Indiana § 31-21-6-18 - Proceeding to locate a child
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 31-21-6-18 — Proceeding to locate a child, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-21-6-18. Proceeding to locate a child
Sec. 18. (a) In a case arising under this article or involving the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, a prosecuting attorney or other appropriate public official may take a lawful action, including resorting to a proceeding under this article or any other available civil proceeding, to locate a child, obtain the return of a child, or enforce a child custody determination if there is:
(1) an existing child custody determination;
(2) a request to do so from a court in a pending child custody proceeding;
(3) a reasonable belief that a criminal statute has been violated; or
(4) a reasonable belief that the child has been wrongfully removed or retained in violation of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.
(b) A prosecuting attorney or other appropriate public official acting under this section acts on behalf of the court and may not represent a party.
As added by P.L.138-2007, SEC.45.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 31-21-6-18
What does Indiana Code § 31-21-6-18 cover?
Section 31-21-6-18 ("Proceeding to locate a child") 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 § 31-21-6-18?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 31-21-6-18" (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 § 31-21-6-18 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.