Indiana § 29-3-8-1 - Enumerated responsibilities of guardian

Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 29-3-8-1 — Enumerated responsibilities of guardian, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 29-3-8-1. Enumerated responsibilities of guardian

Sec. 1. (a) The guardian of a minor (other than a temporary guardian) has all of the responsibilities and authority of a parent and, unless otherwise ordered by the court, is responsible for the preservation of all the minor's property regardless of where the property is located. In addition and without limitation, the guardian:

(1) must be or shall become sufficiently acquainted with the minor and maintain sufficient contact with the minor to know of the minor's capabilities, disabilities, limitations, needs, opportunities, and physical and mental health;

(2) shall, upon termination of the guardianship, comply with the applicable provisions of IC 29-3-12;

(3) to the extent the available parental income and property are insufficient to fulfill the parental obligation of support to the minor, shall apply the guardianship income and, to the extent the guardianship income is insufficient, the principal of the guardianship property to the minor's current needs for support, and protect and conserve that portion of the minor's property that is in excess of the minor's current needs;

(4) shall report the physical and mental condition of the minor to the court as ordered by the court; and

(5) has any other responsibilities that the court may order.

(b) The guardian (other than a temporary guardian) of an incapacitated person is responsible for the incapacitated person's care and custody and for the preservation of the incapacitated person's property to the extent ordered by the court. In addition and without limitation, the guardian of an incapacitated person:

(1) has, with respect to the incapacitated person, the same responsibilities as those of a guardian of a minor enumerated in subsection (a)(1), (a)(3), and (a)(4);

(2) shall, upon termination of the guardianship, comply with the applicable provisions of IC 29-3-12; and

(3) has any other responsibilities that the court may order.

As added by P.L.169-1988, SEC.1. Amended by P.L.264-1989, SEC.10.

Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 29-3-8-1

What does Indiana Code § 29-3-8-1 cover?

Section 29-3-8-1 ("Enumerated responsibilities of guardian") 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 § 29-3-8-1?

A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 29-3-8-1" (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 § 29-3-8-1 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.