INDIANA– The Indiana Senate Judiciary Committee has unanimously passed House Bill 1626, which will mandate that courts include detailed written findings of fact and conclusions of law in child custody orders and related appellate decisions. The bill, sponsored by Senator Liz Brown and authored by Representative Christopher Judy, aims to provide greater transparency and clarity in child custody proceedings.
Rep. Judy presented the bill to the committee on March 7, 2025, outlining its key provisions. HB 1626 requires that any court issuing a custody order or an appellate court affirming or reversing such an order provide specific findings of fact and legal conclusions that support its decision.
The Indiana State Bar Association’s Family Law Section testified in favor of the bill, highlighting its potential to improve the consistency and fairness of custody determinations. Supporters of the bill argue that requiring detailed written findings will ensure that courts thoroughly consider all relevant factors and provide a clear record of the reasoning behind their decisions.
According to the Indiana State Bar Association, this legislation represents a significant step forward in ensuring that child custody decisions are made with the utmost care and transparency. Requiring courts to articulate their reasoning promotes accountability and helps to protect the best interests of children involved in these sensitive cases.
The bill passed the Senate Judiciary Committee with a 9-0 vote, demonstrating strong bipartisan support.
HB 1626 will now move to the full Senate for further consideration.
The full text of the bill can be reviewed at: https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/house/1626.
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