What are parental rights and visitation rights in Indiana?

Both types of parents have specific custody and visitation rights, but a child’s best interests—not parental rights—will guide Indiana judges making custody decisions. Indiana parenting guidelines require a judge to look at a child’s best interests when making any custody decision.

Can a court order the termination of parental rights in Indiana?

In Indiana, only a court with juvenile or probate jurisdiction can order the termination of the parent-child relationship. In a CHINS case, the parents can agree to the termination of their parental rights, or the court can order it even if the parents don’t agree.

What are the guidelines for parenting in Indiana?

GUIDELINES PREAMBLE The Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines are based on the premise that it is usually in a child’s best interest to have frequent, meaningful and continuing contact with each parent. It is assumed that both parents nurture their child in important ways, significant to the development and well being of the child.

Are there any fathers rights attorneys in Indiana?

Fathers are often intimidated by the family court system, given its track record for generally awarding custody and other rights to mothers. For those fathers who have questions or need assistance with their child custody, paternity, or child support case, an attorney specializing in fathers’ rights can be an invaluable resource.

Can father sign off rights in Indiana?

This situation, called voluntary termination of parental rights, is the only way in which a father can voluntarily give up his rights and responsibilities towards his child (Indiana Code Article 35). Voluntary termination can also occur if both parents agree; a father may only sign off his rights if the mother concurs.

What are child support laws in Indiana?

Indiana law requires both parents to pay child support. Child support is defined as a payment made by a parent to provide for a child’s monetary support, health care, arrearages (past-due child support), or reimbursement.

What are the child abandonment laws in Indiana?

Indiana has several different laws that relate to child abandonment, including statutes about abandoning babies, statues defining abandonment of a child of any age as neglect, and provisions for criminal penalties. Indiana law also allows the courts to terminate parental rights if a parent abandons a child.

How is paternity established in Indiana?

In all other circumstances, legal paternity in Indiana is established either by a paternity affidavit or by a court order. In Indiana, a biological father should sign a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity in the first 72 hours after the child’s birth.