When facing a divorce or family law issue in Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana, you need an attorney who combines legal expertise with genuine compassion. Indianapolis-based attorney Stephanie Renner offers personalized, affordable, and effective representation for clients navigating life’s toughest transitions. Specializing in divorce and a wide range of family law matters, Stephanie is committed to helping Marion County residents find clarity and resolution. Contact attorney Renner today at 317-771-8535 or [email protected] for a free consultation and discover how she can support you in moving forward with a brighter future.  Call our office if you have questions for a divorce lawyer about Indiana Divorce Law, Child Custody, Parenting Time, Child Support, Spousal Support, Alimony, Division of Marital Property, Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements, Paternity Cases, Domestic Violence and Protective Orders, Legal Separation, Adoption and Guardianship, Post-Divorce Modifications, Relocation or Move-Away Cases, Parenting Plans, Annulment, Emancipation of Minors, or Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution.

Stephanie Renner is more than just an Indiana divorce attorney—she’s a trusted advocate for families throughout Marion County and beyond. Based in Indianapolis, Stephanie has built a thriving practice rooted in her deep understanding of Indiana law and her dedication to her clients. Her professional journey includes significant experience under Judge Joven in the Marion Superior Court, where she gained invaluable insight into the judicial process, followed by five years at J. Edgar Law Offices, sharpening her skills in litigation and client representation.
A proud graduate of Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law and Butler University, Stephanie brings a strong academic foundation to her practice. Her areas of expertise include divorce, criminal defense, expungement law, and school expulsion law. This unique blend of skills allows her to address the complex intersections of family law and past legal issues that can arise during divorce proceedings.
Stephanie’s approach is client-centered and accessible. She offers affordable and flexible payment options, including Buy Now Pay Later plans, ensuring that financial constraints don’t prevent Marion County residents from securing top-tier legal help. Known for her warm personality, Stephanie creates a welcoming environment for clients. With a track record of handling everything from straightforward uncontested divorces to high-stakes federal sentencing cases, Stephanie Renner is equipped to tackle any family law challenge you bring her way.

Divorce and Family Law Courts in Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana

For residents of Indianapolis, Lawrence, Beech Grove, Speedway, Southport, and other communities in Marion County, understanding the Divorce and Family Law Courts is essential when navigating life-changing legal matters like divorce, child custody, or protective orders. In Marion County, these cases are primarily handled by the Marion Superior Court, with some overlap from the Marion Circuit Court. Centered in Indianapolis, the county seat and Indiana’s capital, this court system serves a population of over 1 million under the Unigov framework, which merges city and county governance. Here’s a comprehensive look at the courts, their locations, and how they function for family law matters across Marion County.

Marion County operates a dual-court system with two primary judicial entities:

Marion Superior Court:

This is the workhorse for divorce in Marion County and family law cases. The Superior Court comprises 36 judges total, with a subset dedicated to the Civil Division, including a specialized Family Division. While exact numbers fluctuate, approximately 8-10 judges focus on family law at any given time, handling cases like dissolution of marriage, child support, and custody disputes. The Family Division, established with the 2022 opening of the Community Justice Campus, adopts a “one family, one judge” model, assigning all related matters to a single judge for consistency.

Marion Circuit Court:

This court has one judge and a broader jurisdiction—civil, criminal, and probate—but occasionally hears family law cases, especially if tied to other legal issues. However, most Indianapolis family law cases are routed to the Superior Court due to its specialized resources.
Together, these courts manage thousands of family law cases annually, reflecting Marion County’s size and complexity. The Superior Court’s Family Division operates multiple courtrooms—up to 71 total in the Community Justice Campus, with floors one through three dedicated to family law—ensuring capacity for residents from Lawrence to Southport.

Court Locations

The physical locations of these courts are centralized in Indianapolis, making them accessible to residents across Marion County, including Beech Grove, Speedway, and beyond:

Community Justice Campus:

Address: 695 Justice Way, Indianapolis, IN 46203
Details: Opened in April 2022, this 12-story facility southeast of downtown in the Twin Aire neighborhood is the primary hub for the Marion Superior Court’s Family Division. It houses 71 courtrooms, including 11 jury rooms, with lower floors designed for divorce in Indianapolis and family law proceedings. Features include private mediation rooms, advanced technology, and family-friendly waiting areas with calming aesthetics. Residents of Lawrence, just northeast of Indianapolis, or Southport, to the south, can reach this location via I-70 or I-65.

City-County Building:

Address: 200 E. Washington St., Suite W122, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Details: Located downtown, this historic building hosts the Marion Circuit Court and some Superior Court overflow. While less focused on family law since the Campus opened, it remains a filing point and secondary venue. It’s easily accessible for Speedway residents via I-74 or Beech Grove locals via I-465.
Before 2022, family law cases were scattered across older facilities, including the City-County Building and a juvenile court at 25th Street and Keystone Avenue. The consolidation into the Community Justice Campus has streamlined access for all Marion County residents.

How Divorce and Family Law Cases Are Processed

Marion County’s courts follow Indiana’s legal framework, tailored to local needs:

Filing:

Petitions for divorce in Marion County are filed with the Marion Superior Court Clerk at the Community Justice Campus. Residency requires six months in Indiana and three months in Marion County (Indiana Code § 31-15-2-6). E-filing is mandatory for attorneys and encouraged for self-represented litigants from Lawrence or Beech Grove via Indiana’s e-filing system.

Divorce Process:

Indiana’s no-fault system (Indiana Code § 31-15-2-3) allows divorce based on an “irretrievable breakdown,” followed by a 60-day waiting period (Indiana Code § 31-15-2-13). Uncontested cases wrap up quickly, while contested ones—common in high-population areas like Indianapolis—may involve mediation or hearings.

Property and Support:

Courts divide marital property equitably (Indiana Code § 31-15-7-5) and award spousal maintenance in specific cases (Indiana Code § 31-15-7-2), such as incapacity or temporary support needs.

Family Law Beyond Divorce:

The Family Division also manages child custody in Indianapolis (Indiana Code § 31-17-2-8), child support (Indiana Code § 31-16-6), protective orders (Indiana Code § 34-26-5), and modifications (Indiana Code § 31-17-2-21), serving families from Speedway to Southport.

Unique Features of Marion County, Indiana Courts

One Family, One Judge:

This model ensures continuity, reducing the confusion faced by families in Lawrence or Beech Grove who previously dealt with multiple judges across civil and juvenile courts.

Community Justice Campus:

With 71 courtrooms and modern amenities, the Campus addresses past issues like cramped hallways at the City-County Building. Its Smart Courts Initiative, recognized in September 2024, enhances digital access—vital for busy residents of Indianapolis and Speedway.

High Volume:

Marion County’s large population drives a significant caseload, making efficient case management critical. The Family Division triages cases to keep wait times manageable.

Accessing the Marion County, Indiana Courts

Contact:
Reach the Marion County Clerk at 317-327-4740 or visit the Community Justice Campus. Case records are online via mycase.in.gov.
Resources:
The Indiana Self-Service Legal Center (in.gov/courts/selfservice) offers forms for divorce in Indianapolis, custody, and more, while Marion County provides local forms at the clerk’s office.
Travel:
From Lawrence, take I-465 south; from Southport, head north on US-31; from Beech Grove, use I-465 west; and from Speedway, follow I-70 east to the Campus.
Practical Considerations
For residents of Indianapolis, Lawrence, Beech Grove, Speedway, or Southport, navigating these courts involves preparation:

File early and use e-filing to avoid delays.
Leverage mediation rooms at the Campus to settle disputes out of court.
The Divorce and Family Law Courts in Marion County—centered at the Community Justice Campus and supported by the City-County Building—offer a robust, modern system for resolving family disputes, serving all corners of this vibrant county.

Divorce Law in Indiana

Divorce is a life-altering event, and in Indiana, it’s legally termed a “dissolution of marriage.” As a no-fault divorce state, Indiana doesn’t require proof of infidelity or abuse to end a marriage—filing on the grounds of an “irretrievable breakdown” is sufficient. For Marion County residents, Stephanie Renner provides expert guidance through every phase of this process, ensuring your rights and interests are protected in the Marion County Circuit Court or Superior Court.

Understanding the Divorce Process in Indiana

To initiate a divorce in Marion County, Indiana law mandates that at least one spouse has been a state resident for six months and a Marion County resident for three months prior to filing. The process begins with submitting a petition to the court, followed by a mandatory 60-day waiting period—a “cooling-off” phase designed to give couples time to reconsider or negotiate terms. During this period, Stephanie Renner works diligently to prepare your case, whether it’s gathering financial documents, drafting settlement proposals, or addressing urgent issues like temporary custody or support orders.

Divorces in Marion County can take two paths: uncontested or contested. An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all terms—property division, custody, support—allowing for a faster, less expensive resolution. Stephanie offers affordable services for uncontested divorces, starting at competitive rates, making this option accessible for clients seeking an amicable split. Contested divorces, however, involve disputes that may require mediation or litigation. With her litigation experience, Stephanie excels at representing clients in court, advocating for fair outcomes when negotiations break down.

For example, imagine a Marion County couple where one spouse owns a business started during the marriage. Disagreement over its valuation could escalate into a contested divorce. Stephanie’s meticulous approach ensures that experts are consulted, assets are properly assessed, and her client’s contributions to the business are recognized by the court.

Property Division in Divorce

Indiana adheres to an “equitable distribution” standard for dividing marital property, meaning assets and debts are split fairly but not always equally. Marital property includes anything acquired during the marriage—homes, cars, bank accounts, even credit card debt—while separate property (pre-marital assets, gifts, or inheritances) typically remains with its original owner unless it’s been commingled with marital funds.
Stephanie Renner’s expertise shines in unraveling complex property division cases. She can collaborate with financial experts to value pensions, 401(k)s, and real estate, ensuring no asset is overlooked. Stephanie can help with cases involving hidden assets, such as a spouse transferring funds to a secret account. Her thorough investigation and negotiation skills help clients secure their rightful share, safeguarding their financial stability post-divorce.
Consider a scenario where one spouse claims a family heirloom as separate property, but the other argues it was used as collateral for a marital loan. Stephanie’s ability to dissect these nuances ensures the court receives a clear, evidence-based picture, leading to equitable rulings.

Spousal Maintenance (Alimony) in Indiana

Spousal maintenance isn’t automatic in Indiana divorces, but it’s available in specific circumstances. Courts may award it if one spouse is incapacitated and unable to work, needs support while caring for a disabled child, or requires temporary assistance to transition to financial independence—known as “rehabilitative maintenance.” This last type is capped at three years unless exceptional circumstances justify a longer term.
In Marion County, Stephanie Renner evaluates each case to determine if maintenance is warranted. For instance, if one client paused a career to raise children while the spouse climbed the corporate ladder, this might justify rehabilitative maintenance, allowing the client time to reenter the workforce with updated skills. Conversely, Stephanie can defend clients against excessive maintenance demands, ensuring payments align with Indiana law and the paying spouse’s ability.
Her background in complex financial litigation aids in presenting detailed income analyses, uncovering discrepancies like unreported bonuses or side businesses that could affect maintenance calculations. Whether you’re seeking support or challenging a claim, Stephanie ensures your voice is heard in Marion County courts.

Child Custody and Parenting Time under Indiana Law

Child custody disputes can be the most contentious part of a divorce, and Indiana law prioritizes the “best interests of the child.” Legal custody determines who makes decisions about education, healthcare, and religion, while physical custody dictates where the child resides. Joint custody is common, but sole custody may be awarded if one parent’s behavior—such as substance abuse or neglect—jeopardizes the child’s well-being.
Stephanie Renner approaches custody cases with sensitivity and strategy. She helps Marion County parents develop parenting plans that balance each parent’s involvement with the child’s need for consistency. For example, if one parent seeks joint custody while the other spouse plans to relocate from to another state, Stephanie can highlight the stable home environment and active role in the child’s life in order to secure a favorable parenting time arrangement.
When disputes arise post-divorce, such as one parent denying visitation, Stephanie pursues enforcement actions or modifications to existing orders. Her goal is to minimize conflict while ensuring children maintain strong relationships with both parents whenever possible.

Child Support under Indiana Law

Indiana’s child support guidelines calculate payments based on both parents’ gross incomes, the number of children, and expenses like health insurance, daycare, and extracurricular activities. In Marion County, where costs of living can vary between urban Indianapolis and suburban areas, Stephanie ensures these factors are accurately reflected in support orders.
She also handles complex cases, such as when a self-employed parent underreports income or a child has extraordinary medical needs requiring additional support. For example, Stephanie could represent a mother whose ex-husband claimed a reduced income after quitting his job to avoid higher payments. Through discovery, she might discover that the husband had a new “consulting gig”, leading to a fair support adjustment. Whether you’re seeking support or defending against an unfair obligation, Stephanie’s attention to detail delivers results.

Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements under Indiana Law

Prenuptial agreements, signed before marriage, and postnuptial agreements, created during marriage, can streamline divorce proceedings by predefining property division and support terms. In Marion County’s diverse community—ranging from young professionals in downtown Indianapolis to established families in Broad Ripple—these agreements are increasingly popular for protecting assets like businesses, inheritances, or real estate.
Stephanie Renner guides clients through drafting agreements that comply with Indiana law, which requires full disclosure and voluntary consent. She also reviews existing contracts to ensure enforceability, addressing issues like vague language or coercion that could render them invalid. For example, she might help a client enforce a prenup that preserved her family farm, despite her ex-husband’s claim it was outdated. Stephanie’s proactive counsel offers peace of mind, whether you’re planning a marriage or safeguarding your current one. For more details about prenuptial agreements, click here.

Domestic Violence and Protective Orders under Indiana Law

Divorce can expose or escalate domestic violence, impacting custody, property, and personal safety. Indiana law allows victims to request protective orders, barring an abusive spouse from contact and potentially their shared home. Violations carry criminal penalties, providing a strong deterrent.
Stephanie Renner supports Marion County clients by filing for protective orders and integrating these concerns into divorce proceedings if needed. Her criminal defense experience enhances her ability to address false allegations, ensuring fair treatment for all parties. For instance, she could help a mother secure a protective order and sole custody after documenting her ex-spouse’s threatening behavior, all while expediting the divorce to minimize her client’s exposure to risk.

Modifications and Enforcement under Indiana Law

Post-divorce life isn’t static—job changes, remarriages, or relocations can necessitate updates to custody, support, or maintenance orders. In Marion County, Stephanie Renner handles modification petitions, proving “substantial and continuing” changes in circumstances to justify adjustments. She also pursues enforcement when an ex-spouse fails to comply, such as withholding child support or violating parenting time schedules.
Take the case of a father who lost his job and couldn’t afford his original support amount. Stephanie would petition for a temporary reduction, later restoring it when his income stabilized. Her pragmatic approach keeps orders fair and enforceable, adapting to life’s unpredictability.

Why Choose Family Law Attorney Stephanie Renner in Indiana?

Stephanie Renner is the clear choice for divorce and family law in Marion County because she offers:

• Local Insight: Her extensive experience in Indiana procedures gives clients an edge.
• Tailored Advocacy: Stephanie listens to your unique story, crafting strategies that align with your goals—whether that’s a quick settlement or a hard-fought trial.
• Affordability: Affordable payment plans make her services accessible to all income levels.
• Broad Expertise: From expungements to federal litigation, her diverse background tackles multifaceted cases with confidence.
• Client Commitment: Fully available and responsive, Stephanie ensures you’re never left in the dark during your case

Contact Indiana Divorce Attorney Stephanie Renner Today

Don’t face divorce or family law challenges in Marion County alone. Attorney Stephanie Renner is ready to stand by your side with expertise, empathy, and unwavering support. Whether you’re dissolving a marriage, fighting for custody, or planning your financial future, she has the skills to deliver results.
Call 317-771-8535 or email or [email protected] now for a free consultation. Serving Indianapolis and all of Marion County, Stephanie Renner is your partner in navigating divorce and beyond. Take the first step toward resolution today.