When relationships change, some grandparents are often cut off from the grandchildren’s lives. In such situations, many grandparents might wonder if the law allows them to request court-ordered visitation. Indiana law allows grandparents to petition for visitation in...
Family Law
Two ways to establish paternity as an Indiana father
When you are not married to your child’s mother, being involved from the start does not automatically make you the child’s legal father. Without legal paternity, it can be harder to settle questions about parenting time, major decisions and support. If you live in New...
Recognizing the signs of parental alienation syndrome
Parental Alienation Syndrome is a troubling phenomenon that occurs when one parent manipulates a child into having negative feelings and attitudes toward the other parent. It can be emotionally devastating for both the alienated parent and the child involved....
What does it mean to have a declaration an unfit parent?
During a divorce, the court has a preference for joint custody when dealing with children. Children are typically emotionally healthier when allowed to spend equal time with both parents, and the parents benefit from the arrangement as well. In some cases, one parent...
Parents face neglect charges after accidental shooting
The parents of a six-year-old boy face neglect charges after the boy accidentally shot his five-year-old sister in the parents' Indiana home. The charges stem from allegations that the parents did not safely store a loaded firearm. If the parents receive a conviction...
When are you eligible for benefits in a military divorce?
As a non-servicemember living in Indiana, you may question whether you might be able to continue to take advantage of military benefits if you divorce your servicemember spouse. For example, TRICARE health insurance and the use of a military commissary are among the...
What is kinship adoption and is it the best choice?
If your family member is suddenly unable or deemed unfit to care for their child, you may want to consider a kinship adoption. Definition and circumstances A kinship adoption occurs when a relative of a child becomes the adoptive parent. If the biological parents pass...
Can we include pets in our prenuptial agreement?
The divorce court in Indiana will most likely treat your pets as property. The law sees them as property despite them being living beings. It does not provide for pets as it does for children. It is in your best interests to plan for your pets as part of your...
How can you talk to your kids about divorce?
When you are ready to file for divorce, it can be difficult to talk about it. If you have kids, it can be even more difficult to break the news to them. According to Today’s Parent, you should approach the subject differently for children in different age groups....
Can I force someone to take a paternity test?
When you birth a child as part of a married couple, the law automatically assumes that your husband is the father. If you have a child out of wedlock, however, the father may deny or be uncertain of his paternity. In these instances, you may wish to have him take a...
