Indiana § 31-34-2-3 - Taking child into custody without court order; documentation
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 31-34-2-3 — Taking child into custody without court order; documentation, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-34-2-3. Taking child into custody without court order; documentation
Sec. 3. (a) If a law enforcement officer's action under section 2 of this chapter will not adequately protect the safety of the child, the child may be taken into custody by a law enforcement officer, probation officer, or caseworker acting with probable cause to believe the child is a child in need of services if:
(1) it appears that the child's physical or mental condition will be seriously impaired or seriously endangered if the child is not immediately taken into custody;
(2) there is not a reasonable opportunity to obtain an order of the court; and
(3) consideration for the safety of the child precludes the immediate use of family services to prevent removal of the child.
(b) A probation officer or caseworker may take a child into custody only if the circumstances make it impracticable to obtain assistance from a law enforcement officer.
(c) If a person takes a child into custody under this section, the person shall make written documentation not more than twenty-four (24) hours after the child is taken into custody as provided in section 6 of this chapter.
[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-4(d).]
As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.17.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 31-34-2-3
What does Indiana Code § 31-34-2-3 cover?
Section 31-34-2-3 ("Taking child into custody without court order; documentation") 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 § 31-34-2-3?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 31-34-2-3" (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 § 31-34-2-3 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.