Indiana § 34-28-2-1.5 - Persons prohibited from changing name; exception for religious belief
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 34-28-2-1.5 — Persons prohibited from changing name; exception for religious belief, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 34-28-2-1.5. Persons prohibited from changing name; exception for religious belief
Sec. 1.5. (a) The following definitions apply throughout this section:
(1) "Lifetime sex or violent offender" means a person convicted of an offense that currently requires a person to register as a sex or violent offender for life under IC 11-8-8-19, regardless of the date the conviction was entered against the person or whether the person was or is required to register as a sex offender for life.
(2) "Local law enforcement authority" has the meaning set forth in IC 11-8-8-2.
(b) A person may not petition for a change of name under this chapter if the person:
(1) is confined to a department of correction facility; or
(2) except as provided in subsection (c), is a lifetime sex or violent offender.
(c) This subsection does not apply to a person who is currently required to register as a sex offender. Notwithstanding subsection (b), a person may petition for a change of name based on a sincerely held religious belief.
(d) A person described in subsection (c) shall provide written notice of the petition for name change to the local law enforcement authority in the:
(1) county of conviction; and
(2) county where the person resides.
As added by P.L.18-1998, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.244-2019, SEC.13.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 34-28-2-1.5
What does Indiana Code § 34-28-2-1.5 cover?
Section 34-28-2-1.5 ("Persons prohibited from changing name; exception for religious belief") 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 § 34-28-2-1.5?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 34-28-2-1.5" (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 § 34-28-2-1.5 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.