(a)(1) In any tort claim settlement involving a minor, the court shall conduct a hearing at which the minor and legal guardian are present if the tort claim settlement:
(A) Is a settlement of ten thousand dollars ($10,000) or more;(B) Is a structured settlement; or(C) Involves a minor who is not represented by an attorney licensed to practice in this state.(2) Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1), the court may, in its discretion, conduct the hearing in chambers or by remote communication and may excuse the minor from attending the hearing.(b) A tort claim settlement does not otherwise require court approval merely because it involves a minor.(c) In the order approving a tort claim settlement authorized by this section, the court has the discretion to determine whether the settlement proceeds are to be paid to the minor’s legal guardian or held in trust by the court until the appropriate time.
