Indiana legal term
Matter in Indiana Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Indiana legislative session
In Indiana criminal law, “Matter” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the Indiana criminal code.
What does “Matter” mean in Indiana criminal law?
"Matter" means: (1) any book, magazine, newspaper, or other printed or written material; (2) any picture, drawing, photograph, motion picture, digitized image, or other pictorial representation; (3) any statue or other figure; (4) any recording, transcription, or mechanical, chemical, or electrical reproduction; or (5) any other articles, equipment, machines, or materials. (Ind. Code § 35-49-1-3)
Statutes defining or using this term
Charges using this term
- Obstruction of justice
- Probable cause; suspension of driving privileges; ignition interlock device; violation
- Sale, distribution, or exhibition of obscene matter
- Conflict of interest
- Dissemination of matter or conducting performance harmful to minors
- Indecent display by a youth
- Legend drug deception; penalty
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.