Plea Agreements

In Indiana, a child does not get to decide custody on their own. There is no specific age at which a child suddenly gets to choose which parent they will live with. Instead, Indiana courts decide custody based on what is in the best interests of the child. That means the outcome of your case depends on the evidence presented…

Protective orders in Indiana are designed to protect individuals from domestic violence, stalking, harassment, and threats. Whether you are seeking a protective order or have been served with one, understanding Indiana’s protective order laws is essential to protecting your rights and avoiding serious legal consequences.   What Is a Protective Order? A protective order is a civil court order issued…

When parents cannot agree on legal custody, physical custody, or parenting time, Indiana courts have several tools available to help determine what arrangement best supports the child’s well‑being. One of the most significant of these tools is a custody evaluation. Although not required in every case, custody evaluations can play a pivotal role when disputes are complex, high‑conflict, or involve…

When you enter a civil lawsuit, your immediate concern is often the trial. However, many cases, even high-stakes litigation, may never see a jury. Instead, they are decided much earlier through a powerful pre-trial procedure known as Summary Judgment. This motion is a critical battleground in Indiana courts and understanding its purpose and standard is essential for every client.  …

Making the decision to move, whether it’s for a new job, to be closer to family, or for a fresh start, is often exciting, but it becomes complicated quickly when children are involved in a case with established custody or parenting time orders. In Indiana, moving with children is not a simple choice; it is a serious legal procedure governed…

If you believe the outcome of your case is unfair or incorrect, you may have the option to file for an appeal. The appellate process in Indiana differs significantly from the trial court procedures you may have experienced. Below is an overview of key points you should know: Timeline: In Indiana, you have 30 days from the date of the…

Couples living together without the formality of marriage, otherwise known as cohabitation, is increasingly common in Indiana and across the country. While moving in with a partner is an exciting step, it’s critical for couples to understand a core legal reality: Cohabitation does not grant the same rights and protections as marriage in Indiana. For unmarried partners, a Cohabitation Agreement…

If you ever find that you were subjected to an unlawful search or seizure, it’s crucial to understand your rights and take action to protect them. Two key provisions, the 4th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and Article 1, Section 11 of the Indiana Constitution, serve as vital protections for individuals against unreasonable searches and seizures by the government. Both…

Being involved in a lawsuit, whether as a plaintiff or a defendant, can feel overwhelming. Once the initial pleadings are filed, you enter a crucial phase called Discovery. This is often when you, the Plaintiff or Defendant, start getting asked detailed questions and asked to provide documents. It’s normal to feel confused or even defensive about these requests, but understanding…

Divorce can be a complicated journey, filled with tough decisions about custody, finances, and even who gets to keep the family pet. However, one critical aspect often overlooked is the impact of divorce on grandparent visitation rights. How will grandparents maintain their cherished relationships with their grandchildren once the dust settles? In Indiana, the Grandparent Visitation Act (IC §31-17-5-1) provides…