 164 (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA)); or

(2) the testimony involves matters that would be a privileged communication between a health care provider and the health care provider's patient.

(c) Upon motion of the prosecuting attorney, the child, or the child's guardian ad litem, counsel, parent, guardian, or custodian, the court may issue an order closing a proceeding during the testimony of:

(1) a:

(A) certified social worker;

(B) certified clinical social worker; or

(C) certified marriage and family therapist;

regarding a client;

(2) a school counselor regarding a student; or

(3) a school psychologist regarding a student.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-10(d).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15. Amended by P.L.170-2009, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-37-9-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-37-9-2
Consent; payment for services
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. The child and the child's parent, guardian, custodian, or attorney must consent to the program of informal adjustment. Before payment for services to the family may be paid, written consent must also be obtained from the department.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.146-2008, SEC.630.
Ind. Code § 31-33-18-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 18 / Section 31-33-18-1
Confidentiality; exceptions
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) Except as provided in sections 1.5 and 1.6 of this chapter and IC 31-33-18.5, the following are confidential:

(1) Reports made under this article (or IC 31-6-11 before its repeal).

(2) Any other information, documents, reports, pictures, videos, images, or recordings obtained, possessed, produced, or created by:

(A) the division of family resources;

(B) the local office;

(C) the department; or

(D) the department of child services ombudsman established by IC 4-13-19-3;

concerning a child or family with whom the department has received a report or referral or has been involved with during any stage of the department's investigation, including post-assessment or post-adoption activity.

(b) Except as provided in sections 1.5 and 1.6 of this chapter and IC 31-33-18.5, all records held by:

(1) the division of family resources;

(2) a local office;

(3) the department;

(4) a local child fatality review team established under IC 16-49-2;

(5) the statewide child fatality review committee established under IC 16-49-4; or

(6) the department of child services ombudsman established by IC 4-13-19-3;

regarding the death of a child determined to be a result of abuse, abandonment, or neglect are confidential and may not be disclosed.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-11-18(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.70-2004, SEC.14; P.L.234-2005, SEC.153; P.L.145-2006, SEC.283; P.L.182-2009(ss), SEC.378; P.L.128-2012, SEC.153; P.L.119-2013, SEC.10; P.L.77-2023, SEC.8; P.L.84-2026, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-30-3-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 30 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-30-3-1
Waiver of jurisdiction defined
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. Waiver of jurisdiction refers to an order of the juvenile court that waives the case to a court that would have jurisdiction had the act been committed by an adult. Waiver is for the offense charged and all included offenses.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-37-12-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-37-12-5
Duty to inform child and parent, guardian, or custodian regarding nature of allegations, child's legal rights, jurisdiction, and dispositional alternatives
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. The juvenile court shall inform the child and the child's parent, guardian, or custodian, if the person is present, of the following:

(1) The nature of the allegations against the child.

(2) The child's right to the following:

(A) Be represented by counsel.

(B) Have a speedy trial.

(C) Confront witnesses against the child.

(D) Cross-examine witnesses against the child.

(E) Obtain witnesses or tangible evidence by compulsory process.

(F) Introduce evidence on the child's own behalf.

(G) Refrain from testifying against himself or herself.

(H) Have the state prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the child committed the delinquent act charged.

(3) The possibility of waiver to a court having criminal jurisdiction.

(4) The dispositional alternatives available to the juvenile court if the child is adjudicated a delinquent child.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-27-5-30 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-27-5-30
Expiration of injunctions for noncompliance
Status: in_force

Sec. 30. A court order granted under section 29(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 departmental decision is issued under sections 20 through 21 of this chapter if notice of an enforcement action is issued under section 19 of this chapter.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.126.
Ind. Code § 31-19-25-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 25 / Section 31-19-25-2
Requirements for release of identifying information
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) The following may request the release of identifying information:

(1) An adoptee who is an adult.

(2) A birth parent.

(3) An adoptive parent.

(4) The spouse or relative of a deceased adoptee.

(5) The spouse or relative of a deceased birth parent.

(b) Except as otherwise provided under this chapter, upon a request for the release of identifying information under subsection (a):

(1) the state registrar;

(2) the department;

(3) a local office;

(4) a licensed child placing agency;

(5) a professional health care provider;

(6) the attorney who arranged the adoption; and

(7) a court;

shall release identifying information in the person's possession to the individual requesting the release of identifying information only if the adoptee has submitted a written consent under IC 31-19-21 to the state registrar or the person from whom the release of identifying information is requested for release of identifying information to the individual requesting the release of identifying information.

(c) A person releasing identifying information under subsection (b) shall, upon request by the individual requesting the identifying information, provide copies of the identifying information to the requesting individual described under subsection (a).

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.1-1998, SEC.165; P.L.145-2006, SEC.260; P.L.191-2011, SEC.41; P.L.128-2012, SEC.75; P.L.217-2019, SEC.1.
Ind. Code § 31-19-11-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-19-11-7
Forward copy of adoption decree
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. If a court determines that an adopted child is the subject of an order to pay child support or to provide medical support being enforced by the state under IC 31-25-4-13.1, the court shall direct the clerk of the court to forward a certified copy of the adoption decree to all the following:

(1) The court with jurisdiction over the child support order.

(2) The clerk of the court in which the child support order resides.

(3) The prosecuting attorney enforcing the child support order, if the order is enforced through the Title IV-D child support program.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.55.
Ind. Code § 31-33-18-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 18 / Section 31-33-18-3
Disclosure to qualified researchers
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) Section 2 of this chapter does not prevent the local office or the department from disclosing to a qualified individual engaged in a good faith research project either:

(1) information of a general nature, including the incidents of reported child abuse or neglect or other statistical or social data used in connection with studies, reports, or surveys, and information related to their function and activities; or

(2) information relating to case histories of child abuse or neglect if:

(A) the information disclosed does not identify or reasonably tend to identify the persons involved; and

(B) the information is not a subject of pending litigation.

(b) To implement this section, the department shall adopt under IC 4-22-2 rules to govern the dissemination of information to qualifying researchers.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-11-18(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.234-2005, SEC.156; P.L.128-2012, SEC.155.
Ind. Code § 31-15-7-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-15-7-9
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-17(b) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7. Repealed by P.L.197-1997, SEC.29.
Ind. Code § 31-37-19-21 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-37-19-21
Juvenile detention facility confining child for more than 30 days; criteria
Status: in_force

Sec. 21. As part of a dispositional decree, a child may only be confined in a juvenile detention facility for more than thirty (30) days if the facility meets the following criteria:

(1) The facility provides to delinquent children a program that includes recreation, education, counseling, and health care.

(2) The program provides services and treatment to:

(A) meet the individual needs of the delinquent child;

(B) involve the delinquent child's family if possible; and

(C) provide transitional services for delinquent children returning to community placement.

(3) The program must be administered and operated by staff who are qualified through education and training to provide rehabilitation and treatment.

(4) The juvenile detention facility must meet the state standards and licensing requirements established by 210 IAC 6.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-27-5-32 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-27-5-32
Compliance with rules; disciplinary sanctions; revocation of license
Status: in_force

Sec. 32. (a) A licensee shall operate a group home in compliance with the rules established under this article and is subject to the disciplinary sanctions under subsection (b) if the department finds that the licensee has violated this article or a rule adopted under this article.

(b) After complying with the procedural provisions in sections 19 through 21 of this chapter, the department may revoke the license when the department finds that a licensee has committed a violation under subsection (a).

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.146-2006, SEC.38; P.L.128-2012, SEC.127.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-241 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-241
"Surrogate agreement"
Status: in_force

Sec. 241. "Surrogate agreement", for purposes of IC 31-20, means an agreement that is entered into before the birth of a child between a surrogate and one (1) or more parties and that is intended by the parties at the time that the agreement is made to induce the surrogate to relinquish care, custody, and control over the child at birth to any of the following:

(1) An intended biological parent of the child.

(2) An intended biological parent of the child and another person who is not:

(A) genetically related to the child; and

(B) the surrogate's spouse.

(3) Two (2) intended biological parents of the child.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-26-3.5-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 3.5 / Section 31-26-3.5-3
Application to establish, continue, or modify program
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) An application to establish a new child welfare program, or to continue or modify an existing child welfare program, may be submitted by a court, county executive, private nonprofit agency or organization, or an interested person based on guidelines and instructions issued by the department. Except as provided in subsection (b), the application shall be transmitted to the regional services council or councils for the county, region, or geographic area of Indiana that the applicant proposes to serve. Each regional services council must review and submit its recommendations to the director in conformity with procedures established by the department.

(b) An application to establish, continue, or modify a program that will operate on a statewide basis shall be submitted directly to the director of the department for review and evaluation.

As added by P.L.146-2008, SEC.570.
Ind. Code § 31-37-4-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-37-4-4
Access for inspections and monitoring of facilities that house or hold juveniles
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. Any facility that is used or has been used to house or hold juveniles shall give a representative or designee of the Indiana criminal justice institute's compliance monitoring program reasonable access to inspect and monitor the facility to ensure that the requirements of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act are maintained.

As added by P.L.67-2008, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-162.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-162.5
"Near fatality"
Status: in_force

Sec. 162.5. "Near fatality", for purposes of IC 31-33-18.5, means a severe childhood injury or condition that is certified by a physician as being life threatening.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-37-19-26 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-37-19-26
Determination and reporting of legal settlement
Status: in_force

Sec. 26. (a) This section applies if a juvenile court:

(1) places a child;

(2) changes the placement of a child; or

(3) reviews the implementation of a decree under IC 31-37-20 (or IC 31-6-4-19 before its repeal) of a child placed;

in a state licensed private or public health care facility, child care facility, foster family home, or the home of a relative or other unlicensed caretaker.

(b) The juvenile court shall do the following:

(1) Make findings of fact concerning the legal settlement of the child.

(2) Apply IC 20-26-11-2(a)(1) through IC 20-26-11-2(a)(8) to determine where the child has legal settlement.

(3) Include the findings of fact required by this section in the:

(A) dispositional order;

(B) modification order; or

(C) other decree;

making or changing the placement of the child.

(c) The juvenile court may determine that the legal settlement of the child is in the school corporation in which the child will attend school under IC 20-26-11-8(d).

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

(e) The juvenile court may place a child in a public school, regardless of whether the public school has a waiting list for admissions, if the court determines that the school's program meets the child's educational needs and the school agrees to the placement. A placement under this subsection does not affect the legal settlement of the child.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.1-2005, SEC.211; P.L.13-2006, SEC.6; P.L.159-2007, SEC.6; P.L.65-2012, SEC.7; P.L.160-2012, SEC.58; P.L.38-2020, SEC.14.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-191 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-191
"Prosecuting attorney"
Status: in_force

Sec. 191. "Prosecuting attorney", for purposes of the juvenile law, means the prosecuting attorney or the prosecuting attorney's deputy.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-37-17-1.4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 17 / Section 31-37-17-1.4
Referral of predispositional report to department; review of predispositional report by department; concurrence or alternative proposal
Status: in_force

Sec. 1.4. (a) If the predispositional report includes a recommended placement, program, or services that would be payable by the department under IC 31-40-1-2, a probation officer shall refer the officer's completed predispositional report, except for the statement required under section 1(a)(4) of this chapter, to the department within a reasonable time before its required disclosure under section 6 of this chapter to allow the department time to:

(1) review; and

(2) either concur with or offer an alternative proposal to the recommendations in;

the predispositional report.

(b) The department shall, after review of the predispositional report and any attachments necessary to verify the predispositional report, and within a reasonable time before the dispositional hearing, either:

(1) concur with the predispositional report; or

(2) communicate to the probation officer an alternative proposal regarding programs and services.

As added by P.L.146-2008, SEC.639.
Ind. Code § 31-11-3-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-11-3-10
Tolling of statute of limitations during marriage; equitable defenses
Status: in_force

Sec. 10. Any statute of limitations applicable to an action asserting a claim for relief under a premarital agreement is tolled during the marriage of the parties to the agreement. However, equitable defenses limiting the time for enforcement, including laches and estoppel, are available to either party.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-2.5-10.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-12-1-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 12 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-12-1-10
Referee's duties
Status: in_force

Sec. 10. A domestic relations referee shall perform such duties as the judge of the domestic relations court assigns to the referee.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-23-6 part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-37-8.5-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 8.5 / Section 31-37-8.5-5
Program completion
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. (a) If the child successfully completes the terms of diversion, a petition shall not be filed with the court and no further action shall be taken.

(b) If the child fails to complete the terms of diversion or commits a new offense, juvenile probation shall inform the prosecuting attorney at least fourteen (14) days prior to the end of the child's juvenile diversion.

(c) If the child fails to complete the terms of the juvenile diversion described in this chapter, the prosecuting attorney may petition the juvenile court for authorization to file a delinquency petition.

(d) Unless a delinquency petition is filed as described in subsection (c), the prosecuting attorney shall close the child's file in regard to the diverted matter not later than six (6) months after the date the diversion is initiated.

As added by P.L.101-2022, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 31-33-5-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-33-5-2
Report; exception for delegation of duty to report; notification of individual in charge
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) If an individual is required to make a report under this article in the individual's capacity as a member of the staff of a public or private institution, school, facility, organization, or agency, the individual shall immediately make a report to:

(1) the department; or

(2) the appropriate law enforcement agency.

The individual does not have discretion to decide not to report known or suspected child abuse or neglect, unless a report has already been made and documented by the individual in charge under subsection (d).

(b) An individual required to make a report of known or suspected child abuse or neglect may not delegate the duty to make the report to another individual, unless:

(1) the individual to whom the duty is being delegated is part of the child's care team and has personally been involved in the child's care; and

(2) the notification of suspected child abuse or neglect made to the individual described in subdivision (1) is in writing.

(c) The individual described in subsection (b)(1) shall immediately report the suspected child abuse or neglect to the appropriate law enforcement agency or the department. As soon as possible after making the report to law enforcement or the department, the individual described in subsection (b)(1) shall do the following:

(1) Record in writing that they were notified of suspected child abuse or neglect, including the identity of the person who notified them, the date and time that they received the notification, and the date and time that they reported the suspected child abuse or neglect to law enforcement or the department of child services.

(2) Place or cause to be placed in the child's medical file:

(A) the details included in the report to law enforcement or the department of child services, including the date and time;

(B) the condition of the child at the time the report was made, if known; and

(C) any other relevant and necessary information.

(d) After making the report, the individual required to make the report and the individual described in subsection (b)(1) shall notify the individual in charge of the institution, school, facility, organization, or agency or the designated agent of the individual in charge of the institution, school, facility, organization, or agency that the report was made.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-11-3(b) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16. Amended by P.L.106-2016, SEC.24; P.L.183-2017, SEC.32; P.L.168-2025, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-19-16.5-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 16.5 / Section 31-19-16.5-4
Persons entitled to file petition to vacate or modify order
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. The following persons may file a petition requesting that the court vacate or modify a postadoption contact order with a pre-adoptive sibling or to compel an adoptive parent to comply with the postadoption contact order:

(1) A pre-adoptive sibling by:

(A) next friend; or

(B) guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate.

(2) The adopted child by:

(A) next friend; or

(B) guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate as described in section 5 of this chapter.

(3) An adoptive parent.

As added by P.L.196-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-31-7-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 31 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-31-7-1
Joint or multiple county guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate services
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. Juvenile courts situated in adjacent counties may establish joint or multiple county guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate services to carry out IC 31-34 and IC 31-37.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.14.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-49 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-49
"Child support order"
Status: in_force

Sec. 49. "Child 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 § 31-14-15-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-14-15-3
Security
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) This section does not apply to an order under IC 31-14-13-6.5 or IC 31-14-14-2.5.

(b) A court may not require an applicant for a temporary restraining order or an injunction under this chapter (or IC 31-6-6.1-12.1 before its repeal) to give security.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.171-2001, SEC.6; P.L.207-2013, SEC.43.
Ind. Code § 31-26-1-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-26-1-3
Certification requirements
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. Any organization may apply to the department for certification as a youth service bureau. The department shall establish criteria for the certification of an organization as a youth service bureau, which must include the following requirements:

(1) The organization must be registered with the secretary of state as a nonprofit corporation or must be an agency of a local governmental unit.

(2) The organization must develop and operate direct and indirect service programs designed to do the following:

(A) Support, represent, and protect the rights of young people.

(B) Prevent adolescent misbehavior and divert young people from the justice system.

(C) Maintain a referral system with other service agencies that might benefit young people.

(D) Inform and educate citizens about the functions and services available through the organization and serve as a link between the needs of youth and the community.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.272.
Ind. Code § 31-27-3-20 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-27-3-20
Administrative hearings
Status: in_force

Sec. 20. An administrative hearing concerning the decision of the department to impose a sanction under this chapter shall be provided upon a written request by the child caring institution. The request must be made not more than thirty (30) days after receiving notice under section 19 of this chapter. The written request must be made separately from an informal meeting request made under section 19 of this chapter.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.101.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-216.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-216.5
"Reunification services"
Status: in_force

Sec. 216.5. (a) "Reunification services" means all services that are provided:

(1) to a parent, guardian, or custodian of a child who is the subject of a petition alleging that the child is a child in need of services; and

(2) with the intent of rehabilitating the relationship between the child and the parent, guardian, or custodian.

(b) The term includes services such as:

(1) individual, group, and family counseling;

(2) inpatient, residential, or outpatient substance abuse treatment services;

(3) mental health services;

(4) assistance to address domestic violence;

(5) services designed to provide temporary child care and therapeutic services for families;

(6) peer-to-peer mentoring and support groups for parents and primary caregivers;

(7) services and activities designed to facilitate access to and visitation of children by parents and siblings;

(8) substance abuse treatment and screening; and

(9) transportation to or from any of the services and activities described in this subsection.

(c) The term does not include services provided to a parent, guardian, or custodian of a child while the child is residing in a:

(1) child caring institution;

(2) group home; or

(3) private secure facility;

licensed by the department.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-17-2-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-17-2-9
Court interview of child in chambers
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. (a) The court may interview the child in chambers to ascertain the child's wishes.

(b) The court may permit counsel to be present at the interview. If counsel is present:

(1) a record may be made of the interview; and

(2) the interview may be made part of the record for purposes of appeal.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-11-7-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-11-7-3
Tort liability of married women
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. A married woman is liable for torts committed by the woman.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-10-3.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-34-1-3.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-34-1-3.5
Victim of human or sexual trafficking
Status: in_force

Sec. 3.5. (a) A child is a child in need of services if, before the child becomes eighteen (18) years of age:

(1) the child is the victim of human or sexual trafficking (as defined in IC 31-9-2.1-254); and

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

(A) the child is not receiving; and

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

(b) A child is considered a victim of human or sexual trafficking regardless of whether the child consented to the conduct described in subsection (a)(1).

As added by P.L.46-2016, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.142-2020, SEC.42; P.L.145-2026, SEC.202.
Ind. Code § 31-37-19-17 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 19 / Section 31-37-19-17
Delinquent acts involving criminal vandalism or use of graffiti; suspension of driver's license or invalidation of learner's permit
Status: in_force

Sec. 17. (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 criminal vandalism under IC 35-43-1-2 that involves the use of graffiti.

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

(1) suspend the child's driver's license; or

(2) invalidate the child's learner's permit;

for one (1) year beginning the date of the order.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.111-2021, SEC.100; P.L.132-2026, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-13 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-13
"Adoptive parent"
Status: in_force

Sec. 13. "Adoptive parent", for purposes of IC 31-19-11 and IC 31-19-17 through IC 31-19-25.5, means an adult who has become a parent of a child through adoption.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-19-21-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-19-21-3
Manner of release of identifying and nonidentifying information
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. A holder of information that receives a consent made under this chapter (or IC 31-3-4-27 before its repeal) may release identifying and nonidentifying information only in conformity with:

(1) the last version of the consent filed with the holder; and

(2) IC 31-19-24 through IC 31-19-25.5.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.191-2011, SEC.24; P.L.3-2016, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-39 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-39
"Child care provider"
Status: in_force

Sec. 39. "Child care provider", for purposes of IC 31-33-26, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-33-26-1.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-25-2-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-25-2-11
Powers, responsibilities, and duties
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. (a) Except in cases involving a child who may be a victim of institutional abuse or cases in which police investigation also appears appropriate, the department is the primary public agency responsible for:

(1) receiving;

(2) assessing or arranging for assessment of; and

(3) coordinating the assessment of;

all reports of a child who may be a victim of known or suspected child abuse or neglect.

(b) In accordance with a local plan for child protection services, the department shall, by juvenile court order:

(1) provide protection services to prevent cases where a child may be a victim of further child abuse or neglect; and

(2) provide for or arrange for and coordinate and monitor the provision of the services necessary to ensure the safety of children.

(c) Reasonable efforts must be made to provide family services designed to prevent a child's removal from the child's parent, guardian, or custodian.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271. Amended by P.L.131-2009, SEC.31.
Ind. Code § 31-39-2-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 39 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-39-2-3
Party and party's counsel
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) Except as provided in subsections (b) and (c), the records of the juvenile court are available without a court order to any party and the party's attorney. The party and the party's attorney may only review the records applicable to the proceeding in which the person is a party.

(b) A child excluded from a hearing under IC 31-32-6 may be denied access to records pertaining to that subject matter.

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

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.22.
Ind. Code § 31-19-27-1.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 27 / Section 31-19-27-1.5
Hard to place child; eligibility for adoption subsidies
Status: in_force

Sec. 1.5. The department shall consider a child who is a ward of the department a hard to place child for determining eligibility for state adoption subsidies under IC 31-19-26.5.

As added by P.L.42-2009, SEC.3. Amended by P.L.46-2024, SEC.8.
Ind. Code § 31-12-1-16 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 12 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-12-1-16
Court of record
Status: in_force

Sec. 16. (a) This section does not apply to counseling proceedings, interviews, conferences, and communications that are confidential under section 14 of this chapter.

(b) A domestic relations court established under this chapter is a court of record and all proceedings in the court must be of record.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-23-12.]

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

Sec. 4. A person appointed as a part-time juvenile court referee under this chapter must be admitted to the practice of law in Indiana.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-9-2(c) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.14.
Ind. Code § 31-12-1-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 12 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-12-1-6
Duty of clerk of judicial circuit court to file cases in domestic relations court
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. The clerk of the courts in a judicial circuit in which a domestic relations court is established shall file all cases listed in section 4(a) of this chapter in the domestic relations court.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.4.
Ind. Code § 31-40-1-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 40 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-40-1-1
Application of article
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. This article applies to costs paid by the department, the department of correction, and counties under this chapter, including costs resulting from the institutional placement of a child adjudicated a delinquent child or a child in need of services.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.23. Amended by P.L.146-2008, SEC.663; P.L.204-2011, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-26-1-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-26-1-8
Rules; application procedures and evaluation criteria; certification and grants
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. The department may adopt rules under IC 4-22-2 establishing application procedures and evaluation criteria for organizations applying for certification and grants under this chapter.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.272.
Ind. Code § 31-28-5-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 28 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-28-5-2
Promotion of sibling visitation
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. The department shall make reasonable efforts to promote sibling visitation for every child who receives foster care, including visitation when one (1) sibling receives foster care and another sibling does not.

As added by P.L.133-2008, SEC.10.
Ind. Code § 31-30-1-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 30 / Chapter 1 / Section 31-30-1-9
Concurrent original jurisdiction of act that would be murder or felony by child who left Indiana; transfer following extradition
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. (a) A court having felony jurisdiction has concurrent original jurisdiction with the juvenile court if there is probable cause to believe that:

(1) a child has committed an act that would be murder or a felony if committed by an adult;

(2) the child has left Indiana; and

(3) the state cannot obtain jurisdiction over the child in any other lawful manner except under the proceedings authorized for the extradition of alleged felons.

(b) Upon the return of any child under the criminal extradition law, the court having felony jurisdiction shall immediately transfer the child to the juvenile court under section 11 of this chapter.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-2-1.5(a), (b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-27-3-17 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-27-3-17
Sprinkler system requirements
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. 17. The fire prevention and building safety commission may not adopt rules requiring the installation of a sprinkler system in a living unit of a licensed child caring institution in which fewer than sixteen (16) children reside, each of whom is:

(1) ambulatory; and

(2) at least six (6) years of age.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273.
Ind. Code § 31-37-20-4.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 20 / Section 31-37-20-4.5
Notice of hearing; opportunity to be heard
Status: in_force

Sec. 4.5. (a) At least ten (10) days before a hearing under section 2 or 3 of this chapter, the probation department shall send notice of the hearing to each of the following:

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

(2) An attorney who has entered an appearance on behalf of the child's parent, guardian, or custodian.

(3) The child or an attorney who has entered an appearance on behalf of the child.

(4) A prospective adoptive parent named in a petition for adoption of the child filed under IC 31-19-2 if:

(A) each consent to adoption of the child that is required under IC 31-19-9-1 has been executed in the form and manner required by IC 31-19-9 and filed with the local office;

(B) the court having jurisdiction in the adoption case has determined under any applicable provision of IC 31-19-9 that consent to adoption is not required from a parent, guardian, or custodian; or

(C) a petition to terminate the parent-child relationship between the child and any parent who has not executed a written consent to adoption under IC 31-19-9-2 has been filed under IC 31-35 and is pending.

(5) Any other person who:

(A) the probation department has knowledge is currently providing care for the child; and

(B) is not required to be licensed under IC 12-17.2 or IC 31-27 to provide care for the child.

(6) Any other suitable relative.

(b) The court shall provide to a person described in subsection (a) an opportunity to be heard and to make any recommendations to the court in a hearing under section 2 or 3 of this chapter. The right to be heard and to make recommendations under this subsection includes:

(1) the right of a person described in subsection (a) to submit a written statement to the court that, if served upon all parties to the delinquency proceeding and the persons described in subsection (a), may be made a part of the court record; and

(2) the right to present oral testimony to the court and cross-examine any of the witnesses at the hearing.

(c) This section does not exempt the probation department from sending a notice of the review to each party to the delinquency proceeding.

(d) The court shall continue the hearing if, at the time set for the hearing, the probation department has not provided the court with a signed verification that any person required to be notified under this section has been notified in the manner stated in the verification, unless the person appears for the hearing.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.86. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.175; P.L.123-2014, SEC.28.
Ind. Code § 31-21-7-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-21-7-1
Uniformity of the law
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. In applying and construing this article, consideration must be given to the need to promote uniformity of the law with respect to its subject matter among states that enact it.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-19-9-15 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-19-9-15
When consent of putative father irrevocably implied; additional circumstances
Status: in_force

Sec. 15. (a) The putative father's consent to adoption of the child is irrevocably implied without further court action if the father:

(1) fails to file a paternity action:

(A) under IC 31-14; or

(B) in a court located in another state that is competent to obtain jurisdiction over the paternity action;

not more than fifteen (15) days after receiving actual notice under IC 31-19-3 of the mother's intent to proceed with an adoptive placement of the child, regardless of whether the child is born before or after the expiration of the fifteen (15) day period; or

(2) files a paternity action:

(A) under IC 31-14; or

(B) in a court located in another state that is competent to obtain jurisdiction over the paternity action;

during the fifteen (15) day period prescribed by subdivision (1) and fails to establish paternity in the paternity proceeding under IC 31-14 or the laws applicable to a court of another state when the court obtains jurisdiction over the paternity action.

(b) This section does not prohibit a putative father who meets the requirements of section 17(b) of this chapter from establishing paternity of the child.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.200-1999, SEC.21; P.L.89-2023, SEC.6.
Ind. Code § 31-34-21-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-34-21-4
Notice of case review; testimony in periodic case review
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. (a) Except as provided in subsection (f), at least seven (7) days before the periodic case review, including a case review that is a permanency hearing under section 7 of this chapter, the department shall provide notice of the review to each of the following:

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

(2) An attorney who has entered an appearance on behalf of the child's parent, guardian, or custodian.

(3) A prospective adoptive parent named in a petition for adoption of the child filed under IC 31-19-2 if:

(A) each consent to adoption of the child that is required under IC 31-19-9-1 has been executed in the form and manner required by IC 31-19-9 and filed with the local office;

(B) the court having jurisdiction in the adoption case has determined under any applicable provision of IC 31-19-9 that consent to adoption is not required from a parent, guardian, or custodian; or

(C) a petition to terminate the parent-child relationship between the child and any parent who has not executed a written consent to adoption under IC 31-19-9-2 has been filed under IC 31-35 and is pending.

(4) The child's foster parent or long term foster parent.

(5) Any other person who:

(A) the department has knowledge is currently providing care for the child; and

(B) is not required to be licensed under IC 12-17.2 or IC 31-27 to provide care for the child.

(6) Any other suitable relative or person whom the department knows has had a significant or caretaking relationship to the child.

(b) The department shall present proof of service of the notice required by subsection (a) at the periodic case review.

(c) The department shall provide notices under this section as provided in IC 31-32-1-4.

(d) The court shall provide to a person described in subsection (a) an opportunity to be heard and to make any recommendations to the court in a periodic case review, including a permanency hearing under section 7 of this chapter. The right to be heard and to make recommendations under this subsection includes:

(1) the right of a person described in subsection (a) to submit a written statement to the court that, if served upon all parties to the child in need of services proceeding and the persons described in subsection (a), may be made a part of the court record; and

(2) the right to present oral testimony to the court and cross examine any of the witnesses at the hearing.

(e) The department and the office of judicial administration, in collaboration with foster parents and other stakeholders, shall prepare a form that may be used to provide written testimony to the court under this section. The department shall post the form on the department's website. Foster parents may provide written testimony to the court in a format other than the form described in this subsection.

(f) Except as provided in subsection (g), this section does not exempt the department from sending a notice of the review to each party to the child in need of services proceeding.

(g) If the parent of a safe haven infant does not disclose the parent's name as allowed by IC 31-34-2.5-1(c), the parent is not required to be notified of a proceeding described in subsection (a).

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.35-1998, SEC.10; P.L.133-2000, SEC.6; P.L.217-2001, SEC.9; P.L.152-2003, SEC.2; P.L.145-2006, SEC.316; P.L.72-2008, SEC.3; P.L.128-2012, SEC.167; P.L.210-2019, SEC.12; P.L.30-2025, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-19-21-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 21 / Section 31-19-21-2
Modification or withdrawal of consent
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. A consent made under this chapter (or IC 31-3-4-27 before its repeal) may be:

(1) withdrawn; or

(2) modified;

in a signed writing.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-34-12-4.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 12 / Section 31-34-12-4.5
Presumption that child is child in need of services if child resides with adult who has committed or been charged with specified acts
Status: in_force

Sec. 4.5. (a) There is a rebuttable presumption that a child is a child in need of services if the state establishes that the child lives in the same household as an adult who:

(1) committed an offense described in IC 31-34-1-2, IC 31-34-1-3, or IC 31-34-1-3.5 against a child and the offense resulted in a conviction or a judgment under IC 31-34-11-2;

(2) has been charged with an offense described in IC 31-34-1-2, IC 31-34-1-3, or IC 31-34-1-3.5 against a child and is awaiting trial; or

(3) was a perpetrator of a child fatality or near fatality as described by IC 31-33-18-1.5.

(b) The following may not be used as grounds to rebut the presumption under subsection (a):

(1) The child who is the victim of the offense described in IC 31-34-1-2 or IC 31-34-1-3 is not genetically related to the adult who committed the act, but the child presumed to be the child in need of services under this section is genetically related to the adult who committed the act.

(2) The child who is the victim of the offense described in IC 31-34-1-2 or IC 31-34-1-3 differs in age from the child presumed to be the child in need of services under this section.

(c) This section does not affect the ability to take a child into custody or emergency custody under IC 31-34-2 if the act of taking the child into custody or emergency custody is not based upon a presumption established under this section. However, if the presumption established under this section is the sole basis for taking a child into custody or emergency custody under IC 31-34-2, the court first must find cause to take the child into custody or emergency custody following a hearing in which the parent, guardian, or custodian of the child is accorded the rights described in IC 31-34-4-6(a)(2) through IC 31-34-4-6(a)(5).

As added by P.L.18-2004, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.16-2016, SEC.2; P.L.46-2016, SEC.13; P.L.71-2018, SEC.2; P.L.70-2024, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-35-1.5-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 35 / Chapter 1.5 / Section 31-35-1.5-5
Form of petition
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. Notice of a petition to terminate the parent-child relationship under section 4 of this chapter must be given to:

(1) each known living parent of a child born in wedlock, including a man who is presumed to be the child's biological father under IC 31-14-7-1, in accordance with IC 31-19-2.5-6; and

(2) an unnamed or unknown putative parent;

in substantially the following form:

"NOTICE TO UNNAMED PARENT

The unnamed putative parent of a ______ (gender) infant that was voluntarily surrendered on ______ (date) in __________ (county) and born on approximately _____ (birth date range), or the person who claims to be a parent of the infant, is notified that a petition to terminate the parent-child relationship was filed in the office of the clerk of _____ court, _____ (address of court).

If the unnamed putative parent seeks to contest the petition to terminate the parent-child relationship of the infant, the unnamed putative parent must file a motion to contest the petition in accordance with IC 31-35-1.5-8 in the above named court within twenty-eight (28) days after the date of service of this notice. This notice may be served by publication.

If the unnamed putative parent does not file a motion to contest the adoption within twenty-eight (28) days after service of this notice, the above named court shall hear and determine the petition to terminate the parent-child relationship. The unnamed putative parent's consent is irrevocably implied and the unnamed putative parent loses the right to contest the petition to terminate the parent-child relationship or the validity of the unnamed putative parent's implied consent to the termination of the parent-child relationship. The unnamed putative parent loses the right to establish a biological relationship with the child in Indiana or any other jurisdiction.

Nothing anyone else says to the unnamed putative parent of the infant relieves the unnamed putative parent of his or her obligations under this notice.

Under Indiana law, a putative parent is a person who claims that he or she may be the father or mother of an infant who has been voluntarily surrendered but who has not yet been legally proven to be the child's father or mother.

This notice complies with IC 31-35-1.5-5 but does not exhaustively set forth the unnamed putative parent'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.45-2023, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-16-15-20 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-16-15-20
Payments by clerk or state central collection unit to persons entitled to receive child support
Status: in_force

Sec. 20. (a) This subsection applies before January 1, 2007. The clerk of the court shall:

(1) pay the income forwarded by the income payor to the person entitled to receive child support payments; and

(2) maintain records to monitor and document the receipt and payment of income under this chapter.

(b) Beginning January 1, 2007, the clerk of the court, for cash payments, and the state central collection unit, for noncash payments, shall:

(1) pay the income forwarded by the income payor to the person entitled to receive child support payments; and

(2) maintain records to monitor and document the receipt and payment of income under this chapter.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-2-10-17.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.148-2006, SEC.25.
Ind. Code § 31-16-6-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-16-6-8
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-17(b) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.8. Repealed by P.L.197-1997, SEC.29.
Ind. Code § 31-27-3-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-27-3-5
Grounds for denial of license application; waiver
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. (a) The following constitute sufficient grounds for a denial of a license application:

(1) A determination by the department of child abuse or neglect by:

(A) the applicant; or

(B) an employee, volunteer, or contractor of the applicant.

(2) A criminal conviction of the applicant, or the director or manager of a facility where children will be placed by the applicant, of:

(A) a felony;

(B) a misdemeanor related to the health and safety of a child;

(C) a misdemeanor for operating a child caring institution, foster family home, group home, or child placing agency without a license under this article (or IC 12-17.4 before its repeal); or

(D) a misdemeanor for operating a child care center or child care home without a license under IC 12-17.2.

(3) A determination by the department that the applicant made false statements in the applicant's application for licensure.

(4) A determination by the department that the applicant made false statements in the records required by the department.

(5) A determination by the department that:

(A) the applicant; or

(B) an employee, volunteer, or contractor of the applicant;

previously operated a home or facility without a license required under any applicable provision of this article (or IC 12-17.4 before its repeal) or IC 12-17.2.

(6) A juvenile adjudication of the applicant for a nonwaivable offense, as defined in IC 31-9-2.1-168 that, if committed by an adult, would be a felony.

(7) A determination by the department that the applicant was previously licensed under this article and the license was revoked within one (1) year of the current application.

(b) An application for a license may also be denied if an employee, volunteer, or contractor of the applicant has had any of the following:

(1) A conviction of a nonwaivable offense, as defined in IC 31-9-2.1-168.

(2) A conviction of any other felony or a misdemeanor relating to the health and safety of a child, unless the applicant is granted a waiver by the department with regard to the employee, volunteer, or contractor.

(3) A juvenile adjudication for a nonwaivable offense, as defined in IC 31-9-2.1-168 that, if committed by an adult, would be a felony, unless the applicant is granted a waiver by the department with regard to the employee, volunteer, or contractor.

(c) In determining whether to grant a waiver under subsection (b), the department shall consider the following factors:

(1) The length of time that has passed since the disqualifying conviction.

(2) The severity, nature, and circumstances of the offense.

(3) Evidence of rehabilitation.

(4) The duties and qualifications required for the proposed employment positions, volunteer assignment, or contract.

(d) Notwithstanding subsection (a) or (b), if:

(1) a license application could be denied due to a criminal conviction of, or a determination of child abuse or neglect by, an employee, volunteer, or contractor of the applicant; and

(2) the department determines that the employee, volunteer, or contractor has been dismissed by the applicant within a reasonable time after the applicant became aware of the conviction or determination;

the criminal conviction of, or determination of child abuse or neglect by, the former employee, former volunteer, or former contractor does not constitute a sufficient basis for the denial of a license application.

(e) The department may adopt rules to implement this section.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.273. Amended by P.L.138-2007, SEC.48; P.L.162-2011, SEC.24; P.L.128-2012, SEC.97; P.L.183-2017, SEC.15; P.L.243-2019, SEC.8; P.L.78-2026, SEC.6; P.L.145-2026, SEC.176.
Ind. Code § 31-14-11-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-14-11-7
Repealed
Status: repealed

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-6.1-14.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.171-2001, SEC.2. Repealed by P.L.207-2013, SEC.25.
Ind. Code § 31-16-6-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 16 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-16-6-10
Notice of change of address, federal assistance, and other conditions affecting support order; exception
Status: in_force

Sec. 10. (a) Except as provided in subsection (c), a party affected by a support order shall inform the clerk of the court and the state central collection unit established within the child support bureau by IC 31-25-3-1 of any change of address not more than fifteen (15) days after the party's address is changed.

(b) At the time of the issuance or modification of a support order, the parties affected by the order shall inform the clerk of the court and the state central collection unit established within the child support bureau by IC 31-25-3-1 of:

(1) whether any of the parties is receiving or has received assistance under the:

(A) federal Aid to Families with Dependent Children program (42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.); or

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

(2) the Social Security number of any child affected by the order.

The Social Security number required under subdivision (2) shall be maintained in the Indiana support enforcement tracking system (ISETS) or its successor statewide automated support enforcement system and shall be kept confidential and may be used only to carry out the purposes of the Title IV-D program.

(c) A party who is an individual certified as a program participant in the address confidentiality program under IC 5-26.5 is not required to provide the individual's current residence and mailing address if the individual provides an address designated by the office of the attorney general under IC 5-26.5 as the individual's principal residence and mailing address.

As added by P.L.80-2010, SEC.32. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.36.
Ind. Code § 31-28-5.8-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 28 / Chapter 5.8 / Section 31-28-5.8-7
Periodic reviews by court; notice; participation; orders
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) A court that approves a collaborative care agreement under this chapter shall conduct periodic reviews during the term of the agreement. The court shall review the agreement and the progress made in complying with the provisions of the agreement and case plan developed under section 6 of this chapter.

(b) The court shall conduct each periodic review in a formal court hearing.

(c) The department shall provide a notice of a hearing, as provided in IC 31-32-1-4, at least seven (7) days before the date of the hearing to the following:

(1) The older youth.

(2) The foster parent or any other caretaker with whom the older youth is living, if applicable.

(3) Any caseworker responsible for visitation with the older youth.

(4) Any person or agency identified in the collaborative care agreement as a provider of services to the older youth.

(5) Any person or entity providing successful adulthood services to the older youth developed under IC 31-25-2-7(a)(9) or 465 IAC 2-14.

(6) A guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate participating with the consent of the older youth.

(d) A person to whom the department gives notice under subsection (c) is entitled to participate in a periodic review hearing as set forth in IC 31-34-21-4(d).

(e) The department shall prepare and submit to the court a written progress report for the periodic review hearing. The department shall provide a copy of the report with the notice of the hearing provided under subsection (c).

(f) The court must hold a periodic review hearing:

(1) not later than six (6) months after the date the court grants a petition under section 5 of this chapter; and

(2) at least once every six (6) months until the collaborative care agreement is terminated.

(g) After each periodic review hearing, the court shall enter an order that includes findings and conclusions concerning the progress made in implementing the collaborative care agreement and case plan of the older youth. If a permanency plan has been approved or modified for the youth, the court shall also review the permanency plan.

As added by P.L.48-2012, SEC.34. Amended by P.L.104-2015, SEC.30.
Ind. Code § 31-21-7-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-21-7-2
Invalidity of provisions
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. If a provision of this article or its application to a person or circumstance is held invalid, the invalidity does not affect other provisions or applications of this article that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this article are severable.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-5-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-18.5-5-6
Contest by obligor; notice
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. (a) An obligor may contest the validity or enforcement of an income withholding order issued in another state and received directly by an income payor in Indiana by registering the order in an Indiana tribunal and filing a contest to that order as provided in IC 31-18.5-6, or otherwise contesting the order in the same manner as if the order had been issued by an Indiana tribunal.

(b) The obligor shall give notice of the contest to:

(1) a support enforcement agency providing services to the obligee;

(2) each income payor that has directly received an income withholding order relating to the obligor; and

(3) the person designated to receive payments in the income withholding order or, if no person is designated, to the obligee.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-31-4-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 31 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-31-4-3
Qualifications
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. A person appointed as a part-time juvenile court referee under this chapter must be admitted to the practice of law in Indiana.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-9-2.1(b) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.14.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-134 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-134
"Intended biological parent"
Status: in_force

Sec. 134. "Intended biological parent", for purposes of sections 240 and 241 of this chapter, means a party to a surrogate agreement who:

(1) agrees to be or is genetically related to a child borne by a surrogate; and

(2) is not the surrogate's spouse.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-6-16 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-18.5-6-16
Procedure to register child support order of foreign country for modification
Status: in_force

Sec. 16. A party or support enforcement agency seeking to:

(1) modify; or

(2) modify and enforce;

a foreign child support order not under the Convention may register that order in Indiana under 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 at another time. The petition must specify the grounds for modification.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-111 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-111
"Fund"
Status: in_force

Sec. 111. "Fund", for purposes of IC 31-26-4, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-26-4-3.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-19-5-18 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 5 / Section 31-19-5-18
Waiver of notice rights of unregistered putative fathers; irrevocably implied consent to adoption
Status: in_force

Sec. 18. A putative father who fails to register within the period specified by section 12 of this chapter waives notice of an adoption proceeding. The putative father's waiver under this section constitutes an irrevocably implied consent to the child's adoption.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1.5-16.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 31-34-3-4.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-34-3-4.5
Procedures for notices to adult relatives and siblings; content
Status: in_force

Sec. 4.5. (a) If a child is removed from the child's parents under this chapter, within thirty (30) days after the removal of the child from the parents the department shall exercise due diligence to identify and provide notice of the removal to:

(1) all adult relatives (as defined in IC 31-9-2.1-207) of the child, including relatives suggested by either parent as required under 42 U.S.C. 671(a)(29); and

(2) all the child's siblings who are at least eighteen (18) years of age.

(b) The department may not provide notice to a person under subsection (a) if the department knows or suspects that the person has caused family or domestic violence.

(c) A notice under subsection (a) must:

(1) state that the child has been removed from the parents by the department;

(2) set forth the options the relative may have under federal, state, or local laws, including the care and placement of the child and other options that may be lost if the relative fails to respond to the notice;

(3) describe the requirements for the relative to become a foster parent;

(4) describe additional services available to the child placed in foster care; and

(5) describe how a relative guardian of a child may subsequently enter into an agreement with the department to receive financial assistance through the adoption assistance program or guardianship assistance program.

As added by P.L.131-2009, SEC.59. Amended by P.L.104-2015, SEC.32; P.L.145-2026, SEC.203.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-3-13 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-18.5-3-13
Costs, fees, and expenses
Status: in_force

Sec. 13. (a) The petitioner may not be required to pay a filing fee or other costs.

(b) If an obligee prevails, a responding Indiana tribunal may assess against an obligor filing fees, reasonable attorney's fees, other costs, and necessary travel and other reasonable expenses incurred by the obligee and the obligee's witnesses.

(c) The tribunal may not assess:

(1) fees;

(2) costs; or

(3) expenses;

against the obligee or the support enforcement agency of either the initiating or responding state or foreign country, except as provided by other law.

(d) Attorney's fees may be taxed as costs, and may be ordered paid directly to the attorney, who may enforce the order in the attorney's own name. Payment of support owed to the obligee has priority over fees, costs, and expenses.

(e) The tribunal shall order the payment of costs and reasonable attorney's fees if it determines that a hearing was requested primarily for delay. In a proceeding under IC 31-18.5-6, a hearing is presumed to have been requested primarily for delay if a registered support order is confirmed or enforced without change.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-37-2-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-37-2-3
Delinquent act; violation of compulsory school attendance law
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. A child commits a delinquent act if, before becoming eighteen (18) years of age, the child violates IC 20-33-2 concerning compulsory school attendance.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.1-2005, SEC.209.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-3-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-18.5-3-7
Duties of support enforcement agency
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. (a) In a proceeding under this article, a support enforcement agency of Indiana, upon request:

(1) shall provide services to a petitioner residing in a state;

(2) shall provide services to a petitioner requesting services through a central authority of a foreign country as described in IC 31-18.5-1-2(5)(A) or IC 31-18.5-1-2(5)(D); and

(3) may provide services to a petitioner who is an individual not residing in a state.

(b) A support enforcement agency of Indiana that is providing services to the petitioner shall:

(1) take all steps necessary to enable an appropriate Indiana tribunal or a tribunal of another state or a foreign country to obtain jurisdiction over the respondent;

(2) request an appropriate tribunal to set a date, time, and place for a hearing;

(3) make a reasonable effort to obtain all relevant information, including information as to income and property of the parties;

(4) within ten (10) days, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, after receipt of notice in a record from an initiating, responding, or registering tribunal, send a copy of the notice to the petitioner;

(5) within ten (10) days, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, after receipt of communication in a record from the respondent or the respondent's attorney, send a copy of the communication to the petitioner; and

(6) notify the petitioner if jurisdiction over the respondent cannot be obtained.

(c) A support enforcement agency of Indiana that requests registration of a child support order in Indiana for enforcement or for modification shall make reasonable efforts:

(1) to ensure that the order to be registered is the controlling order; or

(2) if two (2) or more child support orders exist and the identity of the controlling order has not been determined, to ensure that a request for such a determination is made in a tribunal having jurisdiction to do so.

(d) A support enforcement agency of Indiana that requests registration and enforcement of a support order, arrears, or judgment stated in a foreign currency shall convert the amounts stated in the foreign currency into the equivalent amounts in dollars under the applicable official or market exchange rate as publicly reported.

(e) A support enforcement agency of Indiana shall request an Indiana tribunal to issue a child support order and an income withholding order that redirect payment of current support, arrears, and interest if requested to do so by a support enforcement agency of another state under section 19 of this chapter.

(f) This article does not create or negate a relationship of attorney and client or other fiduciary relationship between the support enforcement agency or the attorney for the agency and the individual being assisted by the agency.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-3-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-18.5-3-9
Private counsel
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. An individual may employ private counsel to represent the individual in proceedings authorized by this article.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-18.5-7-11 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 18.5 / Chapter 7 / Section 31-18.5-7-11
Modification of child support order
Status: in_force

Sec. 11. (a) An Indiana tribunal may not modify a Convention child support order if the obligee remains a resident of the foreign country where the support order was issued unless:

(1) the obligee submits to the jurisdiction of an Indiana tribunal, either expressly or by defending on the merits of the case without objecting to the jurisdiction at the first available opportunity; or

(2) the foreign tribunal lacks or refuses to exercise jurisdiction to modify its support order or issue a new support order.

(b) If an Indiana tribunal does not modify a Convention child support order because the order is not recognized in Indiana, section 8(c) of this chapter applies.

As added by P.L.206-2015, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 31-19-13-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-19-13-4
Seal or surrender of replaced certificate of birth
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. When the Indiana department of health establishes a new certificate of birth following an adoption, each local health department in Indiana having custody of the replaced certificate of birth shall:

(1) seal the replaced certificate from inspection; or

(2) surrender the replaced certificate to the Indiana department of health;

as the Indiana department of health directs.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.56-2023, SEC.288.
Ind. Code § 31-33-16-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 33 / Chapter 16 / Section 31-33-16-1
Review of status of child removed from family
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. The juvenile court shall review the status of a child removed from the child's family under this article (or IC 31-6-11 before its repeal) according to IC 31-34-21.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-11-13.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.16.
Ind. Code § 31-37-23-8 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 23 / Section 31-37-23-8
Compact administrator; acceptance and supervision of children from other states
Status: in_force

Sec. 8. Each compact administrator may accept children from other states under the compact and shall arrange for the supervision of the children. The child's supervisor shall make periodic reports to the compact administrator regarding the conduct and progress of each child.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-10-3(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-26-6-15 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 26 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-26-6-15
Publicizing of plan
Status: in_force

Sec. 15. A regional services council shall publicize to residents of each county in the service region the existence and availability of the plan, including information concerning access to the plan on the department web site.

As added by P.L.146-2008, SEC.571.
Ind. Code § 31-11-4-7 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-11-4-7
Birth date information required for issuance of marriage license
Status: in_force

Sec. 7. A clerk of a circuit court or a deputy of the clerk may not issue a marriage license unless the application for the license is accompanied by the information required to be submitted by section 6 of this chapter.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-7-3-5.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-25-4-34 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-25-4-34
Duty of Title IV-D agency after finding of delinquency
Status: in_force

Sec. 34. (a) As used in this section, "board" has the meaning set forth in IC 25-1-1.2-2.

(b) If an obligor holds a license issued by a board and requests a hearing under section 33 of this chapter but fails to appear or appears and is found to be delinquent, the Title IV-D agency shall issue an order to the board that issued the obligor's license:

(1) stating that the obligor is delinquent; and

(2) requiring the board to comply with the actions required under IC 25-1-1.2-8.

(c) If an obligor holds a license issued under IC 4-31-6, IC 4-33, or IC 4-35 and requests a hearing under section 33 of this chapter but fails to appear or appears and is found to be delinquent, the Title IV-D agency shall issue an order to the:

(1) Indiana horse racing commission, if the obligor holds a license issued under IC 4-31-6; or

(2) Indiana gaming commission, if the obligor holds a license issued under IC 4-33 or IC 4-35;

stating that the obligor is delinquent and requiring the commission to comply with the actions required under IC 4-31-6-11, IC 4-33-8.5-3, or IC 4-35-6.7-2.

(d) If an obligor holds a license issued under IC 27-1-15.6, IC 27-1-15.8, or IC 27-10-3 and requests a hearing under section 33 of this chapter but fails to appear or appears and is found to be delinquent, the Title IV-D agency shall issue an order to the commissioner of the department of insurance:

(1) stating that the obligor is delinquent; and

(2) requiring the commissioner to comply with the actions required under IC 27-1-15.6-29 or IC 27-10-3-20.

(e) If an obligor holds a license issued by the department of natural resources under IC 14-22-12, IC 14-22-16, IC 14-22-19, IC 14-24-7, or IC 14-31-3 and requests a hearing under section 33 of this chapter but fails to appear, or appears and is found to be delinquent, the Title IV-D agency shall issue an order to the director of the department of natural resources:

(1) stating that the obligor is delinquent; and

(2) requiring the director to suspend or revoke a license issued by the department as provided in IC 14-11-3.

(f) If an obligor:

(1) holds an employee's permit issued under IC 7.1-3-18-9(a)(3); and

(2) requests a hearing under section 33 of this chapter but fails to appear or appears and is found to be delinquent;

the Title IV-D agency shall issue an order to the alcohol and tobacco commission stating that the obligor is delinquent and requiring the commission to impose the appropriate sanctions under IC 7.1-3-23-44.

(g) When an obligor who was the subject of an order issued by the Title IV-D agency under subsection (b), (c), (d), (e), or (f) has:

(1) paid the obligor's child support arrearage in full; or

(2) established a payment plan with the Title IV-D agency to pay the arrearage, which includes an income withholding order under IC 31-16-15-2 or IC 31-16-15-2.5;

the Title IV-D agency shall provide notice to the appropriate entity under subsection (b), (c), (d), (e), or (f) that the obligor has addressed the delinquency.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271. Amended by P.L.80-2010, SEC.51; P.L.150-2018, SEC.20; P.L.141-2022, SEC.56.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-27 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-27
"Bureau"
Status: in_force

Sec. 27. "Bureau", for purposes of IC 31-16-15 and IC 31-25, has the meaning set forth in IC 31-25-4-1.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-37-8-4.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 8 / Section 31-37-8-4.5
Privileged communication to a mental health evaluator; exceptions
Status: in_force

Sec. 4.5. (a) This section applies only to a court ordered or voluntary mental health:

(1) screening;

(2) assessment;

(3) evaluation; or

(4) treatment;

provided by or under the direction of an evaluator, as defined in IC 31-9-2.1-90, in conjunction with proceedings under this chapter.

(b) Notwithstanding section 4(5) of this chapter and except as provided in subsection (d) and except for purposes of:

(1) a probation revocation proceeding; or

(2) a modification of a dispositional decree under IC 31-37-22;

a statement communicated to an evaluator in the evaluator's official capacity may not be admitted as evidence against the child on the issue of whether the child committed a delinquent act or a crime.

(c) This section does not affect the admissibility of evidence when a juvenile interposes the defense of insanity.

(d) This section does not affect a disclosure or reporting requirement in effect on July 1, 2007, under statute or in case law regarding a statement that:

(1) relates directly to the facts or immediate circumstances of a homicide; or

(2) reveals that the child may intend to commit a crime.

As added by P.L.120-2007, SEC.4. Amended by P.L.145-2026, SEC.212.
Ind. Code § 31-34-18-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 34 / Chapter 18 / Section 31-34-18-1
Predispositional report; recommendation of care, treatment, or rehabilitation of child; alternative reports
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) Upon finding that a child is a child in need of services, the juvenile court shall order the department or a caseworker to prepare a predispositional report that contains a:

(1) statement of the needs of the child for care, treatment, rehabilitation, or placement; and

(2) recommendation for the care, treatment, rehabilitation, or placement of the child.

(b) Any of the following may prepare an alternative report for consideration by the court:

(1) The child.

(2) The child's:

(A) parent;

(B) guardian;

(C) guardian ad litem;

(D) court appointed special advocate; or

(E) custodian.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17. Amended by P.L.55-1997, SEC.14; P.L.146-2008, SEC.597.
Ind. Code § 31-27-4-18 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-27-4-18
Inspection of foster family homes
Status: in_force

Sec. 18. The department may conduct an inspection of a foster family home 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 § 31-14-13-4 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 14 / Chapter 13 / Section 31-14-13-4
Authority of custodial parent to determine child's upbringing
Status: in_force

Sec. 4. Except as otherwise provided in an order by a court, the custodial parent may determine the child's upbringing, which includes education, health care, and religious training, unless the court determines that the best interests of the child require a limitation on this authority.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.95-2009, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-32-3-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-32-3-10
Civil immunity; employee of or volunteer for an early intervention advocate; preventative program staff member
Status: in_force

Sec. 10. Except for gross misconduct, if:

(1) a guardian ad litem;

(2) a court appointed special advocate;

(3) an employee of a county guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate program;

(4) a volunteer for a county guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate program;

(5) an early intervention advocate; or

(6) an employee of or volunteer for an early intervention advocate or staff member of a preventative program established by the court under section 11 of this chapter;

performs the person's duties in good faith, the person is immune from any civil liability that may occur as a result of that person's performance during the time that the person is acting within the scope of the person's duties.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15. Amended by P.L.183-2011, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-125 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-125
"Includes"
Status: in_force

Sec. 125. "Includes" means includes but is not limited to.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-11-4-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-11-4-1
Marriage license required to marry
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. Before two (2) individuals may marry each other, the individuals must obtain a marriage license under this chapter.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.3.
Ind. Code § 31-32-3-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-32-3-5
Court appointment of attorney
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. If necessary to protect the child's interests, the court may appoint an attorney to represent the guardian ad litem or the court appointed special advocate. The court may only appoint one (1) attorney under this section.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-37-11-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 11 / Section 31-37-11-6
Effect of continuances and actions of child on computation of time
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. Times specified in sections 2 and 3 of this chapter shall be computed excluding delays resulting from any of the following:

(1) Continuances granted on the child's motion.

(2) The actions of the child.

(3) Congestion of the court calendar if the prosecuting attorney moves for a continuance not later than three (3) days before the hearing, except that a motion may be filed less than three (3) days before the hearing if the prosecuting attorney shows that the delay was not the fault of the state.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-25-2-2.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-25-2-2.5
No personal liability for official acts
Status: in_force

Sec. 2.5. The following are not personally liable, except to the state, for an official act done or omitted in connection with performance of duties under this title:

(1) The director of the department.

(2) Other officers and employees of the department.

As added by P.L.146-2008, SEC.563.
Ind. Code § 31-19-10-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-19-10-3
Withdrawal of consent to adoption
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) A consent to adoption may be withdrawn not later than fifteen (15) days after consent to adoption is signed if:

(1) the court finds, after notice and opportunity to be heard afforded to the petitioner for adoption, that the person seeking the withdrawal is acting in the best interest of the person sought to be adopted; and

(2) the court orders the withdrawal.

(b) A consent to adoption may not be withdrawn after:

(1) fifteen (15) days after the consent to adoption is signed;

(2) the person who signs the consent to adoption appears, in person or by telephonic communications or video conferencing, before a court in which the petition for adoption has been or will be filed and acknowledges that the person:

(A) understood the consequences of the signing of the consent to adoption;

(B) freely and voluntarily signed the consent to adoption; and

(C) believes that adoption is in the best interests of the person to be adopted; or

(3) the person who signs the consent to adoption appears, in person or by telephonic communications or video conferencing, before a court of competent jurisdiction if the parent is outside of Indiana and acknowledges that the person:

(A) understood the consequences of the signing of the consent to adoption;

(B) freely and voluntarily signed the consent to adoption; and

(C) believes that adoption is in the best interests of the person to be adopted;

whichever occurs first.

(c) If a hearing under this section is conducted by telephonic communication or video conferencing, the court shall ensure that the hearing is recorded.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.61-2003, SEC.18; P.L.146-2007, SEC.11; P.L.89-2023, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-19-15-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-19-15-1
Effect upon duties, obligations, and rights of biological parents; parent-child relationship terminated
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) Except as provided in section 2 of this chapter or IC 31-19-16, if the biological parents of an adopted person are alive, the biological parents are:

(1) relieved of all legal duties and obligations to the adopted child; and

(2) divested of all rights with respect to the child;

and the parent-child relationship is terminated after the adoption unless the parent-child relationship was terminated by an earlier court action, operation of law, or otherwise.

(b) The obligation to support the adopted person continues until the entry of the adoption decree. The entry of the adoption decree does not extinguish the obligation to pay past due child support owed for the adopted person before the entry of the adoption decree.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-9(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.130-2005, SEC.8; P.L.58-2009, SEC.24.
Ind. Code § 31-17-2-10 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-17-2-10
Professional personnel; court consultation; cross-examination
Status: in_force

Sec. 10. (a) The court may seek the advice of professional personnel even if the professional personnel are not employed on a regular basis by the court. The advice shall be given in writing and made available by the court to counsel upon request.

(b) Counsel may call for cross-examination of any professional personnel consulted by the court.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9.
Ind. Code § 31-32-9-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 32 / Chapter 9 / Section 31-32-9-1
Manner of service
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. (a) Service may be made upon any person under Rule 4.1 of the Indiana Rules of Trial Procedure.

(b) Personal service must be made at least three (3) days before the hearing to which the person is summoned.

(c) Service by mail must be sent at least ten (10) days before the hearing.

(d) Service of summons is not required if the person entitled to be served attends the hearing.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-7-5(a).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.15.
Ind. Code § 31-37-3-3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-37-3-3
Children less than 15 years of age; requirements for detention or custody
Status: in_force

Sec. 3. (a) It is a curfew violation for a child less than fifteen (15) years of age to be in a public place after 11 p.m. or before 5 a.m. on any day.

(b) A law enforcement officer may not detain a child or take a child into custody based on a violation of this section unless the law enforcement officer, after making a reasonable determination and considering the facts and surrounding circumstances, reasonably believes that:

(1) the child has violated this section; and

(2) there is no legal defense to the violation.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.87-2004, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 31-37-15-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 37 / Chapter 15 / Section 31-37-15-1
Standing
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. Any of the following may sign and file a petition for the juvenile court to require the participation of a parent, guardian, or custodian in a program of care, treatment, or rehabilitation for the child:

(1) The prosecuting attorney.

(2) A probation officer.

(3) The department of correction.

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

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-17(a) part.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.145-2006, SEC.339; P.L.146-2008, SEC.636.
Ind. Code § 31-11-3-5.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-11-3-5.5
Portability agreement
Status: in_force

Sec. 5.5. A portability agreement (as defined by IC 31-11-7-5(a)(4)) contained within a premarital agreement is governed by IC 31-11-7-5.

As added by P.L.38-2023, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 31-17-2-26 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 17 / Chapter 2 / Section 31-17-2-26
Submissions to the court; court requests for information
Status: in_force

Sec. 26. (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 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.4.
Ind. Code § 31-27-6-9 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 6 / Section 31-27-6-9
Investigation of unlicensed premises
Status: in_force

Sec. 9. The department is responsible for investigating 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 § 31-25-4-12 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 25 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-25-4-12
Federal courts; contact
Status: in_force

Sec. 12. The bureau shall make all contact with the federal courts necessary under federal law and guidelines.

As added by P.L.145-2006, SEC.271.
Ind. Code § 31-15-4-5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 15 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-15-4-5
Preliminary hearing of petition for temporary support or custody of child
Status: in_force

Sec. 5. The court shall immediately schedule a preliminary hearing upon the filing of a petition for:

(1) temporary child support; or

(2) temporary custody of a child entitled to support.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.7.
Ind. Code § 31-11-10-0.3 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 11 / Chapter 10 / Section 31-11-10-0.3
Legalization of certain judgments for annulment of marriage
Status: in_force

Sec. 0.3. A judgment for annulment of marriage that was:

(1) entered before February 27, 1937;

(2) granted because of fraud on the part of a party to the marriage; and

(3) granted in a case in which the defendant received service by publication;

is legalized.

As added by P.L.220-2011, SEC.493.
Ind. Code § 31-21-3-1 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 21 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-21-3-1
Binding nature of child custody determination
Status: in_force

Sec. 1. A child custody determination made by an Indiana court that has jurisdiction under this article binds each person who has:

(1) been served with notice in accordance with Indiana law;

(2) been notified in accordance with section 3 of this chapter; or

(3) submitted to the jurisdiction of the court;

and who has been given an opportunity to be heard. A child custody determination described in this section is conclusive as to the decided issues of law and fact except to the extent the determination is modified.

As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Ind. Code § 31-30-3-6 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 30 / Chapter 3 / Section 31-30-3-6
Act that would be felony and prior felony or nontraffic misdemeanor conviction
Status: in_force

Sec. 6. Upon motion by the prosecuting attorney, the juvenile court shall waive jurisdiction if it finds that:

(1) the child is charged with an act which would be a felony if committed by an adult; and

(2) the child has previously been convicted of a felony or a nontraffic misdemeanor.

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

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.13.
Ind. Code § 31-9-2.1-235 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 9 / Chapter 2.1 / Section 31-9-2.1-235
"Substantiated"
Status: in_force

Sec. 235. "Substantiated", when used in reference to a child abuse or neglect report made under IC 31-33, means a determination regarding the status of the report whenever facts obtained during an assessment of the report provide a preponderance of evidence that child abuse or neglect has occurred.

As added by P.L.145-2026, SEC.161.
Ind. Code § 31-19-23-2 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 19 / Chapter 23 / Section 31-19-23-2
Access to nonidentifying adoption information regarding child in need of services
Status: in_force

Sec. 2. (a) This section applies to an adopted child if:

(1) the local office; or

(2) the prosecuting attorney;

has filed a petition alleging that the child is a child in need of services under IC 31-34-1.

(b) The:

(1) local office;

(2) child's guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate; and

(3) juvenile court;

may have access to nonidentifying adoption information regarding the child.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-4-30.]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.128-2012, SEC.73.
Ind. Code § 31-27-4-20.5 — Indiana Code / Title 31 / Article 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 31-27-4-20.5
Use of reasonable and prudent parent standard
Status: in_force

Sec. 20.5. A licensee shall use the reasonable and prudent parent standard when determining whether to allow a child in foster care to participate in extracurricular, enrichment, cultural, and social activities.

As added by P.L.104-2015, SEC.22.