Indiana § 31-14-13-2.5 - Consideration of de facto custodian factors
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 31-14-13-2.5 — Consideration of de facto custodian factors, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-14-13-2.5. Consideration of de facto custodian factors
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.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 31-14-13-2.5
What does Indiana Code § 31-14-13-2.5 cover?
Section 31-14-13-2.5 ("Consideration of de facto custodian factors") is part of the Indiana Code, the codified statutory law of Indiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Indiana § 31-14-13-2.5?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 31-14-13-2.5" (Indiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Indiana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Indiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Indiana attorney.
How does Indiana § 31-14-13-2.5 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Indiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Indiana.