Indiana § 31-17-2-17 - Custodian may determine child's upbringing

Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 31-17-2-17 — Custodian may determine child's upbringing, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 31-17-2-17. Custodian may determine child's upbringing

Sec. 17. (a) Except:

(1) as otherwise agreed by the parties in writing at the time of the custody order; and

(2) as provided in subsection (b);

the custodian may determine the child's upbringing, including the child's education, health care, and religious training.

(b) If the court finds after motion by a noncustodial parent that, in the absence of a specific limitation of the custodian's authority, the child's:

(1) physical health would be endangered; or

(2) emotional development would be significantly impaired;

the court may specifically limit the custodian's authority.

[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-1-11.5-21(b).]

As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 31-17-2-17

What does Indiana Code § 31-17-2-17 cover?

Section 31-17-2-17 ("Custodian may determine child's upbringing") 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 § 31-17-2-17?

A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 31-17-2-17" (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 § 31-17-2-17 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.