Indiana § 31-21-5-2 - Exclusive, continuing jurisdiction of child custody cases
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 31-21-5-2 — Exclusive, continuing jurisdiction of child custody cases, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-21-5-2. Exclusive, continuing jurisdiction of child custody cases
Sec. 2. (a) Except as otherwise provided in section 4 of this chapter, an Indiana court that has made a child custody determination consistent with section 1 or 3 of this chapter has exclusive, continuing jurisdiction over the determination until:
(1) an Indiana court determines that:
(A) neither:
(i) the child;
(ii) the child's parents; nor
(iii) any person acting as a parent;
has a significant connection with Indiana; and
(B) substantial evidence is no longer available in Indiana concerning the child's care, protection, training, and personal relationships; or
(2) an Indiana court or a court of another state determines that:
(A) the child;
(B) the child's parents; and
(C) any person acting as a parent;
do not presently reside in Indiana.
(b) An Indiana court that:
(1) has made a child custody determination; and
(2) does not have exclusive, continuing jurisdiction under this section;
may modify the determination only if the Indiana court has jurisdiction to make an initial determination under section 1 of this chapter.
As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 31-21-5-2
What does Indiana Code § 31-21-5-2 cover?
Section 31-21-5-2 ("Exclusive, continuing jurisdiction of child custody cases") 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 § 31-21-5-2?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 31-21-5-2" (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 § 31-21-5-2 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.