Indiana § 31-19-19-1 - Court files and records
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 31-19-19-1 — Court files and records, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-19-19-1. Court files and records
Sec. 1. (a) The following items are confidential:
(1) A petition for adoption.
(2) Reports of the investigation made under IC 31-19-8-5 (or IC 31-3-1-4 before its repeal).
(3) All other papers filed in connection with a petition for adoption.
(4) The record of evidence of the hearing.
(5) The decree made and entered by the court, including decrees in foreign adoptions filed under IC 31-19-28 (or IC 31-3-1-10 before its repeal).
(b) The files and records of the court pertaining to the adoption proceedings:
(1) shall be kept in the custody of the clerk of the court; and
(2) are not open to inspection, except as provided in IC 31-19-13-2(2).
[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-3-1-5.]
As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.11.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 31-19-19-1
What does Indiana Code § 31-19-19-1 cover?
Section 31-19-19-1 ("Court files and records") 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 § 31-19-19-1?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 31-19-19-1" (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 § 31-19-19-1 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.