Overview of CHINS Law in Indiana

CHINS proceedings are governed by Indiana Code Title 31 and are civil—not criminal—cases designed to protect children while preserving families whenever possible. These cases are typically initiated by the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) after reports of suspected abuse or neglect.

While the stated goal of CHINS cases is child safety and family reunification, the consequences can be severe, including court-ordered services, removal of children from the home, or termination of parental rights if reunification efforts fail.

Common Grounds for CHINS Cases

A child may be alleged to be in need of services due to:

• Abuse or neglect
• Lack of adequate food, shelter, or medical care
• Parental substance abuse
• Unsafe living conditions
• Educational neglect or chronic truancy
• Domestic violence in the home

Importantly, poverty alone is not sufficient to support a CHINS finding under Indiana law.

Stages of a CHINS Case

DCS Investigation

CHINS cases often begin with a DCS investigation following a hotline report. Caseworkers may interview parents, children, teachers, and medical providers.

Detention or Initial Hearing

If immediate safety concerns exist, children may be removed temporarily. The court reviews whether removal is necessary and what conditions must be met for reunification.

Fact-Finding Hearing

This is similar to a trial. DCS must prove the allegations by a preponderance of the evidence.

Disposition

If the child is found to be a CHINS, the court orders services such as counseling, parenting classes, substance abuse treatment, or supervised visitation.

Review and Permanency Hearings

The court monitors progress and determines long-term plans, including reunification, guardianship, or adoption if necessary.

Parental Rights and Responsibilities

Parents retain fundamental constitutional rights in CHINS cases, including:

• Right to legal counsel
• Right to present evidence and witnesses
• Right to challenge DCS allegations

However, parents must comply with court-ordered services. Failure to do so may lead to escalation, including termination of parental rights (TPR).

Why Legal Representation Matters in CHINS Cases

An experienced Indiana CHINS attorney can:

• Ensure DCS follows proper procedures
• Challenge insufficient evidence
• Advocate for family preservation
• Negotiate reasonable service plans
• Protect against unnecessary removal

Early legal involvement often significantly impacts the outcome of the case.

CHINS cases move quickly and can have lasting consequences for families. Contact us at (317) 773-4400 for experienced CHINS representation in Noblesville, Hamilton County, Indianapolis, and throughout Central Indiana.

Serving Noblesville, Hamilton County, Indianapolis, and Central Indiana

Our firm proudly serves clients in Noblesville, throughout Hamilton County, and across Indianapolis and Central Indiana. With deep knowledge of local courts, judges, procedures, and community resources, we provide practical, results-focused legal representation tailored to the unique needs of individuals, families, and businesses in this region.

Whether your legal matter is filed in Hamilton County courts, involves agencies or courts in Indianapolis, or arises elsewhere in Central Indiana, our attorneys understand the local legal landscape and how to navigate it efficiently. We combine regional insight with personalized attention, ensuring that every client receives trusted guidance close to home.

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