Indiana § 31-37-8-2 - Contents of preliminary inquiry
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 31-37-8-2 — Contents of preliminary inquiry, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-37-8-2. Contents of preliminary inquiry
Sec. 2. A preliminary inquiry is an informal investigation into the facts and circumstances reported to the court. Whenever practicable, the preliminary inquiry should include the following information:
(1) The child's background.
(2) The child's current status.
(3) The child's school performance.
(4) If the child has been detained:
(A) efforts made to prevent removal of the child from the child's home, including the identification of any emergency situation that prevented reasonable efforts to avoid removal;
(B) whether it is in the best interests of the child to be removed from the home environment; and
(C) whether remaining in the home would be contrary to the health and welfare of the child.
(5) The results of a dual status screening tool to determine whether the child is a dual status child, as described in IC 31-41-1-2.
(6) The results of a risk screening tool conducted on the child to inform diversion decisions.
[Pre-1997 Recodification Citation: 31-6-4-7(b).]
As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.146-2008, SEC.626; P.L.66-2015, SEC.10; P.L.101-2022, SEC.15.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 31-37-8-2
What does Indiana Code § 31-37-8-2 cover?
Section 31-37-8-2 ("Contents of preliminary inquiry") 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 § 31-37-8-2?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 31-37-8-2" (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 § 31-37-8-2 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.