Select your state

Child custody

religion

The religion of one or both parents generally won’t be the basis for a court’s decision on child custody arrangements—due in part to the protections of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution—unless the evidence introduced in court shows the religious practices are abusive or will likely have a substantial harmful effect on the child, and will not be in the child’s best interest. In most circumstances parents with shared custody of their child will be free to engage in their choice of religious services and activities with the child during their time of custody.

In Indiana, as in other states, the court's primary concern in determining child custody arrangements is the best interest of the child. The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects religious freedom, which means that a parent's religion alone is not usually a determining factor in custody decisions. However, if there is evidence that a parent's religious practices are harmful to the child or not in the child's best interest, the court may consider this information when making custody determinations. When parents have shared custody, each parent typically has the right to engage in religious activities with their child during their respective custody periods, provided that these activities do not harm the child or impede the child's welfare. Indiana courts strive to balance the protection of religious freedom with the safety and well-being of the child in custody matters.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

As a LegalFix Member You Will Be an Important Client of Local Law Firms

For about 82¢ a day you can have a LegalFix Legal Plan that includes initial consultations with an attorney at no additional charge—and additional legal services at reduced rates—all from top law firms in your state. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges, starting today.

And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group to offer LegalFix for even better pricing.

Child custody

religion

As a LegalFix Member You Will Be an Important Client of Local Law Firms

Articles

Indiana State Code

Indiana State Code

Child custody

religion

Articles