Like all other states, Indiana child custody laws favor the child and are designed to ensure that they end up in the best situation possible. This means there are no pre-set concepts of a mother being favorable to a father, etc. Instead, the court will take into consideration many factors, including the wishes of the parents. These wishes are usually demonstrated through a separation agreement or a parenting plan that is drafted and submitted to the court during the divorce process. If the arrangements seem reasonable and are within the Indiana child custody laws, most courts will accept them. If a couple cannot come to an arrangement on their own, the judge in the case will consider the child's age and any expressed wishes, the existing relationships between the child and parents, the stability of the child's home and school life and the mental and physical status of the adult parents. Only after adding up such factors will a judge decide on the best custodial arrangements for the child.