Indiana § 31-37-8-4.5 - Privileged communication to a mental health evaluator; exceptions
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 31-37-8-4.5 — Privileged communication to a mental health evaluator; exceptions, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-37-8-4.5. Privileged communication to a mental health evaluator; exceptions
Sec. 4.5. (a) This section applies only to a court ordered or voluntary mental health:
(1) screening;
(2) assessment;
(3) evaluation; or
(4) treatment;
provided by or under the direction of an evaluator, as defined in IC 31-9-2.1-90, in conjunction with proceedings under this chapter.
(b) Notwithstanding section 4(5) of this chapter and except as provided in subsection (d) and except for purposes of:
(1) a probation revocation proceeding; or
(2) a modification of a dispositional decree under IC 31-37-22;
a statement communicated to an evaluator in the evaluator's official capacity may not be admitted as evidence against the child on the issue of whether the child committed a delinquent act or a crime.
(c) This section does not affect the admissibility of evidence when a juvenile interposes the defense of insanity.
(d) This section does not affect a disclosure or reporting requirement in effect on July 1, 2007, under statute or in case law regarding a statement that:
(1) relates directly to the facts or immediate circumstances of a homicide; or
(2) reveals that the child may intend to commit a crime.
As added by P.L.120-2007, SEC.4. Amended by P.L.145-2026, SEC.212.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 31-37-8-4.5
What does Indiana Code § 31-37-8-4.5 cover?
Section 31-37-8-4.5 ("Privileged communication to a mental health evaluator; exceptions") 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 § 31-37-8-4.5?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 31-37-8-4.5" (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 § 31-37-8-4.5 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.