In the Interest of: A.J.D., a Minor ( 2017 )

J-S09032-17
NON-PRECEDENTIAL DECISION - SEE SUPERIOR COURT I.O.P. 65.37
IN THE INTEREST OF: A.J.D., A MINOR IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF
PENNSYLVANIA
APPEAL OF: D.D., FATHER
No. 2781 EDA 2016
Appeal from the Decree July 21, 2016
in the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County
Family Court at Nos.: CP-51-AP-0000422-2016
CP-51-DP-0002411-2014
FID: 51-FN-002210-2014
BEFORE: SHOGAN, J., STABILE, J., and PLATT, J.*
MEMORANDUM BY PLATT, J.: FILED MARCH 22, 2017
D.D. (Father) appeals from the decree of the Court of Common Pleas
of Philadelphia County (trial court), entered July 21, 2016, that terminated
his parental rights to his daughter, A.J.D., born in June of 2012. This decree
also changed A.J.D.’s goal to adoption.1 We affirm.
Philadelphia’s Department of Human Services (DHS) filed a petition to
terminate Father’s parental rights to A.J.D. on May 12, 2016. The trial court
aptly summarized the events that led DHS to file the petition in its opinion
____________________________________________
*
Retired Senior Judge assigned to the Superior Court.
1
The parental rights of S.C., the mother of A.J.D., were also terminated,
and this Court addresses her appeal from the court’s decree in a separate
memorandum.
J-S09032-17
entered September 29, 2016. We direct the reader to that opinion for the
facts of this case.
The trial court held a hearing on DHS’ petition on July 21, 2016.
Testifying at that hearing, in addition to Father, were Turning Points for
Children case managers, Carol Robinson and Sharita Lee. The trial court
entered its decree terminating Father’s parental rights pursuant to 23
Pa.C.S.A. § 2511(a)(1), (2), (8), and (b) on July 21, 2016. Father filed a
timely notice of appeal and concise statement of errors complained of on
appeal on August 19, 2016. See Pa.R.A.P. 1925(a)(2)(i). The trial court
entered an opinion on September 29, 2016. See Pa.R.A.P. 1925(a)(2)(ii).
Father raises the following questions for our review:
1. Did the trial court err in changing the goal to adoption and
terminating [Father’s] parental rights because [DHS] failed to
establish by clear and convincing evidence that [Father] has
evidence [sic] a settled purpose of purpose of [sic] relinquishing
claim to a child or has refused or failed to his perform [sic]
parental duties[?]
2. Did the trial court err in changing the goal to adoption and
terminating [Father’s] parental rights as [DHS] failed to establish
by clear and convincing evidence that the incapacity, abuse,
neglect or refusal of [Father] cannot or will not be remedied by
[Father][?]
3. Did the trial court err in changing the goal to adoption and
terminating [Father’s] parental rights because [DHS] failed to
establish by clear and convincing evidence that [twelve] months
or more have elapsed from the date of removal or placement,
the conditions which led to the removal or placement continue to
exist, and termination would best serve the needs and welfare of
[C]hild[?]
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J-S09032-17
4. Did the trial court err in changing the goal to adoption and
terminating [Father’s] parental rights as [DHS] failed to establish
by clear and convincing evidence that termination of parental
rights would best serve the needs and welfare of [Child?]
(Father’s Brief, at 3).
Our standard of review is as follows:
In an appeal from an order terminating parental rights, our
scope of review is comprehensive: we consider all the evidence
presented as well as the trial court’s factual findings and legal
conclusions. However, our standard of review is narrow: we will
reverse the trial court’s order only if we conclude that the trial
court abused its discretion, made an error of law, or lacked
competent evidence to support its findings. The trial judge’s
decision is entitled to the same deference as a jury verdict.
In re L.M., 923 A.2d 505, 511 (Pa. Super. 2007) (citations omitted).
Further, we have stated:
Where the hearing court’s findings are supported by
competent evidence of record, we must affirm the hearing court
even though the record could support an opposite result.
We are bound by the findings of the trial court
which have adequate support in the record so long
as the findings do not evidence capricious disregard
for competent and credible evidence. The trial court
is free to believe all, part, or none of the evidence
presented, and is likewise free to make all credibility
determinations and resolve conflicts in the evidence.
Though we are not bound by the trial court’s
inferences and deductions, we may reject its
conclusions only if they involve errors of law or are
clearly unreasonable in light of the trial court’s
sustainable findings.
In re M.G., 855 A.2d 68, 73-74 (Pa. Super. 2004) (citations omitted).
Here, the trial court terminated Father’s parental rights pursuant to 23
Pa.C.S.A. § 2511(a)(1), (2), (8), and (b). In order to affirm the termination
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J-S09032-17
of parental rights, this Court need only agree with any one subsection of
Section 2511(a). See In re B.L.W., 843 A.2d 380, 384 (Pa. Super. 2004)
(en banc), appeal denied, 863 A.2d 1141 (Pa. 2004). Requests to have a
natural parent’s rights terminated are governed by 23 Pa.C.S.A. § 2511,
which provides, in pertinent part:
§ 2511. Grounds for involuntary termination
(a) General rule.—The rights of a parent in regard to a child
may be terminated after a petition filed on any of the following
grounds:
(1) The parent by conduct continuing for a period of at least
six months immediately preceding the filing of the petition
either has evidenced a settled purpose of relinquishing
parental claim to a child or has refused or failed to perform
parental duties.
* * *
(b) Other considerations.—The court in terminating the rights
of a parent shall give primary consideration to the
developmental, physical and emotional needs and welfare of the
child. The rights of a parent shall not be terminated solely on
the basis of environmental factors such as inadequate housing,
furnishings, income, clothing and medical care if found to be
beyond the control of the parent. With respect to any petition
filed pursuant to subsection (a)(1), (6) or (8), the court shall not
consider any efforts by the parent to remedy the conditions
described therein which are first initiated subsequent to the
giving of notice of the filing of the petition.
23 Pa.C.S.A. § 2511(a)(1), (b).
It is well settled that a party seeking termination of a parent’s rights
bears the burden of proving the grounds to so do by “clear and convincing
evidence,” a standard which requires evidence that is “so clear, direct,
weighty, and convincing as to enable the trier of fact to come to a clear
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J-S09032-17
conviction, without hesitance, of the truth of the precise facts in issue.” In
re T.F., 847 A.2d 738, 742 (Pa. Super. 2004) (citation omitted). Further,
[a] parent must utilize all available resources to preserve
the parental relationship, and must exercise reasonable firmness
in resisting obstacles placed in the path of maintaining the
parent-child relationship. Parental rights are not preserved by
waiting for a more suitable or convenient time to perform one’s
parental responsibilities while others provide the child with his or
her physical and emotional needs. . . .
In the Interest of K.Z.S., 946 A.2d 753, 759 (Pa. Super. 2008) (citations
omitted).
In regard to incarcerated persons, our Supreme Court has stated:
[I]ncarceration is a factor, and indeed can be a determinative
factor, in a court’s conclusion that grounds for termination exist
under § 2511(a)(2) where the repeated and continued incapacity
of a parent due to incarceration has caused the child to be
without essential parental care, control or subsistence and that
the causes of the incapacity cannot or will not be remedied.
* * *
[W]e now definitively hold that incarceration, while not a litmus
test for termination, can be determinative of the question of
whether a parent is incapable of providing “essential parental
care, control or subsistence” and the length of the remaining
confinement can be considered as highly relevant to whether
“the conditions and causes of the incapacity, abuse, neglect or
refusal cannot or will not be remedied by the parent,” sufficient
to provide grounds for termination pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. §
2511(a)(2). If a court finds grounds for termination under
subsection (a)(2), a court must determine whether termination
is in the best interests of the child, considering the
developmental, physical, and emotional needs and welfare of the
child pursuant to § 2511(b). In this regard, trial courts must
carefully review the individual circumstances for every child to
determine, inter alia, how a parent’s incarceration will factor into
an assessment of the child’s best interest.
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J-S09032-17
In re Adoption of S.P., 47 A.3d 817, 828, 830-31 (Pa. 2012) (case
citations omitted).
To terminate parental rights pursuant to section 2511(a)(1), the
person or agency seeking termination must demonstrate through clear and
convincing evidence “that[,] for a period of at least six months prior to the
filing of the petition, the parent’s conduct demonstrates a[] settled purpose
to relinquish parental rights or that the parent has refused or failed to
perform parental duties.” In re Adoption of M.E.P., 825 A.2d 1266, 1272
(Pa. Super. 2003) (citation omitted).
With respect to section 2511(a)(1), our Supreme Court has held:
Once the evidence establishes a failure to perform parental
duties or a settled purpose of relinquishing parental rights, the
court must engage in three lines of inquiry: (1) the parent’s
explanation for his or her conduct; (2) the post-abandonment
contact between parent and child; and (3) consideration of the
effect of termination of parental rights on the child pursuant to
Section 2511(b).
Matter of Adoption of Charles E.D.M., II, 708 A.2d 88, 92 (Pa. 1998)
(citation omitted). Further,
the trial court must consider the whole history of a given case
and not mechanically apply the six-month statutory provision.
The court must examine the individual circumstances of each
case and consider all explanations offered by the parent facing
termination of his or her parental rights, to determine if the
evidence, in light of the totality of the circumstances, clearly
warrants the involuntary termination.
In re B, N.M., 856 A.2d 847, 855 (Pa. Super. 2004), appeal denied, 872
A.2d 1200 (Pa. 2005) (citations omitted).
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J-S09032-17
The Adoption Act provides that a trial court “shall give primary
consideration to the developmental, physical and emotional needs and
welfare of the child.” 23 Pa.C.S.A. § 2511(b). The Act does not make
specific reference to an evaluation of the bond between parent and child but
our case law requires the evaluation of any such bond. See In re E.M., 620
A.2d 481, 485 (Pa. 1993). However, this Court has held that the trial court
is not required by statute or precedent to order a formal bonding evaluation
performed by an expert. See In re K.K.R.-S., 958 A.2d 529, 533 (Pa.
Super. 2008).
“In an appeal from a goal change order, our standard of review is
abuse of discretion; we are bound by the facts as found by the trial court
unless they are not supported in the record.” In re L.J., 691 A.2d 520, 523
(Pa. Super. 1997), appeal denied, 699 A.2d 735 (Pa. 1997) (citation
omitted).
We have examined the opinion entered by the trial court on
September 29, 2016, in light of the record in this matter, and are satisfied
that the opinion is a complete and correct analysis of this case. Accordingly,
we affirm the decree of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County
that terminated Father’s parental rights and changed A.J.D.’s goal to
adoption on the basis of the opinion of the Honorable Joseph Fernandes.
Decree affirmed.
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J-S09032-17
Judgment Entered.
Joseph D. Seletyn, Esq.
Prothonotary
Date: 3/22/2017
-8-
Circulated 03/02/2017 12:48 PM
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
FOR THE COUNTY OF PIDLADELPHIAJ
FAMILY COURT DIVISION
In the Interest ofR.C.S.III, a Minor CP-5J-DP-0002410-2ql4
CP-51-AP-0000623-2q16
In the Interest of A.J.D., a Minor CP-51-DP-000241 l-2ql4
CP-5 l-AP-0000422-2©1 l 6
. I
FID: 51-FN-002210-2114
APPEAJ.., OF: S.C., Mother 2684/2685 EDA 2016
APPEAL OF: D.D., Father 2781 EDA 2016
OPINION
Fernandes, J.: I ....
Appellants S.C. ("Mother") and D.D. ("Father") appeal from the order entered on July 21, .<'.iJ16,
granting the petition fi'ed '.1y the Philadelphia Department of Human Services ("DHS"), to
in- -olmtarily terminar- l.Jother's and Father's parent,' ·igbts to R.C.S.IIJ f'Child 1 ") and A.J.D.
("Child 2 ") ("Children") pursuant to the Adoption Act, 23 Pa. C. S .A. § 251 la)(!), (2), (8) ad (b).
Carla Beggin, Esq., counsel for Mother, and Scott Gessner, Esq., counsel ~or Father, filed tim :l_-.,
Notices of Appeal with Statements of Matters Complained of on Appeal pJsuant to Rule 192 'b ·.
Factual and Procedural Background: I
The family in this case has been known to DHS since September 28, 2014 when DHS receivecl a
I
General Protective Services ("GPS") report that Mot~er was living with e Children in a home
without utilities, and that Mother smoked hi.arijuana around the Children. 1J:he following di...;' DH'.
visited the home and found that there wJre no utilities and the home wJ~ in foreclosure. DHS
developed a Safety Plan and placed the Children with their maternal grJdmother. At the time
FatJ..er, ': lio is the father of Child 2, was incarcerated, On October 14, db 14, DHS learned that
maternal grand.nother had return~d t.he Cfldren to Mother. DHS obtaine I/ an Order of Protective
Custody ("OPC") and placed the Children in a foster home. Following a J ferred adjudication on
. October 27, 2014, Child 1 was plLed wJh his fath~r in the home of a patlmal aunt. Child 2 was
Page 1 of 16
adjudicated dependent on October 27, 2014, and fully committed to DHS.1 e trial court ordered
Mother and Father for a drug screen, dual diagnosis assessment and monitoring, and for programs
at the Achieving Reunification ceJter ("ARC"). The case was then transfehed to a Community
Umbrella Agency ("CUA"). On Ndvember 6, 2014, CUA developed a Sing b Case Plan ("SCP").
Mother's and Father's objectives rJmained to report to the Clinical Evaluation Unit ("CEU") for
a drug screen, dual diagnosis assessment and monitoring, and ARC services. On January 5, 2015,
CUA visited Child 1 in patemll akt's home. Paternal aunt's paramour m de homicidal threats
towards CUA. As a result Child 1 was removed and placed in the foster hoke with Child 2. On
February 23, 2015, Child 1 was adf dicated dependent and fully committed/ o DHS. Mother was
referred for parenting, anger management and drug and alcohol treatment at ARC on March 19,
2015. Father was referred to iR.c the same day for parenting. Over the ciurse of 2015, Mother
repeatedly tested positive for amphetamines, and attempted to dilute he urine. Mother was
ordered to comply with CE1 cmJg screen assessments including three r doms, and provide
documentation as to the completion of any programs. Father has repeat. dly shown traces of
opiates on his drug tests. FaJ.er las also ordered to comply with CEU d g screens, complete
anger management and provide d+umentation of his medical condition. either was ever rated
above moderately compliant bi th court. Both parents were ordered to h e weekly supervised
visits at CUA. Throughout the life of this case Father has been in and out o jail. Neither Mother
nor Father has had stable houding. On May 12, 2016, DHS filed petitions o terminate Mother's
and Father's parental rights. /
The termination and goal chle t ial was held on July 21, 2016. Mother id not attend the trial,
though she had been present lt tJe previous hearing and signed a subpo na on May 31, 2016.
Mother's counsel stipulated to the facts alleged in the petition for involuntary termination. (N.T.
7/21/16, pg. 6). The CUA case manager testified that Mother's SCP obj! ctives were to obtain
drug and alcohol treatment, attbnd ~upervised visitation, obtain housing and successfully complete
ARC services. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 15-16). The CUA case manager testifier that Mother had told
her she was enrolled in drug jd alcohol treatment with Solutions in Recovery, and produced a
certificate to that effect. However the CUA case manager testified that she as not sure Solutions
'Father filed an appeal of the trial court'j adjudication of dependency on November 26, 2p14. The Superior Court
affirmed the trial court's decision in a non-precedential opinion on July 7, 2015. In the Matter of A.D. Child, 3574
EDA 2014 (Pa. Super. 2014).
Page 2 of 16
in Recovery even existed, or whether it was an acceptable drug treatment program. (N. T. 7 /21/16,
pg. 29). The CU A case manager testified that Mother; s visits were not prof uctive. Mother brought
the Children unhealthy foods, which caused them to vomit and have diar:uhea. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs.
17, 24). Mother also criticized the Children's dancing skills during visi,. (N. T. 7 n 1/16, pg. 18).
Mother had not visited in some time because she was hospitalized at Friends Hospital on a "201,"
but never called CUA to cancel visits or clarify if she would be attending, Mother is currently at
the Kirkbride drug rehabilitation facility as an inpatient. (N. T. 7 /21/16, p, s. 14-17). The Children
separate easily from Mother when visits are over, and are eager to retub to their foster parent.
I
(N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 17). There would be no irreparable harm to the Children if Mother's parental
rights were terminated. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 18-19). Mother wa~ evicJed from her housing in
I
November 2015, and has not had appropriate housing since that time. CNj·T. 7/21/16, pgs. 78-79).
Mother was referred to ARC several times, and finally completed a parenting class at PAN. (N.T.
7/21/16, pg. 30). Mother did not complete the mental health servlces at ARC, and was
unsuccessfull y discharged. (NJ 7/21/ 16, pg. 25). The Children look to reir foster parent for all
their needs. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 79). Foster parent pays for day care jd summer camp out-of-
pocket. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 29). The Children look forward to a permanent future with the foster
parent, who they see as their "1mmy''. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 18, 26, 75). .
The prior CUA social worker testified that Father had been imprisone since December 2015.
I
(N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 63). Prior to bis incarceration, Father's objectives ha been to complete anger
management and parenting at AR.c, provide documentation of his medical condition and find
appropriate housing. Father alko had to comply with CEU drug scre!ns, dual diagnosis and
randoms. (See DHS Exhibits 7, ~, 10, 14). Father was discharged from AR.c for non-attendance,
and had been evicted from ahouJe with no working utilities. (N.T. 7/21/IJ, pg. 57, 59, 68). Father
is currently in jail at the PhiiadelJhia Detention Center. The CUA social I orker had contacted the
prison social worke~ and left contact information. Father never contracted the CUA social worker.
(N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 55-56). The prison social worker could not confirm that Father had engaged
in any services in prison. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 55-56, 67). Father had claimed in the past to be
suffering from lung cancer, and liad been ordered by the court to provide !documents to verify his
cancer diagnosis. Father never Jrovided documents or proof that he had cancer. (N. T. 7 /21/16,
pgs. 64-65).
Page 3 of 16
Father was present, having been brought from prison for the trial. Father testified that he had
completed anger management in prison, and had taken the course a sec+d time to improve his
skills even further. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 90-91). This anger management course also included
substance abuse treatment. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 103). Father gave confusing
I
and inconsistent
testimony on his criminal charges, mentioning a drug charge, a violation of probation, a weapons
I
charge, a burglary charge and a charge for receipt of stolen property. (N.1f. 7/21/16, pgs. 92-93).
He testified he would be released on September 8, 2016, though a number of his charges had not
I
even gone to sentencing. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 104). Father testified that he had housing-the same
house he had been living in when incarcerated. He did not pay rent on the house, and did not know
if Mother still paid rent. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 93-94). Father also testified that his mother had died
and left him an appropriate house in her will, but that the rental property was still the place he
intended to reunify with his child. (N. T. 7/21/16, pg. 97). Father testified that he still had cancer,
but was waiting to see the outcome of the termination trial before seeking treatment. (N. T. 7 /21/16,
pg. 107). The trial court terminated Mother's parental rights to the Chillen under 23 Pa.C.S.A.
§2511(a)(l), (2), (8) and (b). (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 36, 116). The trial court then terminated Father's
parental rights to Child 2 under 23 Pa.C.S.A. §251 l(a)(l), (2), (8) and (b). (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 116).
The court found that adoption would be in the best interest of the Children, and changed their
permanency goals to adoption. On August 19, 2016, Mother and Father filed appeals of the
termination and goal change.2
Discussion:
Mother raises the following errors on appeal:
1. The trial court erred when it found that [DRS] by clear and convincing evidence had met
its burden to terminate [Mother J's parental rights pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S.A. §251 l(a).
2. The trial court erred when it found that the termination of Mother's parental rights was in
the Children's best interests and that [DRS] had met its burden pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S.A.
§251l(b).
3. The trial court erred in changing the permanent placement goal from reunification to
adoption.
2
The trial court also terminated the parental rights of Child l's father on July 21, 2016. This father has not
appealed.
Page 4 of 16
Father alleges that the court erred in changing the goal to adoption and terminating Father's
parental rights as DHS failed to establish by clear and convincing evidence that:
1. [Father] has evidenced a settled purpose of relinquishing parental claim to [the Children]
or has refused or failed to perform parental duties.
2. The incapacity, abuse, neglect or refusal of [Father] cannot or will not be remedied by the
parent.
3. [Father] cannot or will not remedy those conditions within a reasonable period of time, the
services or assistance reasonably available to the parent are not likely to remedy the
conditions which led to the removal or placement of the [Children] within a reasonable
period of time and termination of the parental rights would best serve the needs and welfare
of the child.
4. Termination of parental rights would best serve the needs and welfare of the child.
For the purposes of this appeal, Mother's and Father's issues will be consolidated into the
following: Did the trial court err in terminating Mother's and Father's parental rights under 23
Pa.C.S.A. §2511(a)(l), (2), (8) and (b) and changing the goal to adoption?
Mother and Father have appealed the involuntary termination of their parental rights. The grounds
for involuntary termination of parental rights are enumerated in the Adoption Act at 23 Pa.C.S.A.
§251 l(a), which provides the following grounds for §251 l(a)(l):
(a) General rule - The rights of a parent, in regard to a child, may be terminated after a
petition is filed on any of the following grounds:
(1) The parent, by conduct continuing for a period of at least six months immediately
preceding the filing of the petition, has either evidenced a settled purpose of relinquishing
parental claim to a child or has refused or failed to perform parental duties.
Inproceedings to involuntarily terminate parental rights the burden of proof is on the party seeking
termination, which must establish the existence of grounds for termination by clear and convincing
evidence. In re Adoption o(Atencio, 650 A.2d 1064 (Pa. 1994). To satisfy section (a)(l), the
moving party must produce clear and convincing evidence of conduct sustained for at least six
months prior to the filing of the termination petition, which reveals a settled intent to relinquish
parental claim to a child or a refusal or failure to perform parental duties. However, the six-month
Page 5 of 16
ti.me period should not be applied mechanically; instead, the court must consider the whole history
of the case. In re B.NM, 856 A.2d 847, 855 (Pa. Super. 2004). The standard of clear and
convincing evidence is defined as testimony that is so clear, direct weighty and convincing as to
enable the trier of fact to come to a clear conviction without hesitance of the truth of precise facts
in issue. A parent's incarceration does not preclude termination of parental rights if the
incarcerated parent fails to utilize the given resources and to take affirmative steps to support a
parent-child relationship. In re DJS., 737 A.2d 283 (Pa. Super. 1999). I
The petitions for involuntary termination were filed on July 12, 2016. Mother's SCP objectives
were to attend drug and alcohol treatment, obtain appropriate housing, attend supervised visits and
attend ARC for mental health treatment. Mother also had parenting and anger management as
objectives. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 15-16), (DHS Exhibits 7, 9, 10, 14). Mother told the CUA case
manager that she was enrolled in drug and alcohol treatment with Solutions in Recovery, and
produced a certificate to that effect. However the CUA case manager testified that she was not
sure Solutions in Recovery even existed, or whether it was an acceptable drug treatment program.
(N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 29). Mother is currently at Kirkbride, a drug rehabilitation center in
Philadelphia as an inpatient. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 16, 22). Throughout the life of the case, Mother
has refused to comply with the court-ordered dual diagnosis assessment. However, Mother has
provided drug screens from the CEU with positive results as indicated in DHS's Involuntary
Termination Petition. On April 2, 2015, Mother tested positive for amphetamines and opiates; on
September 30, 2015, Mother tested positive for amphetamines. On November 12, 2015, and
December 11, 2015, she again tested positive for amphetamines. On August 19, 2015, and
December 17, 2015, Mother submitted diluted urine drug screens, as evidenced by the creatinine
levels. Mother was evicted from her housing in November 2015, and did not have appropriate
housing at any point during the six-month period prior to the filing of the petitions. (N.T. 7 /21/16,
pgs. 78-79). Mother did not complete the mental health services at ARC, and was unsuccessfully
discharged. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 25). On July 6, 2016, Mother voluntarily admitted herself for
depression and was hospitalized at Friends Hospital in Philadelphia. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 14).
During her hospitalization Mother could not visit with the Children. Mother did not contact CUA
to inform them that she was unable to make visits. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 16-17). Mother did visit
with the Children prior to her hospitalization, but the visits were not productive. Mother brought
Page 6 of 16
the Children foods that made them ill, and inappropriately criticized their dancing. (N.T. 7/21/16,
pgs. 17-18, 24). Mother did not complete any programs at ARC, including anger management.
.(N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 25). Mother finally completed a parenting class at PAN on August 15, 2015.
(N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 30). Looking beyond the six-month period, Mother has never been more than
moderately compliant with her objectives. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 15-16). By her own conduct, for a
period of at least six months prior to the filing of the petition, Mother evidenced a settled purpose
of relinquishing her parental claim since she has failed or refused to perform parental duties. As
a result the trial court did not abuse its discretion by finding clear and convincing evidence that
DHS met its burden under Section 251 l(a)(l). Termination under this section was proper.
The petition for involuntary termination was also filed against Father on July 12, 2016. During
the entire six-month period prior to the filing of the petition, Father was incarcerated. (N.T.
7/21/16, pg. 63). The CUA social worker contacted the prison and spoke to Father's assigned
prison social worker. The CUA social worker left contact information, but was not able to obtain
any information about Father's engagement with programs in prison. (N. T. 7/21/16, pgs. 54-56).
Father's SCP objectives were to complete anger management, have visits with Child 2, arrange for
appropriate housing, comply with CEU drug screens, dual diagnosis and randoms, parenting and
provide documentation about his medical condition. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 57, 68), (DHS Exhibits
7, 9, 10, 14). Father testified that he had completed anger management in prison, and had taken
the course a second time to improve his skills even further. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 90-91). Tlns anger
management course also covered substance abuse. · Father did not produce documents showing
that he had actually successfully completed anger management and substance abuse. According
to Father he was never involved with drugs and had no history of doing drugs. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs.
55-56, 100-101, 103). However, prior to his incarceration, Father provded a drug screen from the .
CEU whereby he tested positive for amphetamines on December 14, 2015, as indicated in DHS's
Petition for Involuntary Termination. Throughout the life of this case, Father has refused to
comply with the court-ordered dual diagnosis assessment. The CUA worker left contact
information for Father, but he never called to explore visits with Child 2. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 54-
56). Father admitted he had an option to put the CUA worker's number on bis prison call list, but
chose not to. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 98). Father was court-ordered to have only supervised visits with
Child 2, but he testified that Mother would put him on the phone with Child 2. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs.
Page 7 of 16 I
I
98-99). Father testified that he had appropriate housing for his release. He mentioned the house
he had been living in when incarcerated, but he did not pay rent en the house, and did not know if
Mother still paid rent. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 93-94). Father also testified that his mother had died
and left him a house in her will, but that the rental property was still the place he intended to reunify
with his child. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 97). Father had previously delayed completion of his objectives,
claiming he had cancer. Father had been ordered by the court to show CUA written proof of his
diagnosis, but had not done so. (N. T. 7 /21/16, pgs. 64-65). Father testified that he still had cancer,
but was waiting to see the outcome of the termination trial before seeking treatment. (N.T. 7/21/16,
pg. 107). Looking beyond the six-month period, Father has never been compliant with court orders
or successfully completed all his SCP objectives. Father has not shown that he used the resources
of the prison to affirmatively parent Child 2. Father evidenced a settled purpose of relinquishing
his parental claim since he has failed to perform parental duties. As a result the trial court did not
abuse its discretion by finding clear and convincing evidence that Father, by his conduct, had
refused and failed to perform parental duties, so termination under this section was proper.
The trial court also terminated Mother's and Father's parental rights under 23 Pa.C.S.A.
§2511 (;1)(2). This section of the Adoption Act includes, as a ground for involuntary termination
of parental rights, the repeated and continued incapacity, abuse, neglect or refusal of the parent
that causes the child to be without essential parental care, control or subsistence necessary for his
physical or mental well-being; and the conditions and causes of the incapacity, abuse, neglect or
refusal cannot or will not be remedied by the parent. This ground is not limited to affirmative
misconduct. It may include acts of refusal to perform parental duties, but focuses more specifically
on the needs of the child. Adoption of CA. W., 683 A.2d 911, 914 (Pa. Super. 1996).
Mother's SCP objectives were to obtain drug and alcohol treatment, attend supervised visitation,
obtain housing and successfully complete ARC services for parenting and mental health. Mother
also had parenting and anger management as objectives. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 15-16), (DHS
Exhibits 7, 9, 10, 14). Mother was enrolled in drug and alcohol treatment with Solutions in
Recovery. However, the trial court heard testimony that Solutions in Recovery may not even exist,
and may not be an appropriate treatment facility. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 29). Mother is currently at
Kirkbride as an inpatient. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 16, 20). Mother has refused to attend the CEU for
court-ordered dual diagnosis assessment and has tested positive for amphetamines and opiates,
Page 8 ofl6
including providing diluted urine drug screens, as indicated in DHS's Petition for Involuntary
Termination. Mother's visits were consistent but not productive. Mother brought the Children
unhealthy foods, which caused them to vomit and have diarrhea. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 17, 24).
Mother also criticized the Children's dancing skills during visits. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 1,8). Mother
had not visited in some time because she was hospitalized at Friends Hospital on a "201," but
never called CUA to cancel visits or clarify if she would be attending. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 14-17).
Mother was evicted from her housing in November 2015, and has not had appropriate housing
since that time. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 78-79). Mother completed a parenting class at PAN. (N.T.
7/21/16, pg. 30). However, Mother did not complete the mental health services or anger
management at ARC, and was unsuccessfully discharged. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 25). Mother did not
appear for the termination trial, though she had signed a subpoena at the previous hearing on May .
31, 2016. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 6). The Children have been in care since October 14, 2014. During
that time, Mother has failed to take affirmative steps to successfully complete her objectives and
comply with court orders to place herself in a position to parent the Children. Mother's conduct
shows that Mother would be unable to remedy the causes of her incapacity in order to provide the
Children with essential parental care, control or subsistence necessary for their physical and mental
well-being. The Children need permanency, which Mother cannot provide. Termination under
this section was also proper.
Father's SCP objectives were to complete anger management class, visit with Child 2, secure
appropriate housing, comply with CEU drug screens, dual diagnosis and randoms, parenting, and
provide documentation about his medical condition and substance abuse. Father claims he was
never involved with drugs. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 57, 68), (DRS Exhibits 7, 9, 10, 14). Father has
refused to attend CEU for dual diagnosis assessment, as ordered by the court. On December 14,
2015, Father tested positive for amphetamines as indicated in DHS's Pe ition for Involuntary
Termination. Father claims he has completed anger management classes, including substance
abuse, twice while imprisoned. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 90-91). The CUA case manager has not been
abletoverifythatFathertooktheseclasses. (N.T. 7/21/16,pgs. 55-56, 100-101, 103). Father had
been unsuccessfully discharged from ARC anger management classes for non-attendance prior to
his imprisonment. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 57). Father did not visit with Child 2 while imprisoned. He
did not contact CUA to inquire about visits. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 55-56). Father chose not to place
Page 9 of 16
CUA's contact number on his prison call list. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 98). Instead, he had telephone
contact with Child 2 during Mother's supervised visits, without the knowledge of the agency which
was court-ordered to supervise his visits. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 98-99). Father claims that he has
already secured appropriate housing for his release, which he testified would occur on September
8, 2016. Father's testimony is not credible in two respects. First, Father mentioned a wide variety
of criminal charges against him, some of which have not even reached sentencing. (N.T. 7/21/16,
pgs. 92-93, 104). Second, Father stated that he intended to reunify with Child 2 in the housing
from which he had been evicted in November 2015. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 78-79). He then testified
that he had inherited an appropriate house from his mother, who had passed away. (N.T. 7/21/16,
pg. 97). Father, at this time, does not have stable housing for reunification, and is still in jail at the
Philadelphia Detention Center. Father testified that he still had cancer, but was waiting to see the
outcome of the termination trial before seeking treatment. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 107). He never
produced any documents to show his diagnosis, despite a number of court orders to do so. (N.T.
7/21/16, pgs. 64-65, 76). Child 2 has been in care since October 14, 2014. During that time, Father
has failed to take affirmative steps to successfully complete his objectives to place himself in a
position to parent Child 2. Father's conduct shows that Father would be unable to remedy the
causes of his incapacity in order to provide Child 2 with essential parental care, control or
subsistence necessary for her physical and mental well-being.' Child 2 needs permanency, which
Father cannot provide. Termination under this section was also proper.
The trial court also terminated Mother's and Father's parental rights under 23 Pa.C.S.A.
§2511( a)(8), which permits termination when:
The child has been removed from the care of the parent by the court or under a voluntary
agreement with an agency, 12 months or more have elapsed from the date of removal or
placement, the conditions which led to the removal or placement of the child continue to
exist and termination of parental rights would best serve the needs and welfare of the child.
This section does not require the court to evaluate a parent's willingness or ability to remedy the
conditions which initially caused placement or the availability or efficacy of DHS services offered
to the parent, only the present state of the conditions. In re: Adoption o(KJ. 938 A.2d 1128, 1133
(Pa. Super. 2009). The party seeking termination must also prove by clear and convincing
evidence that the termination is in the best interest of the child. The best interest of the child is
determined after consideration of the needs and welfare of the child such as love, comfort, security
Page 10 of 16
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and stability. In re Bowman, A.2d 217 (Pa. Super. 1994). See also In re Adoption ofTTB., 835
A.2d 387, 397 (Pa. Super. 2003).
The Children in this case have been in DHS care since October 14, 2014. The Children were
removed because Mother was unable to parent them, and was living in a house without working
utilities. Mother's SCP objectives have remained the same since the start of this case. (N.T.
7/21/16, pgs. 15-1,6), (DHS Exhibits 7, 9, 10, 14). During the time the Children were in care,
Mother has only completed parenting classes. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 30). Mother's chosen drug and
alcohol treatment facility may not even exist or provide appropriate treatment. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg.
29). Throughout the life of this case, Mother has tested positive for amphetamines and opiates,
including providing diluted urine drug screens, as indicated in DHS's Petition for Involuntary
Termination. Mother is currently an inpatient at Kirkbride in Philadelphia, a dual diagnosis
program. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 16, 22). Mother has never had appropriate housing, and was evicted
from housing in November 2015. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 78-79). Mother was unsuccessfully
discharged from mental health treatment and anger management at ARC and did not re-engage
with mental health services until July 6, 2016. Mother has not successfully completed anger
management. On July 6, 2016, Mother voluntarily admitted herself to Friends Hospital on a 201.
(N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 14, 25). Prior to her hospitalization, Mother's visits were not productive. She
brought the Children food which made them vomit or have diarrhea. She inappropriately criticized
their dancing. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 17-18, 24). Following her hospitalization Mother has not
contacted CUA to clarify whether she will be attending visits. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 16-17). Mother
had not seen the Children in over a month. The conditions that led to removal of the Children still
exist, and Mother is not able to parent them safely at present. The Children are placed with foster
parents, and look to these foster parents for all their needs. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 18, 79). The
Children call their foster mother "Mommy" and look forward to their future life permanently
placed with the foster parents. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 26, 75). The Children separate easily from
Mother at the end of visits, and it would be in their best interest to remain with the foster parents,
and to terminate Mother's parental rights. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 17, 36, 75). Mother is not ready,
willing or able as of today to parent the Children full-time. The conditions which led to the
removal of the Children continue to exist, and termination of parental rights would be in the best
I
,/
Page 11 of 16
I
interest of the Children. The record contains clear and convincing evidence that the trial court did
not abuse its discretion and termination under this section was also proper. I
Child 2 has been in DHS care since October 14, 2014. She was removed from Father's care
because Father was unable to parent her, and was living in a house without working utilities.
Father's SCP objectives were to take anger management courses, visit with Child 2 and secure
appropriate housing for his release from prison. Father was also court-ordered to provide CUA
with proof of his cancer diagnosis. Father failed to successfully complete ARC anger management
or parenting classes, and was discharged for non-attendance. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 57). Father cannot
actually demonstrate that he took anger management or substance abuse classes while imprisoned.
(N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 55-56, 100-101, 103). Father has refused to attend CEU for dual diagnosis
I
assessment, as ordered by the court. On December 14, 2015, Father tested positive for
amphetamines as indicated in DHS's Petition for Involuntary Termination. Father's only contact
with Child 2 while imprisoned was unsupervised telephone contact during Mother's visits. (N.T.
7/21/16, pgs. 98-99). He never sought the supervised visitation which the court had ordered. (N.T.
7/21/16, pgs. 55-56). Father chose not to communicate with the CUA worker. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg.
98). Father implausibly claims that he still rents the house from which he was evicted in November
2015. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 78-79). He testified that he would prefer to reunify with Child 2 there,
even though he also inherited an appropriate house from his mother. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 97). Father
has no stable housing and he is still in jail for the foreseeable future. Father testified that he still
had cancer, but was waiting to see the outcome of the termination trial before seeking treatment.
(N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 107). He never produced any documents to show his diagnosis, despite a
number of court orders to do so. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 64-65, 76). Father will not be released from
prison until September 8, 2016, according t~ his own testimony. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 104). This
date is not credible given the number of criminal charges against Father, many of which have not
reached sentencing. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 92-93). The conditions that led to removal of Child 2 still
exist, and Father is not able to parent her safely at present. Child 2 is placed with foster parents,
and looks to these foster parents for all her needs. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 18, 79). Child 2 calls the
foster mother "Mommy" and looks forward to a future life permanently placed with the foster
parents. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 26, 75). Child 2 does not want to visit with Father, and refuses to
speak with him on the phone. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 61, 65). It would be in her best interest to
Page 12 of 16
remain with the foster parents, and to terminate Father's parental rights. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 75).
Father is not ready, willing or able as of today to parent Child 2 full-time. The conditions which
led to the removal of Child 2 continue to exist and termination of parental rights is in the best
interest and welfare of Child 2. The testimony of DRS witnesses was credible as to Mother and
Father. The record contains clear and convincing evidence that the trial court did not abuse its
discretion and termination under this section was also proper.
After a finding of any grounds for termination under Section (a), the court must, under 23
Pa.C.S.A. §2511(b), also consider what - if any - bond exists between parent and child. In re
Involuntary Termination of C. WS.M and KA.L.M, 839 A.2d 410, 415 (Pa. Super. 2003). · The
trial court must examine the status of the bond to determine whether its termination "would destroy
an existing, necessary and beneficial relationship". In re Adoption of TB.B. 835 A.2d 387, 397
(Pa. Super. 2003). In assessing the parental bond, the trial court is permitted to rely upon the
observations and evaluations of social workers. In re KZS.. 946 A.2d 753, 762~763 (Pa. Super.
2008). In cases where there is no evidence of any bond between the parent and child, it is
reasonable to infer that no bond exists. The extent of any bond analysis depends on the
circumstances of the particular case. In re KZS. at 762-763. However under 23 Pa.C.S.A.
§2511 (b), the rights of a parent shall not be terminated solely on the basis of environmental factors
such as inadequate housing, furnishings, income, clothing and medical, if found to be beyond the
control of the parent.
Prior to her hospitalization, Mother visited the Children regularly, but the visits were unproductive.
She brought the Children inappropriate, unhealthy food which caused them to become ill. (N.T.
7/21/16, pgs. 17, 24). Mother criticized the way the Children danced. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 18).
When visits were over, the Children separated easily, eager to return to their foster parents. (N.T.
7/21/16, pgs. 17). Mother has not visited with the Children or called regarding visits since her
hospitalization on July 6, 2016. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 14, 16-17). The CUA case manager testified
that there would be no irreparable harm if Mother's parental rights were terminated. (N. T. 7 /21/16,
pgs. 18-19, 75). The Children are placed in a stable foster home. Though they have only been
with the foster parents since May 25, 2016, they already refer to the foster mother as "Mommy"
and look forward to a permanent life together. Foster parents provide for all their needs, including
daycare and camp, paid out of pocket by the foster parents. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 20, 24, 26). The
Page 13 of 16
foster parents care for all the Children's needs, and the Children look to them for comfort and
emotional support. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 26, 75, 79). There is no parent-child bond between the
Children and Mother. It would be in the Children's best interest to terminate Mother's parental
rights. Consequently, the court did not abuse its discretion when it found that it was clearly and
convincingly established that there was no positive parental bond, and that termination of Mother's
parental rights would not destroy an existing beneficial relationship)
Father has not visited Child 2 since he was incarcerated in December 2015. He has not inquired
about setting up visits. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 55-56). His only contact with Child 2 is by phone
during Mother's visits, unknown to the supervising CUA. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 98-99). Child 2
does not want to visit with Father, and does not want to speak with him on the phone. (N.T.
7/21/16, pgs. 61, 65). There would be no irreparable harm if Father's parental rights were
terminated. In fact, termination would be in Child 2's best interest. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 60-61).
Child 2 is placed with her sibling Child 1 in a loving foster home with caregivers who provide for
all her needs. Child 2 considers the foster mother her "Mommy" and looks forward to a permanent
future with the foster parents. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 20, 24, 26, 75, 79). There is no parent-child
bond between Child 2 and Father. Consequently, the court did not abuse its discretion when it
found that it was clearly and convincingly established that there was no positive parental bond,
and that termination of Father's parental rights would not destroy an existing beneficial
relationship.
Mother and Father also allege that the court erred in changing the Children's permanency goal
from reunification to adoption. In a change of goal proceeding, the child's best interest must be
the focus of the trial court's determination. The child's safety and health are paramount
considerations. In re A.H, 763 A.2d 873 (Pa. Super. 2000). Pennsylvania's Juvenile Act
recognizes family preservation as one of its primary purposes. In the Interest OfR.P. a Minor,
957 A.2d 1205 (Pa. Super. 2008). As a result, welfare agencies must make efforts to reunify the
biological parents with their child. Nonetheless, if those efforts fail, the agency must redirect its·
efforts toward placing the child in an adoptive home. Agencies are not required to provide services
indefinitely when a parent is unwilling or unable to apply the instructions received. In re R . T, 778
Page 14 of 16
A.2d 670 (Pa. Super. 2001). The trial court should consider the-best interest of the child as it exists
presently, rather than the facts at the time of the original petition.
Mother has not successfully completed all her SCP objectives. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 16-17, 24, 25,
29, 78-79). At the time of the trial, Mother was hospitalized for mental health issues and substance
abuse she had neglected to address earlier. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 14). Mother ignored all court orders
to attend programs that would enable her to reunify with the Children. The Children are not bonded
with Mother, separating easily from her at the end of visits. (N.T. 7/21/16, pg. 17). Mother is not
ready, willing or able to parent the Children at this time. DHS and CUA made reasonable efforts
to provide Mother with services. It would be in the best interest of the Children to change their
permanency goal to adoption. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 18-19, 36, 75). The Children are placed with
foster parents in a safe and stable home. They look forward to a permanent future with foster
parents who care for all their needs. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 20, 24, 26, 75, 79). The Children need
safety and permanency for their health and welfare.Because these facts were clearly and
convincingly established by the testimony ofDHS's witnesses, the court's change of permanency
goal from reunification to adoption was proper.
Father has not successfully completed his SCP objectives. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 54-56, 57, 64-65,
67, 68). At the time of the trial Father was incarcerated at the Philadelphia Detention Center.
Before his re-incarceration, Father was on probation, which he violated when he was charged with
additional crimes, whereby he is awaiting sentencing. Father's testimony that he would be released
on September 8, 2016, was not credible given the number and nature of these charges. (N.T.
7/21/16, pgs. 92-93, 95, 104). Child 2 does not wish to visit or speak to Father. (N.T. 7/21/16,
pgs. 61, 65). Father has not visited with Child 2 since December 2015, and has not explored visits
with CUA. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 55-56). Changing Child 2's permanency goal to adoption would
be in her best interest. (N.T. 7/21/16, pgs. 60-61). Child 2 is placed with her sibling Child 1 in a
loving foster home with caregivers who provide for all her needs. Child 2 considers the foster
mother her "Mommy" and looks forward to a permanent future with the foster parents. (N.T.
7/21/16, pgs. 20, 24, 26, 75, 79). Father is not ready, willing or able to parent Child 2 at this time.
Child 2 needs safety and permanency for her health and welfare. Because these facts were clearly
and convincingly established by the testimony of DHS's witnesses, the court's change of
permanency goal from reunification to adoption was proper.
Page 15 of 16
Conclusion:
For the aforementioned reasons, the court found that DHS met its statutory burden by clear and
convincing evidence regarding termination of Mother's and Father's parental rights pursuant to 23
Pa.C.S.A. §251 l(a)(l), (2), (8) and (b) since it would best serve the Children's emotional needs
and welfare. Changing the Children's permanency goal to adoption was in their best interest. The
trial court's termination of Mother's and Father's parental rights and change of permanency goal
to adoption was proper and should be affirmed.
By the court, ~-- .:
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Joseph'Fernandes
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Page 16 of 16
IN THE COURT OF COMlV[ON PLEAS
FOR THE COUNTY OF PHILADELPHIA
FAMILY COURT DIVISION
. \
In the Interest ofR.C.S.III, a Minor CP-51-DP-0002410-2014
CP-51-AP-0000623-2016
In the Interest of A.J.D., a Minor CP-51-DP-0002411-2014
CP-51-AP-0000422-2016
FID: 51-FN-002210-2014
APPEAL OF: S.C., Mother 2684/2685 EDA 2016
APPEAL OF: D.D., Father 2781 EDA 2016
PROOF OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that this court is serving, today, September 29, 2016, the foregoing; Opinion, by regular
mail, upon the following persons:
Jeri Behrman, Esq. Scott Gessner, Esq.
City of Philadelphia Law Dept. 100 S. Broad Street, Suite 1419
1515 Arch Street, 16th Floor Phila., PA 19110
Philadelphia, PA 19102 Counsel for Father
Counsel for D.H.S.
Christina Magnus, Esq.
1441 Sansom Street Carla Beggin, Esq.
Phila., PA 12102 1800 JFK Blvd. Suite 300
· Child Advocate Philadelphia PA 19103
Counsel for Mother
~~~-->~
, .' I
By: ~;..--------- ~-,
Turner N. Falk
Law Clerk to the Hon. Joseph L. Fernandes
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, Family Division
1501 Arch St, Room 1431
Philadelphia, Pa. 19102 T: (215) 686-2660