Leblanc Nettles & DavisFindLaw IM Template2026-06-01T13:49:26Zhttps://www.leblancnettles.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1201645/2021/07/cropped-site-identity-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Leblanc Nettles Law LLC<![CDATA[My spouse earns more than I do, do they have an edge in custody decisions?]]>https://www.leblancnettles.com/?p=474102026-06-01T13:49:26Z2026-06-01T13:49:02ZA bigger paycheck can feel like a big advantage, but it does not decide custody in Indiana. Judges focus on your child’s best interests and the facts of daily life. Courts do not treat higher income as a tiebreaker. You can build a strong case by showing steady care, safe routines and a realistic plan.
How Indiana judges weigh income in custody
Judges look at your child’s needs, each parent’s involvement and what plan works best. They do not rank parents by salary. Keep these points in mind:
No presumption by gender or income: Indiana law does not favor mothers, fathers or higher earners.
Support vs custody: Child support balances income differences, while custody sets decision-making and time.
Stability and caregiving: Courts study who handles mornings, homework, doctor visits and bedtime.
Resources in context: Access to childcare and housing matters, but you can meet needs with solid plans, family help or flexible work.
Cooperation and judgment: Judges value parents who follow orders, share info and put kids first.
With those factors clear, focus on steps that show you can meet your child’s needs every week.
What you can do to level the field
You can present a clear, practical plan that fits your work and your child’s routine. Lay out details and back them with proof:
Track daily care with a simple log of pickups, meals, homework and activities
Propose a schedule that matches school and your shifts without forcing last‑minute scrambles
Line up childcare and backups, and keep written confirmations
Save school emails, grades, attendance notes and portal screenshots to show involvement
Keep pediatric and therapy records handy and attend appointments when you can
Use calm, brief messages and follow the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines
Avoid social posts that mock the other parent or show risky behavior
Budget for child costs and be ready to handle support and shared expenses on time
When you show reliable care, good judgment and a plan that works, you narrow any gap that income alone might suggest.A higher salary does not give your spouse a built‑in edge. Careful planning and steady conduct can help you secure a custody plan that serves your child and fits real life.]]>On Behalf of Leblanc Nettles Law LLC<![CDATA[5 questions new parents often ask about estate planning]]>https://www.leblancnettles.com/?p=474092026-02-27T15:03:56Z2026-02-27T15:03:56ZThe birth of a child changes everything. Priorities shift and suddenly the future feels more important than ever. Parents focus on the daily needs, but they also start thinking about the “what ifs,” the scenarios no one wants to imagine. Estate planning can feel like a daunting task, yet it is one of the clearest ways to make sure a child is cared for, even when life takes an unexpected turn.
Here are five questions new parents in Indiana often ask when beginning this process.
1. Who would take care of my child if something happened to me?
This question is often the first concern that comes to mind. Naming a guardian in a will allows parents to specify who would step in if they could not care for their child. Without such a plan, courts decide, and the outcome may not reflect a family’s values. Many parents also name an alternate guardian to make certain a trusted adult is always available to provide stability and continuity in care.
2. How can I make sure my money really goes to my child and not get stuck in court?
Parents may worry that their hard-earned assets could be delayed in probate or used in ways they did not intend. Using trusts or carefully structured beneficiary designations helps ensure funds reach the child directly, while giving parents control over timing and purpose. These tools can cover essentials like health care, education or living expenses, providing security without unnecessary court involvement.
3. What happens to my child if I don’t have any estate planning?
Without a plan, Indiana law dictates guardianship and asset distribution. Decisions are made by the courts, which may assign guardians or distribute assets in ways that do not align with parental intentions. Considering these consequences often motivates parents to act now rather than leaving critical choices to chance or strangers.
4. Do I need to update my documents as my family changes?
Life is ever-changing and marriages, divorces, additional children or changes in finances can all affect an estate plan. Periodically reviewing and updating documents help so that the plan reflects the current family structure, priorities and goals. This step reduces unintended outcomes and strengthens protections for children.
5. How can I protect my child’s future without controlling every part of their life?
Parents want to provide security while allowing children to develop independence. Thoughtful planning through trusts, staggered distributions or clear guidelines can deliver necessary support while leaving room for children to make their own decisions as they grow into adulthood.Thinking through these questions now provides peace of mind. Estate planning is a written promise that your child is cared for, even in unforeseen circumstances.
Build security for your growing family
Taking action with an Indiana attorney ensures plans are legally sound, flexible and tailored to a family’s needs. Seeking professional guidance can help you secure your child’s future and give you the reassurance that comes from knowing you have prepared for the unexpected.]]>On Behalf of Leblanc Nettles Law LLC<![CDATA[What co-parents should know about holiday time in Indiana]]>https://www.leblancnettles.com/?p=474082025-12-15T14:40:13Z2025-12-15T14:40:13ZThe holiday season brings excitement, traditions and plenty of moving parts. For parents who share custody, December can also bring questions about schedules, travel and family expectations. When children spend time in two homes, planning ahead becomes even more important. Understanding your parenting plan and Indiana’s guidelines can help you create a calmer, more predictable holiday season for your kids.
Review your current parenting plan
Before the holidays begin, take a few minutes to revisit your court order or written agreement. Holiday schedules often look different from your normal weekly routine, and the Indiana parenting time guidelines note that holiday time usually overrides standard parenting time. Many parents rotate certain holidays each year, while others divide school breaks or use set dates for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or New Year’s. Reviewing these terms early helps both parents plan ahead and avoid misunderstanding.
How Indiana courts view holiday parenting time
When disagreements arise, Indiana courts focus on supporting the child’s best interests. Judges often look at each family’s traditions, the child’s age, travel needs and how well the parents communicate. They also expect parents to follow the existing order unless both agree to temporary changes.If parents cannot agree, courts may offer a solution that keeps routines stable and gives the child meaningful time with each household.
Plan ahead to reduce holiday stress
Even when parents get along, the holidays can feel overwhelming. Early planning makes the season easier for everyone. It helps to talk through:
Travel dates and transportation plans
Pick-up and drop-off times
Out-of-state travel
School concerts or holiday events
Gift expectations or spending limits
Backup plans for winter weather or delays
A quick check-in before the holidays helps both households stay organized and reduces tension during a busy time of year.
Preparing for a smoother holiday season
A little preparation helps families feel more grounded as the holidays approach. Once you understand what your parenting plan covers, it becomes easier to set a calm tone for the season. You do not need to have every detail perfect right away. Small, steady steps can ease stress and give your children a more predictable experience.If questions come up or you feel unsure about how to handle a change, learning more about your options can offer helpful direction. With a clearer picture of what the law allows and what your plan requires, you can move into the holidays with more confidence and support.]]>On Behalf of Leblanc Nettles Law LLC<![CDATA[What you should know about estate planning for blended families in Indiana]]>https://www.leblancnettles.com/?p=474022025-09-18T09:02:33Z2025-09-18T08:49:29ZHow Indiana law views family relationships
When someone dies without a will, Indiana's intestacy law decides who gets what. These rules usually favor biological and legally adopted children. Stepchildren and unmarried partners are not included unless you name them in your estate documents. If you want to leave something to those loved ones, you must be specific.
Challenges blended families often face
Blended families often deal with more complex estate planning issues. Without clear instructions, confusion and disagreements can happen.
Here are a few examples:
Children from a previous marriage feel left out
A surviving spouse receives less than expected
Beneficiaries aren’t updated after a family change
Family members argue over what a will or trust means
Indiana families can use several legal tools to make their plans clear and enforceable:
Wills name specific heirs and guardians
Trusts control how and when assets are passed on
Beneficiary designations apply to retirement accounts and life insurance
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements set financial expectations between spouses
Powers of attorney let someone manage your finances or healthcare if needed
Each tool serves a different purpose. Together, they help build a strong plan that reflects your values and protects your loved ones.
Talk about your plan early
Legal documents are important, but they work best when paired with honest conversations. Talk to your spouse and children about your estate plan. Setting clear expectations now can help avoid surprises later.
If you’re part of a blended family and want to make sure your plan fits your life consider seeking an estate lawyer soon. Our Brownsburg-based team treats every client like family – and we’ll help you build a plan that brings peace of mind.]]>On Behalf of Leblanc Nettles Law LLC<![CDATA[Can parents relocate with their kids after a divorce?]]>https://www.leblancnettles.com/?p=473962025-06-16T23:05:52Z2025-06-16T23:05:52ZRelocations generally require approval
Parents intending to relocate with their children must provide advance notice. They generally need to communicate with the other parent and also with the courts well in advance of any proposed move. Fulfilling this requirement provides the other parent with an opportunity to raise objections or propose alternate arrangements.
Typically, any move that increases the distance between the parental households or takes the children more than 20 miles away from their current home may be significant enough to require pre-authorization. The other parent might agree that the move is necessary and likely to benefit the children.
If they do agree, then they can work with the other parents to make any necessary adjustments to the custody arrangements for the family. If they disagree about the move, then the family may require the review of the judge to settle the matter.
Judges consider the current custody arrangements and how the move might affect everyone in the family. They consider the best interests of the children, including the need to maintain a relationship with both parents. They may consider the impact of the move on shared custody and on the child's secondary relationships.
Parents may need help preparing to present their perspective in family court and to advocate for their relationship with their children, and that’s okay. Learning more about how the Indiana family courts handle complex child custody matters can help people recognize when they may need to assert themselves and their parental rights.]]>On Behalf of Leblanc Nettles Law LLC<![CDATA[The basics of green estate planning]]>https://www.leblancnettles.com/?p=473912025-03-24T03:21:18Z2025-03-24T03:21:18ZAs environmental awareness grows, more individuals are seeking ways to align their legacy with their values. One emerging approach is green estate planning—an estate planning strategy that incorporates environmentally conscious choices into the disposition of assets, burial preferences, charitable giving and long-term stewardship of land and resources. Green estate planning allows clients to reduce environmental impact while still addressing the essential legal and financial aspects of passing on wealth.
Traditional estate planning tends to focus on property distribution, tax minimization and asset protection. Green estate planning builds on this foundation by encouraging clients to think more intentionally about the environmental impact of those decisions. For instance, individuals who own land or natural resources may use conservation easements or land trusts to better ensure that their property is protected from development and maintained in its natural state.
Charitable giving with an environmental focus
Green estate plans often include charitable gifts to environmental organizations, either through direct bequests, charitable remainder trusts or donor-advised funds. These gifts can support causes such as climate change mitigation, wildlife conservation, clean water access and sustainable agriculture. Structuring these gifts strategically can also reduce the taxable estate and offer income tax benefits during the donor’s lifetime.
Digital and paperless practices
A green approach to estate planning can extend even to the planning process itself. Clients and law firms committed to sustainability may choose digital documents, secure cloud storage and electronic communications to minimize paper waste and reduce their carbon footprint. It is important to engage in thoughtful digital estate planning in this regard as well.
A thoughtful legacy
Green estate planning is about more than just asset distribution—it is about creating a legacy that reflects a lifelong commitment to sustainability, conservation and mindful stewardship. For those who view environmental responsibility as a core value, working with a skilled legal team that understands these priorities can be particularly helpful. With the right legal tools and guidance, clients can shape an estate plan that not only protects their loved ones but also honors and preserves the world they leave behind.]]>On Behalf of Leblanc Nettles Law LLC<![CDATA[How do Indiana judges divide property during a divorce?]]>https://www.leblancnettles.com/?p=473892024-12-24T20:09:51Z2024-12-24T20:09:51ZJudges look for equitable solutions
The Indiana approach to property division requires an equitable or fair solution. The state has a statute that deviates somewhat from the equitable division statutes in other nearby states. Indiana family law judges usually begin the property division process with the assumption that a 50/50 split of assets is equitable.
However, either spouse can present evidence establishing that an even division of assets and debts is not fair. Judges may look at various details from the marriage to determine if granting one spouse more property or making them responsible for more debt is a fair solution.
The duration of the marriage, the health of the spouses, the earning potential of each spouse, the custody arrangements for their minor children and their individual contributions to the marriage can influence what a judge decides is fair. Judges can award each spouse a portion of the marital property and can make them responsible for specific marital debts. They can also order the sale of assets as a means of repaying marital debt or more readily dividing the value of those assets between the spouses.
People do not have to submit to the decisions of a judge when they divorce in Indiana. It is always possible for divorcing couples to reach their own terms and then have a judge convert their proposed settlements into a property division order.
Discussing marital circumstances and learning more about divorce statutes can help people prepare for upcoming divorce negotiations. Those with accurate information about Indiana divorce rules may have an easier time settling outside of court and retaining control over the process.]]>On Behalf of Leblanc Nettles Law LLC<![CDATA[How parents can use estate plans to protect young children]]>https://www.leblancnettles.com/?p=473882024-09-17T11:12:45Z2024-09-17T11:12:45ZSelecting a guardian
The loss of a parent might lead to a child ending up in state custody or living with family members who aren't particularly supportive or compassionate. By selecting a guardian who can perform many of the same functions that parents do, parents can ensure their children receive proper support if anything happens to them.
Providing financial support
Raising children to adulthood is an expensive process. Parents often invest hundreds of thousands of dollars or more in their children by the time they become adults. Leaving an inheritance for children, possibly by funding a trust, is important to ensure their comfort when they lose their parents. Reviewing life insurance and personal financial obligations can help people ensure they leave adequate resources for their children when they die.
Addressing potential incapacity
Premature death is not the only issue that could prove detrimental to the children in a family. If either of their parents experiences a sudden medical emergency, that could be equally problematic for the entire family. Health issues that leave someone incapacitated could put stress on the family as they try to manage medical matters. Resources could also be at risk if there is no one authorized to handle financial affairs. Children may benefit from enhanced stability when their parents draft advance directives and powers of attorney to protect the family in the event of their incapacitation.
Creating an estate plan is one of the most effective means of providing support for children regardless of what may happen to the family in the future. An estate plan can provide parents with greater peace of mind and children with necessary practical support if anything unexpected happens.]]>On Behalf of Leblanc Nettles Law LLC<![CDATA[Is it a sour mood or a sign of parental alienation?]]>https://www.leblancnettles.com/?p=473872024-06-24T16:07:30Z2024-06-24T16:07:30ZWhat does parental alienation look like?
Your child has no grey area in their opinions: If your ex can do no wrong but you can do no right, this stark reality can point to parental alienation.
Your child knows way too much: A big part of telling children about your divorce was explaining it in child-appropriate terms. One of the trademarks of parental alienation can be an ex-spouse confiding compromising details (or even just lies) about you to your child. It can be stressful for children to reckon with “adult details,” and it can be an effective way for them to turn against you.
Your ex’s living space has a lot more of your kid’s items: Children tend to have favorite toys, special blankets and more. Even if custody/visitation time is an even split, an alienating parent may try to stockpile as many of these sentimental objects at their place as possible.
Your ex keeps you in the dark but monitors you: It can be a lot easier for your ex to maintain parental alienation if they check in on you, but keep you in the dark about what they did with their visitation time.
Divorce is hard enough as it is. Managing your own feelings while paying attention to the mixed feelings that children might have can be draining. If those mixed feelings seem to be directed primarily toward you and not your ex, parental alienation may be occurring. Getting in touch with a support system and advocate that can steer things toward peace once more can be an invaluable thing to do.]]>On Behalf of Leblanc Nettles Law LLC<![CDATA[What concerns do people typically address in Indiana advance directives?]]>https://www.leblancnettles.com/?p=473862024-03-28T01:37:59Z2024-03-28T01:37:59Zother advance directives can play an important role in the protection of someone who becomes devastatingly ill or severely injured. The state of Indiana recognizes numerous different documents when added to an estate plan, and these documents can help to guide the care someone receives in an emergency.
What medical issues can someone address via advance directives in an Indiana estate plan?
Life support preferences
Some people would prefer to have medical professionals take whatever steps are necessary to preserve a prolong their life in an emergency. People can leave instructions requesting robust medical care when they are ill or injured. Other people provide the opposite by requesting that healthcare professionals do not resuscitate them or limit the life support provided when they experience extreme medical hardships.
Limitations on care
Some people have very specific preferences about healthcare because of personal beliefs or their religion. For example, some people cannot receive blood transfusions, while others refuse treatment with medications developed using stem cell research. Those who have personal preferences regarding the types of care or medication they receive or even the facilities where they undergo treatment may want to outline those wishes in an advance directive.
Any anatomical gifts
People can donate organs and tissues for transplants that could save someone's life or improve the quality of someone's day-to-day lived experience. Others may donate their entire bodies for scientific research, possibly because they have unusual medical issues. Family members often struggle with decisions about anatomical gifts, making it important for those who have strong feelings on the matter to execute documents explaining their preferences.
Adding advance medical directives, including living wills and powers of attorney, to an Indiana estate plan can protect a testator drafting documents and reduce the stress on their loved ones in the event of an emergency. Those who take the time to create more robust estate plans may feel that their interests are better protected regardless of what life brings.]]>