NO EXCUSES: Ignorance is NOT Bliss in Indiana Law

Everyone should make some effort to understand whether their actions are permitted by Indiana law — or at least, not forbidden by the law.

Before a decision is made to buy a home or open a new business, or even to cross the street, the buyer, the business person, or a walker would be well advised to examine the laws and regulations in that state, county or city. Who knows if jaywalking should be a crime or a civil ordinance violation? More importantly, does anyone care?

We’d like you to consider that, perhaps, you should care.

We’re going to take a look over the next few months at how laws are made. We’ll also discuss laws proposed in the Indiana General Assembly in 2017. You may be shaking your head, wondering how this topic could possibly interest you. It’s your responsibility as a citizen of the United States and a resident of Indiana to understand the rules that govern you.

While many people have no idea of the actual process of making laws and what those laws contain, ignorance of Indiana law is no excuse. We are required to obey the rules, regardless. The Latin sounds less harsh — Ignorantia Juris Non Excusat — but still mostly accurate. If you break the law, you will reap the consequences.

So how can someone intend to commit a crime if he or she simply doesn’t know the law prohibiting the behavior?

When you remain willfully ignorant of the law, you’re setting yourself up to break it.

Everyone should make some effort to understand whether their actions are permitted by Indiana law — or at least, not forbidden by the law. In short, if a person is going to violate the law and bring upon themselves the trouble and hassle of a law violation, that person should at least make an informed decision.

And, for additional reading pleasure in 2017, the Indiana General Assembly brings you 1,544 House Bills, 571 Senate bills, and assorted resolutions. You can find them all here:  https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2017/bills/

It’s a lot to digest — but we’re here to help. Contact our office for a free consultation.