Parenting time is the schedule that decides when a child stays with each parent after a divorce or separation. It used to be called visitation, but the new term reflects that both people are still parents even if they live apart.
In Indiana, the courts use specific rules to make these decisions. The Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines are a set of standards used by judges to create a schedule that prioritizes the best interests of the child based on age, safety, and family relationships.
Key Factors Determining Parenting Time in Indiana
The main goal of the Indiana court system is to do what is best for the child. Judges do not just guess what a schedule should look like.
They look at very specific facts about the family. The most important factor is often the age of the child.
A schedule that works for a teenager will not work for a newborn baby. Infants usually need frequent but short visits with the parent they do not live with to build a bond. Teenagers might need a schedule that fits around their school activities and social life.
“The child’s age and developmental stage is one of the most important factors in determining parenting time.”
The court also looks deeply at the relationship between the child and each parent. If a child has a strong and loving bond with a parent, the court wants to protect that.
However, if a parent has been absent for a long time, the court might start with shorter visits to rebuild trust. This helps the child feel safe rather than overwhelmed.
You can read the official details on how these factors are weighed in the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines provided by the Judicial Branch.
Judges also listen to the child if they are old enough. There is no specific age in Indiana where a child gets to pick where they live.
Instead, the judge considers the child’s wishes along with many other factors. The child’s preference is just one piece of a much larger puzzle.
Evaluating the Home Environment and Safety
Before a judge approves a schedule, they must know that the child will be safe. The ability to provide a stable home is a major requirement.
This does not mean a parent needs to be rich or live in a big house. It means the home must be clean, safe, and free from danger.
The court looks at basic needs first. They want to know if the parent can provide food, a warm bed, and medical care. They also look at the emotional environment.
A home filled with screaming, fighting, or stress is not considered stable. The court favors parents who can offer a calm routine.
Here is a breakdown of what courts look for in a home environment:
- Physical Safety: The home must be free from hazards, drugs, and violence.
- Routine: The parent should have a regular schedule for meals and sleep.
- Support System: Having grandparents or friends nearby to help is seen as a positive.
- Space: The child should have a dedicated space to sleep, even if it is shared.
Work schedules also play a big role in this decision. The court understands that parents have to work to support their families.
However, they look at how the work schedule affects the child. If a parent works night shifts, the court needs to know who watches the child at night.
They also look at where the parents live. If parents live far apart, a schedule that requires driving back and forth every few days might be too hard on the child.
Types of Custody and Visitation Arrangements
Indiana recognizes several different ways to split parenting time. The right choice depends entirely on the specific needs of the family.
Most families aim for an arrangement where the child sees both parents often. However, safety issues can change this significantly.
Here are the common types of arrangements seen in Indiana courts:
| Arrangement Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Joint Physical Custody | The child spends roughly equal time with both parents. | Parents who live near each other and communicate well. |
| Shared Custody | One parent has the child most of the time, but the other has significant visitation. | Situations where one parent’s work schedule is more flexible. |
| Supervised Visitation | Visits happen only with a neutral adult present to watch. | Cases involving past neglect, abuse, or safety concerns. |
| Virtual Visitation | Contact happens via video calls or phone calls. | Parents who live in different states or long distances apart. |
Supervised visitation is a serious step. It is used when the court believes the child might be in danger if left alone with a parent.
This might happen if there is a history of drug use or domestic violence. The goal is to let the child see the parent without putting them at risk.
Virtual visitation has become very popular recently. Technology allows parents to stay in touch even if they move for a job.
It does not replace physical time together. However, reading a bedtime story over a video call is better than no contact at all.
If you need help understanding which forms to file for these arrangements, resources are available at Indiana Legal Help.
The Process of Modifying Parenting Time
Life changes, and parenting schedules often need to change with it. A schedule made for a toddler will rarely work for a high school student.
In Indiana, you cannot just change the court order because you want to. You must prove that there has been a substantial change in circumstances.
Common reasons to ask for a change include a parent moving to a new city. If one parent moves three hours away, a midweek dinner visit is no longer possible.
A change in a job schedule is another common reason. If a parent switches from a day shift to a night shift, the parenting time must be adjusted.
The child’s needs also change as they grow. A child might get involved in sports or activities that conflict with the old schedule.
Sometimes, safety concerns arise that were not there before. If a parent starts engaging in dangerous behavior, the other parent needs to ask the court to limit visitation immediately.
To make these changes legal, a parent must file a motion with the court. You cannot just agree to it verbally and expect it to hold up later.
The judge will review the request. They will look at the same factors they looked at the first time.
They will ask if the change is in the best interest of the child. If the change only benefits the parent and hurts the child, the judge will likely say no.
Communication and Co-Parenting Success
The legal schedule is just a piece of paper. The real success of parenting time depends on how parents treat each other.
Indiana guidelines strongly encourage parents to work together. Conflict between parents is very damaging to children.
Good communication is the foundation of a working plan. Parents need to share information about school, health, and activities.
It is not helpful to hide information from the other parent. This usually leads to fights and more court dates.
“When parents are able to work together, they can provide the child with a stable and secure environment.”
Cooperation also means being flexible. specific situations will arise where a parent might be late due to traffic or work.
Being reasonable about small changes helps everyone. If parents fight over every minute, the child feels that tension.
The guidelines suggest treating co-parenting like a business relationship. You do not have to be friends, but you must be polite and professional.
This approach protects the child’s emotional health. Children should never be used as messengers between parents.
If communication is difficult, many parents use apps or email to stay organized. This keeps a record of what was said and reduces the need for face-to-face arguments.
Conclusion
Understanding the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines is the first step toward creating a happy life for your child after separation. By focusing on safety, stability, and good communication, you can build a schedule that truly works. Remember that the court’s main goal is the child’s well-being, and it should be yours too. Share this guide to help other parents navigate these rules. #CoParentingIndiana #FamilyLaw #ChildCustody #ParentingTime #IndianaParents
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Parenting laws can be complex and subject to change. Please consult with a qualified family law attorney in Indiana for advice regarding your specific situation.
