Indiana § 35-46-1-9.5 - Adoption deception
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 35-46-1-9.5 — Adoption deception, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 35-46-1-9.5. Adoption deception
Sec. 9.5. A person who is a birth mother, or a woman who holds herself out to be a birth mother, and who knowingly or intentionally benefits from adoption related expenses paid:
(1) when the person knows or should have known that the person is not pregnant;
(2) by or on behalf of a prospective adoptive parent who is unaware that at the same time another prospective adoptive parent is also paying adoption related expenses described under section 9(d) of this chapter in an effort to adopt the same child; or
(3) when the person does not intend to make an adoptive placement;
commits adoption deception, a Level 6 felony. In addition to any other penalty imposed under this section, a court may order the person who commits adoption deception to make restitution to a prospective adoptive parent, attorney, or licensed child placing agency that incurs an expense as a result of the offense.
As added by P.L.200-1999, SEC.33. Amended by P.L.61-2003, SEC.21; P.L.146-2007, SEC.19; P.L.113-2017, SEC.16.
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 35-46-1-9.5
What does Indiana Code § 35-46-1-9.5 cover?
Section 35-46-1-9.5 ("Adoption deception") 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 § 35-46-1-9.5?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 35-46-1-9.5" (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 § 35-46-1-9.5 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.