Indiana § 31-37-4-3.5 - Duty to notify parents if child arrested at school
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 31-37-4-3.5 — Duty to notify parents if child arrested at school, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-37-4-3.5. Duty to notify parents if child arrested at school
Sec. 3.5. (a) This section does not apply to an emancipated minor.
(b) This section does not apply if:
(1) there is a medical emergency involving the child described in subsection (c); or
(2) there is an ongoing emergency or concern for student safety.
(c) This section applies if a law enforcement officer arrests or takes into custody a child less than eighteen (18) years of age for allegedly committing a delinquent or criminal act on school property or at a school-sponsored activity.
(d) A law enforcement officer who arrests a child or takes a child into custody as described in subsection (c) shall make a reasonable attempt to notify, or request a school administrator to make a reasonable attempt to notify:
(1) the child's parent, guardian, or custodian; or
(2) if the arrest or taking into custody occurs during school hours, the emergency contact listed on the child's school record;
that the child has been arrested or taken into custody.
(e) A law enforcement agency shall inform its law enforcement officers concerning the notification requirements under this section.
As added by P.L.112-2023, SEC.2.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 31-37-4-3.5
What does Indiana Code § 31-37-4-3.5 cover?
Section 31-37-4-3.5 ("Duty to notify parents if child arrested at school") 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 § 31-37-4-3.5?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 31-37-4-3.5" (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 § 31-37-4-3.5 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.