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 Happens If You Don’t Have a Power of Attorney?
Most people understand the importance of having a will, but many overlook another critical estate planning document: a power of attorney. While a will directs what happens after you pass away, a power of attorney protects you while you are still living if you become unable to make financial or healthcare decisions for yourself.
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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.
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.
Divorce, Custody and Support in Indiana
Straight answers on the questions Indiana families ask us first, from filing through the final decree.
Hamilton County Personal Representatives: Duties, Deadlines, and Common Pitfalls Families Should Know
Serving as a personal representative in Hamilton County is a serious legal responsibility. Whether you are appointed under a will or by the Probate Court, you are legally obligated to manage the estate according to Indiana law.
Smart Gifting in 2026: Annual Exclusion and Lifetime Strategies for Indiana Families
As we move through 2026, many Indiana families are reassessing their estate plans in light of shifting tax thresholds and long-term financial goals. Gifting strategies that once felt optional now deserve closer attention, especially for families who want to transfer wealth thoughtfully while avoiding unintended consequences.
Avoiding Probate Delays in Indiana
Avoiding probate delays in Indiana means getting organized early complete estate paperwork (will, deeds, account info), clear up debts, and make heir wishes known. Firms like Webster & Garino guide families so assets pass smoothly and dispute-free.
More From Our Attorneys
Over 200 articles on Indiana family law and estate planning, newest first.
Chemical Hair Relaxer Litigation Update: Timelines, MDL Status, and What Families Should Know
The chemical hair relaxer litigation continues to evolve as courts review an increasing number of claims tied to long-term exposure and serious health outcomes. For individuals and families in Hamilton County, this litigation may feel distant at first, primarily because the cases are centralized at the federal level.
Hamilton County Personal Representatives: Duties, Deadlines, and Common Pitfalls Families Should Know
Serving as a personal representative in Hamilton County is a serious legal responsibility. Whether you are appointed under a will or by the Probate Court, you are legally obligated to manage the estate according to Indiana law.
Smart Gifting in 2026: Annual Exclusion and Lifetime Strategies for Indiana Families
As we move through 2026, many Indiana families are reassessing their estate plans in light of shifting tax thresholds and long-term financial goals. Gifting strategies that once felt optional now deserve closer attention, especially for families who want to transfer wealth thoughtfully while avoiding unintended consequences.
Creditor Claims in Indiana Probate: Deadlines, Notices, and Disputes
When a loved one passes away, families often focus on grief, funeral arrangements, and the immediate needs of the estate. What many do not expect is the steady flow of creditor notices, medical bills, and account statements that must be handled during probate.
Indiana Estate Planning for Young Families: Guardians, Trustees, and Life Insurance
Young families in Hamilton County may assume estate planning can wait. In reality, parents of minor children have urgent planning needs to protect care and finances, and an estate plan ensures your values guide those outcomes.
Planning for Incapacity in Indiana with POA and Health Care Directives
Without legal planning, sudden incapacity from illness or accident can leave your family scrambling to manage your finances and medical decisions. Powers of attorney and healthcare directives give trusted people the authority to act on your behalf when you cannot.
Succession Planning for Indiana Entrepreneurs with Trusts, Buy-Sell Agreements, and Continuity
Succession planning ensures your business continues smoothly when an owner retires, becomes incapacitated or dies. Using tools like trusts, buy-sell agreements and continuity plans to protect family, employees and the company’s legacy.
Avoiding Probate Delays in Indiana
Avoiding probate delays in Indiana means getting organized early complete estate paperwork (will, deeds, account info), clear up debts, and make heir wishes known. Firms like Webster & Garino guide families so assets pass smoothly and dispute-free.
Indiana Small Estate Affidavits for Estates Under the $100,000 Threshold
Losing a loved one is hard enough without court delays. Indiana gives families a faster option when the estate is modest. If the total probate estate is $100,000 or less, and enough time has passed, many families can use an Indiana small estate affidavit to collect property without opening a full probate.
Indiana Estate Planning in 2026: What Families Should Do Before the Federal Exemption Changes
Federal estate tax exemptions rise to $15 million per person in 2026, now is the time for families to review wills, trusts, beneficiary designations, and gifting strategies to make the most of the new limits.
Indiana Child Support Guidelines 2026: What Hamilton County Parents Need to Know
Indiana’s 2026 child support updates may impact parenting time credits, income calculations, and shared expenses. Hamilton County parents should review their orders now to stay prepared.
Navigating Divorce in Indiana: Steps to Protect Your Finances in 2026
Facing a 2026 divorce in Indiana? It’s time to protect your finances, inventory assets, review retirement plans and taxes, update beneficiary designations, and understand support obligations to safeguard your future.
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An article can explain how the process works. It cannot tell you what will happen in your case. Call us at (317) 565-1818 or send a note below, and an attorney will walk you through your options under Indiana law and what the next step should be.
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