Indiana
Chapter 2. Actions for Child Custody and Modification of Child Custody Orders
IC 31-17-2-1
Sec. 8. The court shall determine custody and enter a custody order in accordance with the best interests of the child. In determining the best interests of the child, there is no presumption favoring either parent. The court shall consider all relevant factors
IC 31-17-2-13
Sec. 13. The court may award legal custody of a child jointly if the court finds that an award of joint legal custody would be in the best interest of the child.
As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9.
IC 31-17-2-14
Sec. 14. An award of joint legal custody under section 13 of this chapter does not require an equal division of physical custody of the child.
As added by P.L.1-1997, SEC.9.
IC 31-17-2-15
Sec. 15. In determining whether an award of joint legal custody under section 13 of this chapter would be in the best interest of the child, the court shall consider it a matter of primary, but not determinative, importance that the persons awarded joint custody have agreed to an award of joint legal custody. The court shall also consider:
(1) the fitness and suitability of each of the persons awarded joint custody;
(2) whether the persons awarded joint custody are willing and able to communicate and cooperate in advancing the child's welfare;
(3) the wishes of the child, with more consideration given to the child's wishes if the child is at least fourteen (14) years of age; and
(4) whether the child has established a close and beneficial relationship with both of the persons awarded joint custody;
(5)whether the persons awarded joint custody:
(A) live in close proximity to each other; and
(B) plan to continue to do so; and
(6) the nature of the physical and emotional environment in the home of each of the persons awarded joint custody.
