VanPatten v. State, No. 02S03-1205-CR-251, __ N.E.2d __ (Ind. Ct. App., May 2, 2013).

The Evidence Rule 803(4) hearsay exception for statements made for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment was not shown to apply, because there was insufficient evidence the six year-old understood the need to provide the forensic nurse with truthful information about the suspected molestation.

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Bethea v. State, No. 18S05-1206-PC-304, __ N.E.2d __ (Ind., Mar. 12, 2013).

Overrules cases holding that an element of a charge dismissed by plea agreement cannot be used as an aggravating sentencing factor, and holds that instead elements or conduct involved in dismissed charges may be used in sentencing unless the parties provide otherwise in their plea agreement.

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Hawkins v. State, No. 20S03-1208-CR-499, __ N.E.2d __ (Ind. Ct. App., Feb. 19, 2013).

On the facts of this case, defendant’s failure to appear at his trial in absentia did not constitute a waiver of his right to counsel. And, “a trial court may conduct a sentencing hearing at which the defendant appears by video, but only after obtaining a written waiver of his right to be present and the consent of the prosecution.”

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Wisner v. Laney, No. 71S03-1201-CT-7,___ N.E.2d ___ (Ind., Dec. 12, 2012).

For purposes of the Tort Prejudgment Interest Statute, a written settlement offer must be made within one year following the filing of a claim to be eligible for prejudgment interest, and the settlement offer can be made prior to the filing of a lawsuit.

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D.C. v. J.A.C., No. 32S04-1206-DR-349, ___ N.E.2d ___ (Ind., Nov. 13, 2012).

Trial courts have considerable deference in family law matters, and the trial court had ample support to hold that it was in the child’s best interests to remain in the state.

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