Indiana Family Law and Estate Planning, Explained in Plain English
Our attorneys write about the questions Westfield, Bloomington and Indianapolis families actually ask us. Wills, trusts, probate, divorce, custody and support under Indiana law, without the legal jargon.
Read what applies to your situation, then call us and we will pick up where the article leaves off.
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What’s the Difference Between Child Custody and Child Support in Indiana
When parents separate, custody and child support are often discussed at the same time, but Indiana law treats them as separate questions. Custody focuses on how important decisions are made for a child and where the child spends time. Child support focuses on the financial responsibility each parent has for meeting the child's needs.
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Every article is written by one of our attorneys and reviewed before it goes live. Pick the area closest to what you are facing.
Wills, Trusts and Probate in Indiana
What every Indiana adult should have in place, and the situations that call for something more than a simple will.
How to Navigate Special Needs Estate Planning
Planning for a loved one with a disability involves more than deciding who receives property. Families often need to think about long term care, housing, decision making, public benefits, financial management, and who will step in when a parent or caregiver can no longer provide the same level of support.
How to Avoid Probate in Indiana
How to Avoid Probate in Indiana With Estate Planning Probate is the court supervised process used to
Will vs. Trust: Which Is Right for Your Indiana Estate Plan?
When people begin thinking about estate planning, one of the first questions they ask is whether they need a will, a trust, or both. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they serve different purposes and offer different benefits.
Divorce, Custody and Support in Indiana
Straight answers on the questions Indiana families ask us first, from filing through the final decree.
What’s the Difference Between Child Custody and Child Support in Indiana
When parents separate, custody and child support are often discussed at the same time, but Indiana law treats them as separate questions. Custody focuses on how important decisions are made for a child and where the child spends time. Child support focuses on the financial responsibility each parent has for meeting the child's needs.
What Is Family Law Mediation and Is It Right for You
Divorce, custody, and support disputes can become expensive and exhausting when every disagreement turns into a court fight. Family law mediation gives Indiana families another way to work through disputed issues. Instead of asking a judge to decide everything, the parties meet with a neutral mediator who helps them identify problems, exchange proposals, and look for terms they can both accept.
What Does a Guardian Ad Litem Do in an Indiana Custody Case?
Few aspects of a custody case create as many questions as the appointment of a Guardian ad Litem, often referred to as a GAL. Parents frequently worry that a Guardian ad Litem is "taking sides" or deciding who should win the case. In reality, the role is much more specific.
More From Our Attorneys
Over 200 articles on Indiana family law and estate planning, newest first.
How Long Does a Divorce Take in Indiana?
One of the first questions people ask after deciding to end a marriage is, "How long will my divorce take?" While everyone hopes for a quick resolution, the answer depends on several factors unique to each case.
How to Create a Will in Indiana
Creating a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family, your property, and your wishes. While many people assume wills are only necessary for wealthy individuals or retirees, the reality is that almost every adult can benefit from having a valid estate plan in place.
Does Indiana Recognize Lady Bird Deeds?
When people begin researching estate planning options, they often come across the term "Lady Bird Deed." These deeds are popular in some states because they allow property owners to transfer real estate to beneficiaries while retaining control of the property during their lifetime.
10 Benefits of Having a Will in Place For Your Family
Many people know they should have a will, but they often delay creating one because they believe estate planning can wait until later in life. The reality is that a will is one of the most important legal documents you can have, regardless of your age or financial situation.
How to Protect Your Children with a Proper Estate Plan
No parent wants to think about worst-case scenarios, but planning ahead is one of the most important ways to protect your children’s future. A proper estate plan gives families clarity, direction, and stability in the event of an unexpected event.
What Does an Estate in Probate Mean?
When families hear that a loved one’s estate is “in probate,” the phrase can sound intimidating. Many people are unfamiliar with probate until they experience the loss of a family member and suddenly find themselves dealing with legal paperwork, financial questions, and court procedures.
Child Support Laws in Indiana
Child support laws in Indiana are designed to ensure children continue receiving financial support after parents separate or divorce. While the process may sound straightforward, child support cases can quickly become stressful when disagreements arise about income, custody schedules, healthcare costs, or modifications.
The 10 Best Assets to Put into a Trust
Trusts are one of the most effective tools in estate planning, but many people are unsure what should actually go into one. Creating a trust is only the first step. The real value comes from how it is structured and what assets are properly transferred into it.
How to Know if Probate is Required in Indiana
When a loved one passes away, one of the first legal questions families face is whether probate is required. Many people are unsure what probate involves or whether it applies to their situation.
At What Age Should You Get a Living Will?
Most people assume living wills are something you create later in life. It is common to think estate planning only becomes important when retirement is near or health concerns arise. In reality, a living will is not about age as much as it is about preparedness.
Will vs. Trust: What’s the Difference and Which One Do You Need?
Many families begin estate planning with the same question in mind. Should I create a will, a trust, or both? The terms often appear together, and many people assume they accomplish the same thing. In reality, a will and a trust can serve different purposes in an estate plan. Understanding the difference can help you choose the right approach for protecting your family and your assets.
What is Intestate Succession?
Many families assume that when someone passes away, their property will automatically pass to the people they would have chosen to inherit it. Unfortunately, that is not always how the law works.
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