In the Int. of: R.M.R., Appeal of: M.R. ( 2020 )

J-S07017-20
NON-PRECEDENTIAL DECISION - SEE SUPERIOR COURT I.O.P. 65.37
IN THE INTEREST OF: R.M.R., A : IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF
MINOR : PENNSYLVANIA
:
:
:
:
APPEAL OF: M.R., FATHER : No. 3042 EDA 2019
Appeal from the Order Entered October 2, 2019
In the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County
Juvenile Division at No(s): CP-51-AP-0000338-2019
IN THE INTEREST OF: N.I.R., A : IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF
MINOR : PENNSYLVANIA
:
:
:
:
APPEAL OF: M.R., FATHER : No. 3043 EDA 2019
Appeal from the Order Entered October 2, 2019
In the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County
Juvenile Division at No(s): CP-51-AP-0000339-2019
BEFORE: NICHOLS, J., KING, J., and STRASSBURGER, J.*
MEMORANDUM BY KING, J.: FILED MARCH 05, 2020
Appellant, M.R. (“Father”), appeals from the orders entered in the
Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas, which granted the petitions of
the Philadelphia Department of Human Services (“DHS”) for involuntary
termination of Father’s parental rights to his minor children, R.M.R. and N.I.R.
(“Children”). We affirm.
In its opinion, the trial court fully and correctly set forth the relevant
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* Retired Senior Judge assigned to the Superior Court.
J-S07017-20
facts and procedural history of this case. Therefore, we have no reason to
restate them. Procedurally, we add that this Court consolidated Father’s
appeals sua sponte on November 18, 2019.
Father raises one issue for our review:
DID THE TRIAL COURT ABUSE ITS DISCRETION BY
INVOLUNTARILY TERMINATING FATHER’S PARENTAL
RIGHTS TO [CHILDREN]?
(Father’s Brief at 6).
Appellate review of termination of parental rights cases implicates the
following principles:
In cases involving termination of parental rights: “our
standard of review is limited to determining whether the
order of the trial court is supported by competent evidence,
and whether the trial court gave adequate consideration to
the effect of such a decree on the welfare of the child.”
In re Z.P., 994 A.2d 1108, 1115 (Pa.Super. 2010) (quoting In re I.J., 972
A.2d 5, 8 (Pa.Super. 2009)).
Absent an abuse of discretion, an error of law, or
insufficient evidentiary support for the trial court’s
decision, the decree must stand. … We must employ
a broad, comprehensive review of the record in order
to determine whether the trial court’s decision is
supported by competent evidence.
In re B.L.W., 843 A.2d 380, 383 (Pa.Super. 2004) (en
banc), appeal denied, 581 Pa. 668, 863 A.2d 1141 (2004)
(internal citations omitted).
Furthermore, we note that the trial court, as the finder
of fact, is the sole determiner of the credibility of
witnesses and all conflicts in testimony are to be
resolved by the finder of fact. The burden of proof is
on the party seeking termination to establish by clear
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J-S07017-20
and convincing evidence the existence of grounds for
doing so.
In re Adoption of A.C.H., 803 A.2d 224, 228 (Pa.Super.
2002) (internal citations and quotation marks omitted). The
standard of clear and convincing evidence means testimony
that is so clear, direct, weighty, and convincing as to enable
the trier of fact to come to a clear conviction, without
hesitation, of the truth of the precise facts in issue. In re
J.D.W.M., 810 A.2d 688, 690 (Pa.Super. 2002). We may
uphold a termination decision if any proper basis exists for
the result reached. In re C.S., 761 A.2d 1197, 1201
(Pa.Super. 2000) (en banc). If the court’s findings are
supported by competent evidence, we must affirm the
court’s decision, even if the record could support an opposite
result. In re R.L.T.M., 860 A.2d 190, 191-92 (Pa.Super.
2004).
In re Z.P., supra at 1115-16 (quoting In re Adoption of K.J., 936 A.2d
1128, 1131-32 (Pa.Super. 2007), appeal denied, 597 Pa. 718, 951 A.2d 1165(2008)).
After a thorough review of the record, the briefs of the parties, the
applicable law, and the well-reasoned opinion of the Honorable Joseph L.
Fernandes, we conclude Father’s issue merits no relief. The trial court opinion
comprehensively discusses and properly disposes of the question presented.
(See Trial Court Opinion, filed November 20, 2019, at 5-16) (finding: court
terminated Father’s parental rights under 23 Pa.C.S.A. § 2511(a)(1), (2), (5),
(8) and (b); at time of termination hearing, Children had been in DHS care for
20 months, nearly their entire lives; Father either failed or refused to
successfully complete his objectives and could not place himself in position to
parent in six month period prior to filing of termination petitions; Father was
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J-S07017-20
noncompliant with dual-diagnosis, drug screen, and domestic violence
prevention objectives; although Father’s visits with Children were appropriate,
Father’s attendance at visits was inconsistent; Children’s needs are met by
foster parents; Children are well-bonded with foster parents, and they look to
foster parents for support and comfort; Children do not share parent/child
bond with Father). The record supports the court’s decision; therefore, we
see no reason to disturb it. See In re Z.P., supra. Accordingly, we affirm
based on the trial court’s opinion.
Orders affirmed.
Judgment Entered.
Joseph D. Seletyn, Esq.
Prothonotary
Date: 3/5/20
-4-
Circulated 02/11/2020 03:26 PM
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
/;,11·,11 J. 25FOR THE COUNTY OF PHILADELPHIA o I.'
FAMILY COURT DIVISION ,., ., ....•..,.,
P I'. 0 t'�il.' i r';l ••
1
In the Interest of R.M.R., a Minor CP-5l-AP-0000338-2019
a/kfa R.C., a Minor
In the Interest of N.I.R., a Minor CP-5l-AP-0000339-2019
a/k/a N.C., a Minor
FID: 5l-FN-000106-2014
APPEAL OF: M.R., Father 3042 EDA 2019
3043 EDA 2019
OPINION1
Fernandes, J.:
Appellant M.R. ("Father") appeals from the order entered on October 2, 2019, granting the
petitions filed by the Philadelphia Department of Human Services ("DHS"), to involuntarily
terminate Father's parental rights to R.M.R. ("Child 1") and N.I.R. ("Child 2") pursuant to the
Adoption Act, 23 Pa.CS.A. §251 l(a)(l), (2), (5), (8) and (b). Lue B. Frierson, Esquire, counsel
for Father ("Father's Counsel"), filed a timely Notice of Appeal ("Notice") with a Statement of
Matters Complained of on Appeal pursuant to Rule 192S(b) ("Statement") on October 29, 2019.
Factual and Procedural Background·:
This family has been known to DHS since 2011, pursuant to a substantiated General Protective
Services ("GPS") report regarding the poor hygiene and behavioral issues of Children's siblings.2
On February 21, 2018, DHS received a GPS report alleging that Children were born at
Pennsylvania Hospital ("Hospital") at 36 weeks gestation; Mother3 tested positive for
benzodiazepines during psychiatric hospitalizations in January and February of 2018; Father
informed hospital staff that he was not the father of Children; Father had not visited Children at
the hospital; Children were hospitalized in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit due to their early
delivery; Children would be ready for discharge on February 22, 2018; Mother and Father had a
I The trial court requested the Notes of Testimony for October 2, 2019, on October 30, 2019. The trial court received
the Notes of Testimony on November 12, 2019.
2 Children have two siblings that are not involved in this appeal.
3 The trial court also involuntarily terminated Mother's parental rights on October 2, 2019. Mother is not involved in
this appeal.
Page 1 of 17
history of domestic violence; and Children's siblings were in the custody of OHS. This report was
determined to be valid. On February 22, 2018, OHS visited Hospital. OHS spoke with hospital
staff, who confirmed the allegations of the report. Hospital staff indicated that Father had visited
Hospital and informed staff that he did not believe that he was the biological father of Children
and that he wanted a paternity test conducted. The hospital staff recommended to Father that he
should buy a paternity test at the drug store, as Hospital did not provide those services. Hospital
staff further indicated that Children were not ready to be discharged. When DHS spoke with
Mother, Mother indicated that Father was the biological father of Children. On February 23, 2018,
OHS learned that Children were ready to be discharged and OHS subsequently obtained an Order
of Protective Custody ('"OPC"). On that same date, DHS placed Children in a foster home, where
they currently remain ..
On February 26, 2018, a shelter care hearing was held for Children.4 Father was present for this
hearing. The trial court lifted the OPC and ordered the temporary commitment to DHS to stand.
The trial court further ordered that Father be referred for genetic testing, that OHS ensure that
Children were to be transported to complete the genetic testing, and that Father be permitted to
have supervised visits with Children.
On March 5, 2018, an adjudicatory hearing was held for Children. Father was not present for this
hearing. Children were adjudicated dependent based on present inability to provide proper parental
care and control. The trial court discharged the temporary commitment to OHS and fully
committed Children to the custody of DHS. Father was referred to a domestic violence class. The
trial court also ordered that Father is not to have visitation with Children until the genetic testing
is complete and if Father's paternity was confirmed, he was ordered to attend weekly supervised
visitation with Children.
On March 16, 2018, the DNA Diagnostics Center reported that Father is not excluded as the
biological father of Children, and that based on the testing results obtained from analyses of Father
and Children's DNA, the probably of paternity is 99.999995%.
4
The trial judge assigned to the shelter care hearing was The Honorable Jonathan Q. Irvine. Between March 5, 2018,
and June 4, 2018, the trial judge assigned to this matter was The Honorable Lyris Younge. From August 27, 2018 to
the present, this matter is assigned to the Honorable Joseph Fernandes.
Page 2 of 17
On June 4, 2018, a permanency review hearing was held for Children. Father did not attend this
hearing. The trial court found that Children's placement continued to be necessary and appropriate,
and ordered their commitment to DHS to stand. The trial court ordered Father to follow up with
Menergy for domestic violence and referred Father to the CEU for a drug screen and dual diagnosis
assessment. Father was ordered to appear at the next listing. On June 5, 2018, July 13, 2018,
August 10, 2018, and August 24, 2018, Father failed to attendWs scheduled visit with Children.
On August 27, 2018, a permanency review hearing was held for Children. Father was present for
this hearing. The trial court found that Children's placement continued to be necessary and
appropriate, and ordered that Children remain as placed. The trial court determined that Father
was minimally compliant with the permanency plan. Father was re-referred to the CEO for a
forthwith drug and alcohol screen, dual diagnosis assessment, monitoring, and three random drug
screens. Father was ordered to complete domestic violence counseling and parenting courses, and
was re-referred to the Achieving Reunification Center ("ARC") and Menergy for those appropriate
services. At Father's forthwith drug and alcohol screen, Father tested positive for marijuana. Father
scheduled a drug and alcohol assessment with the CEU for September 18, 2018. Father was a no
call/no show for his scheduled appointment. On October 5, 2018, Father failed to attend his
scheduled visit with Children. O� November 19, 2018, Father tested negative for all substances at
the CEU.
On January 7, 20195, a permanency review hearing was held for Children. Father was not present
for this hearing. The trial court found that Children's placement continued to be necessary and
appropriate, and ordered that Children remain as placed. The trial court determined that Father was
minimally compliant with the permanency plan. The trial court referred Father to the CEO for a
dual diagnosis assessment and three random drug screens, if he availed himself. On March 15,
2019, and March 29, 2019, Father failed to attend his scheduled visit with Children.
On February 26, 2019, Community Umbrella Agency ("CUA") revised the Single Case Plan
("SCP"). Father did not participate in the SCP meeting. Children's current goal was "return to
parent," with their alternate/concurrent goal of adoption. Father's parental objectives were to
5A permanency review hearing was originally scheduled for November 26, 2018. The Juvenile Court Hearing Officer
granted a continuance by request of the Child Advocate for the matter to be heard by the trial judge.
Page 3 of 17
comply with court orders; comply with the CEU dual diagnosis assessment and follow the CEU's
recommendations; complete three random drug screens; attend court-ordered visitation; participate
in domestic violence counseling; and participate in parenting education classes.
On April 3, 2019, a permanency review hearing was held for Children. Father did not attend this
hearing. The trial court determined that Father was minimally compliant with the permanency
plan. The trial court found that Children's placement continued to be necessary and appropriate,
and ordered that Children remain as placed. It was determined that Father attended only one visit
with Children since December 2018. Father was referred for employment assistance, parenting
education, domestic violence counseling, and all appropriate services. Father was also referred to
the CEU for a full drug and alcohol screen, dual diagnosis assessment, monitoring, and three
random drug screens, when he avails himself. Father was ordered to remain in contact with CUA.
Children have been in DHS care since February 23, 2018, since they were two-days-old. Father
has failed to consistently engage with his objectives throughout the life of the case and Father has
failed to demonstrate that he can safely and appropriately care for Children on consistent basis.
DHS filed petitions to involuntarily terminate Father's parental rights on May 2, 2019.
On June 26, 2019, a termination and goal change hearing was scheduled for Children. Father was
present for this hearing. The trial court granted a continuance to obtain a contested termination and
goal change time slot. It was determined that Father completed a parenting program through
Catholic Community Services on May 29, 2019. The trial court referred Father to the CEU for a
forthwith drug screen, dual diagnosis assessment, and three random drug screens. Father was
ordered to continue attending supervised visits with Children at the agency and Father must
provide confirmation 24 hours in advance. Father was also referred to Menergy for domestic
violence. CUA was ordered to complete a home assessment and clearances on Father's home.
Father's forthwith drug and alcohol screen was positive for marijuana. On August 6, 2019, Father
tested positive for marijuana and phencyclidince ("PCP") at the CEU. On September 17, 2019,
Father tested positive for marijuana and alcohol at the NET.
On October 2, 2019, the trial court held the termination trial for Children. Father was present for
this trial. After all testimony was given, the trial court found clear and convincing evidence to
Page 4 of 17
involuntarily terminate Father's parental rights under 23 Pa.C.S.A. §251 l(a)(l), (2), (5), (8), and
(b). On October 29, 2019, Father's Counsel filed this appeal on behalf of Father.
Discussion:
On appeal", Father complains of the following:
1. The trial court abused its discretion by involuntarily terminating Father's parental rights
pursuant to Children
2. Father's Counsel respectfully requests the right to supplement this Statement of Matters
Complained of on Appeal pending receipt of the Notes of Testimony.
Father's Counsel only filed a Notice for the October 2, 2019 trial court order that terminated
Father's parental rights. Father's Counsel did not file a Notice for the October 2, 2019 trial court
order changing Child's permanency goal from reunification to adoption. Additionally, an issue is
waived where it is not specifically presented in the Appellant's Pa.R.A.P. 1925(b) statement. In re
C.P., 901 A.2d 516, 522 (Pa. Super. 2006); See In re JE.D., 879 A.2d 288, 293, fn. 7 (Pa. Super.
2005). Father did not appeal the change of the permanency goal from reunification to adoption in
his Statement, so he has waived that issue on appeal. See Krebs v. United Refining Co., 893 A.2d
776, 797 (Pa. Super. 2006). Although the termination trial for Children on October 2, 2019,
addressed matters regarding Children's goal change, this Opinion will only address the termination
of Father's parental rights to Children. Father's Counsel did not submit a supplement to the
Statement, so this Opinion will only address the matters listed on the Statement filed with the
Notice on October 29, 2019. For the purpose of this opinion, Father's issues 1 through 2 will be
consolidated to read: Did the trial court err or abuse its discretion when it terminated Father's
parental rights pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S.A. §2511 (a)(l ), (2), (5), (8), and (b )?
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
6
Father's Counsel filed two Notices and Statements for Children, one for each Child, but all Statements list the same
errors.
Page 5 of 17
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.
In proceedings 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
time 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). A child needs love, protection,
guidance, and support. Both physical and emotional needs cannot be met by a merely passive
interest in the development of the child. The parental obligation is a positive duty, which requires
affirmative performance. It requires continuing interest in the child and a genuine effort to maintain
communication and association with the child. At the same time, the trial court shall not consider
any efforts by the parent to remedy the conditions which brought the child into care which are first
initiated subsequent to the giving notice of the filing of the termination petition. Id. 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.
The petitions for involuntary termination were filed for Children on May 2, 2019. (N.T. 10/02/19,
pg. 7). Father's SCP objectives were dual diagnosis, random drug screens, domestic violence,
parenting, and visitation with Children. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 20-21, 26). Father is aware of his
objectives. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 24; See DHS Exhibit 5). For the six months prior to the filing of
the petitions, Father did not complete his dual diagnosis objective. Father did not complete his dual
diagnosis assessment at the CEU until more than two months after the petitions were filed. Father
did not complete the intake for an intensive outpatient program ("IOP") until more three months
after the petitions were filed. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 22, 24; See DHS Exhibit 4). On April 3, 2019,
Father tested positive for marijuana at a forthwith drug screen. (DHS Exhibit 3). Father has failed
to consistently attend the random drug screens, although he was contacted regularly by CUA. (N.T.
10/02/19, pg. 24). Prior to the filing of the petitions, Father was non-compliant with his dual
Page 6 of 17
diagnosis and random drug screen objectives. (N.T. l 0/02/19, pg. 3 7). Father did not complete his
domestic violence objective. Father did not complete the intake at Menergy for domestic violence
until after the petitions were filed. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 25-26). Prior to the filing of the petitions,
Father was non-compliant with his domestic violence objective. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 36). Father
did not complete a parenting class until after the petitions were filed. (N. T. 10/02/ 19, pg. 26). On
April 3, 2019, the trial court modified Father's supervised weekly visits to bi-weekly visits.
Father's visits with Children were modified due to Father's inconsistent attendance. Between
December 2018 and March 2019, Father only visited Children once. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 27; See
DHS Exhibit 5). Father's visits never graduated beyond supervised at the agency. (N.T. 10/02/19,
pgs. 27-28). Although Father's visits with Children have been appropriate, CUA was never able
to consistently monitor the visits due to Father's inconsistent attendance, so CUA was unable to
increase the visitation beyond supervised at the agency. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 27-28, 51, 54). Prior
to the filing of the petitions, Father was non-compliant with visits. (N.T. l 0/02/19, pg. 37). For the
six months prior to the filing of the petitions, Father refused to perform his parental duties by
failing to successfully engage with his objectives and Father has not taken positive steps to put
himself in a position to be reunified with Children. Father has the affirmative duty to place himself
in a position to parent Children. Father either failed or refused to successfully complete his
objectives and place himself in a position to parent in the six months prior to the filing of the
petitions. As a result, the trial court did not err or abuse its discretion by finding clear and
convincing evidence that Father, by his conduct, had refused and failed to perform parental duties
and has evidenced a settled purpose to relinquish his parental claim to Children, so termination
under 23 Pa.C.S.A. §251 l(a)(l) was proper.
The trial court also terminated Father's parental rights under 23 Pa.C.S.A. §251 l(a)(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 o(C.A. W.. 683 A.2d 911, 914 (Pa. Super. 1996). §251 l(a)(2) focuses on the child's
Page 7 of 17
present and future need for essential parental care, control, or subsistence necessary for their
physical or mental well-being. In re Adoption o(MJ.H, 501 A.2d 648, 654 (Pa. Super. 1985).
Even if a parent demonstrates love for their child, if a parent's incapacity cannot be remedied, their
parental rights may be terminated. Id.Since June 4, 2018, Father's SCP objectives were dual diagnosis, random drug screens, domestic
violence, parenting, and visitation with Children. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 20-21, 26; See DHS Exhibit
5). Since Father availed himself, these objectives remained substantially the same throughout the
life of the case. Father is aware of his objectives. (N.T. l 0/02/19, pg. 24; See DHS Exhibit 5).
Father has not completed his dual diagnosis objective. Father did not complete his dual diagnosis
assessment until August 6, 2019. The trial court first ordered Father to complete a dual diagnosis
assessment at the permanency review hearing on June 4, 2018. In July 2019, Father was a no
call/no show for two scheduled appointments for an assessment at the CEU. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg.
22; See DHS Exhibit 4-5). Father did not complete the intake for an IOP until September 13, 2019,
less than a month before the termination trial. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 22, 24; See DHS Exhibit 4).
Since enrolling in the IOP, Father has missed four group sessions. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 22). Father
has repeatedly tested positive for drugs and alcohol. On April 3, 2019, Father tested positive for
marijuana at a forthwith drug screen at the CEU. (DHS Exhibit 3). On June 29, 2019, Father tested
positive for marijuana at a forthwith drug screen at the CEU. On August 6, 2019, Father tested
positive for marijuana and PCP at the CEU. (N .T. 10/02/19, pg. 22; OHS Exhibit 4). On September
17, 2019, Father tested positive for alcohol and marijuana at the drug screen that he provided at
his IOP. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 22-23; DHS Exhibit 4). Father has failed to consistently attend the
random drug screens, although he was contacted regularly by CUA. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 24). Prior
to the last permanency review hearing on June 26, 2019, Father was non-compliant with his dual
diagnosis and random drug screen objectives. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 37). Father has not completed
his domestic violence objective. Father did not complete the intake at Menergy for domestic
violence until after the permanency review hearing on June 26, 2019. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 25-26).
Father was first referred to Menergy for domestic violence at the adjudicatory hearing on March
5, 2018. (DHS Exhibit 5). Prior to the permanency review hearing on June 26, 2019, Father was
non-compliant with his domestic violence objective. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 36). Father did not
complete a parenting class until May 29, 2019. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 26). Father was first referred
Page 8 of 17
for parenting on August 27, 2018. (OHS Exhibit 5). On April 3, 2019, the trial court modified
Father's supervised weekly visits to bi-weekly visits. Father's visits with Children were modified
due to Father's inconsistent attendance. Between December 2018 and March 2019, Father only
visited Children once. Father's visits with Children did not become more consistent until after the
permanency review hearing on June 26, 2019. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 27; See OHS Exhibit 5). Father
claimed that he was missing visits because CUA was ignoring his request to reschedule the visits
with Children. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 63). Father's visits never graduated beyond supervised at the
agency. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 27-28). Although Father's visits with Children have been appropriate,
CUA was never able to consistently monitor the visits due to Father's inconsistent attendance, so
CUA was unable to increase the visitation beyond supervised at the agency. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs.
27-28, 51, 54). Prior to the permanency review hearing on June 26, 2019, Father was non-
compliant with visits. (N.T. 10/02119, pg. 37). Children need permanency, which Father cannot
provide. The conditions and causes of Father's incapacity cannot or will not be remedied by Father.
Children have been adjudicated dependent since March 5, 2018, and Children have been in OHS
care since February 23, 2018, twenty months, and nearly their entire lives, at the time of the
termination trial on October 2, 2019. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 10-11). Father has attended some of the
court hearings in this matter and is aware of his SCP objectives. Father had ample opportunity to
put himself in a position to parent, but Father failed to do so. Father's repeated and continued
incapacity has not been mitigated. The OHS witnesses were credible. Father has demonstrated that
he is unwilling to remedy the causes of his incapacity to parent in order to provide Children with
essential parental care, control, or subsistence necessary for their physical and mental well-being.
Termination under 23 Pa.C.S.A. §2511 (a)(2) was also proper.
Father also appeals the trial court's termination of parental rights under 23 Pa.C.S.A. §251 l(a)(S),
which permits termination when a child was removed, by court or voluntary agreement, and placed
with an agency if, for at least six months, the conditions which led to the placement of the child
continue to exist, the parent cannot or will not remedy those conditions within a reasonable period
of time, the services reasonably available to the parent are not likely to remedy the conditions
leading to placement, and termination best serves the child's needs and welfare. OHS, as a child
and youth agency, cannot be required to extend services beyond the period of time deemed as
reasonable by the legislature or be subjected to herculean efforts. A child's life cannot be put on
Page 9 of 17 ·
hold in hope that the parent will summon the ability to handle the responsibilities of parenting. In
re J T.. 817 A.2d 505 (Pa. Super. 200?i). As a consequence, Pennsylvania's Superior Court has
recognized that a child's needs and welfare require agencies to work toward termination of parental
rights when a child has been placed in foster care beyond reasonable temporal limits and after
reasonable efforts for reunification have been made by the agency, which have been ineffective.
This process should be completed within eighteen months. In re N W., 85� A.2d 501 (Pa. Super.
2004).
Children have been in DHS care since February 23, 2018, twenty months, and nearly their entire
lives, at time of the termination trial on October 2, 2019. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs, 10-11 ). Father's
SCP objectives were dual diagnosis, random drug screens, domestic violence, parenting, and
visitation with Children. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 20-21, 26; See DHS Exhibit 5). Since Father availed
himself, these objectives remained substantially the same throughout the life of the case. Father is
aware of his objectives. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 24; See DHS Exhibit 5). Father has not completed his
dual diagnosis objective. Father· did not complete his dual diagnosis assessment until August 6,
2019. The trial court first referred Father for a dual diagnosis assessment at the permanency review
hearing on June 4, 2018. In July 2019, Father was a no call/no show for two scheduled
appointments for an assessment at the CEU. (N .T. 10/02/19, pg. 22; See DHS Exhibit 4-5). Father
did not complete the intake for an IOP until September 13, 2019, less than a month before the
termination trial. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 22, 24; See DRS Exhibit 4). Since enrolling in the IOP,
Father has missed four group sessions. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 22). Father has repeatedly tested
positive for drugs and alcohol. On April 3, 2019, Father tested positive for marijuana at a forthwith
drug screen at the CEU. (DHS Exhibit 3). On June 29, 2019, Father tested positive for marijuana
at a forthwith drug screen at the CEU. On August 6, 2019, Father tested positive for marijuana and
PCP at the CEU. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 22;.DHS Exhibit 4). On September 17, 2019, Father tested
positive for alcohol and marijuana at the drug screen that he provided at his IOP. (N.T. 10/02/19,
pgs. 22-23; DRS Exhibit 4). Father has failed to consistently attend the random drug screens,
although he was contacted regularly by CUA. (N. T. 10/02/19, pg. 24 ). Prior to the last permanency
review hearing on June 26, 2019, Father was non-compliant with his dual diagnosis and random
drug screen objectives. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 37). Father has not completed his domestic violence
objective. Father did not complete the intake at Menergy for domestic violence until after the
Page 10 of 17
permanency review hearing on June 26, 2019. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 25-26). Father was first referred
to Menergy for domestic violence at the adjudicatory hearing on March 5, 2018. (DHS Exhibit 5).
Prior to the permanency review hearing on June 26, 2019, Father was non-compliant with his
domestic violence objective. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 36). Father did not complete a parenting class
until May 29, 2019. (N.T. I 0/02/19, pg. 26). Father was first referred for parenting on August 27,
2018. (DRS Exhibit 5). On April 3, 2019, the trial court modified Father's supervised weekly visits
to bi-weekly visits. Father's visits with Children were modified due to Father's inconsistent
attendance. Between December 2018 and March 2019, Father only visited Children once. Father's
visits with Children did not become more consistent until after the permanency review hearing on
June 26, 2019. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 27; See OHS Exhibit 5). Father claimed that he was missing
visits because CUA was ignoring his request to reschedule the visits with Children. (N.T. 10/02/19,
pg. 63). Father's visits never graduated beyond supervised at the agency. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 27-
28). Although Father's visits with Children have been appropriate, CUA was never able to
consistently monitor the visits due to Father's inconsistent attendance, so CUA was unable to
increase the visitation beyond supervised at the agency. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 27-28, 51, 54). Prior
to the permanency review hearing on June 26, 2019, Father was non-compliant with visits. (N.T.
10/02/19, pg. 3 7). Children are currently placed together in a pre-adoptive foster home, where they
have remained for the life of the case. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 28, 38). Children are well-bonded with
the foster parents and appear as part of the family. Children are able to closely relate to the foster
mother. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 38). Children's every day needs are met by the foster parents and they
look to the foster parents for support and comfort. The foster parents attend all medical
appointments for Children. Father has never attended a medical appointment for Children. (N.T.
10/02/19, pgs. 39, 49). Children refer to the foster mother as "Mom-Mom." Children have shown
continuous growth in the current foster placement. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 40). As a result, the trial
court found that termination of Father's parental rights was in the best interest of Children for their
physical, intellectual, moral, and spiritual well-being. Father is unable to remedy the conditions
which led to Children's placement. Termination best serves Children's needs and welfare. Because
the trial court made these determinations on the basis of clear and convincing evidence, termination
under 23 Pa.C.S.A. §251 l(a)(S) was also proper.
The trial court also terminated Father's parental rights under 23 Pa.C.S.A. §251 l(a)(8), which
Page 11 of 17
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 OHS services offered
to the parent, only the present state of the conditions. In re: Adoption ofKJ. 93' A.2d 1128, 1133
(Pa. Super. 2001). 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, and
stability. In re Bowman,835 A.2d
387, 397 (Pa. Super. 2003).
Children have been in DHS care since February 23, 2018, twenty months, and nearly their entire
lives, at time of the termination trial on October 2, 2019. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 10-11). Father's
SCP objectives were dual diagnosis, random drug screens, domestic violence, parenting, and
visitation with Children. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 20-2 l, 26; See DHS Exhibit 5). Since Father availed
himself, these objectives remained substantially the same throughout the life of the case. Father is
aware of his objectives. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 24; See DHS Exhibit 5). Father has not completed his
dual diagnosis objective. Father did not complete his dual diagnosis assessment until August 6,
2019. The trial court first referred Father for a dual diagnosis assessment at the permanency review
hearing on June 4, 2018. In July 2019, Father was a no call/no show for two scheduled
appointments for an assessment at the CEU. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 22; See DHS Exhibit 4-5). Father
did not complete the intake for an !OP until September 13, 2019, less than a month before the
termination trial. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 22, 24; See DHS Exhibit 4). Since enrolling in the IOP,
Father has missed four group sessions. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 22). Father has repeatedly tested
positive for drugs and alcohol. On April 3, 2019, Father tested positive for marijuana at a forthwith
drug screen at the CEU. (OHS Exhibit 3). On June 29, 2019, Father tested positive for marijuana
at a forthwith drug screen at the CEU. On August 6, 2019, Father tested positive for marijuana and
PCP at the CEU. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 22; DHS Exhibit 4). On September 17, 2019, Father tested
positive for alcohol and marijuana at the drug screen that he provided at his IOP. (N.T. 10/02/19,
Page 12 of 17
pgs. 22-23; DHS Exhibit 4). Father has failed to consistently attend the random drug screens,
. although he was contacted regularly by CUA. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 24). Prior to the last permanency
review hearing on June 26, 2019, Father was non-compliant with his dual diagnosis and random
drug screen objectives. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 37). Father has not completed his domestic violence
objective. Father did not complete the intake at Menergy for domestic violence until after the
permanency review hearing on June 26, 2019. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 25-26). Father was first referred
to Menergy for domestic violence at the adjudicatory hearing on March 5, 2018. (DHS Exhibit 5).
Prior to the permanency review hearing on June 26, 2019, Father was non-compliant with his
domestic violence objective. (N .T. 10/02/19, pg. 36). Father did not complete a parenting class
until May 29, 2019. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 26). Father was first referred for parenting on August 27,
2018. (DHS Exhibit 5). On April 3, 2019, the trial court modified Father's supervised weekly visits
to bi-weekly visits. Father's visits with Children were modified due to Father's inconsistent
attendance. Between December 2018 and March 2019, Father only visited Children once. Father's
visits with Children did not become more consistent until after the permanency review hearing on
June 26, 2019. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 27; See DHS Exhibit 5). Father claimed that he was missing
visits because CUA was ignoring his request to reschedule the visits with Children. (N.T. 10/02/19,
pg. 63). Father's visits never graduated beyond supervised at the agency. (N.T. I 0/02/19, pgs. 27-
28). Although Father's visits with Children have been appropriate, CUA was never able to
consistently monitor the visits due to Father's inconsistent attendance, so CUA was unable to
increase the visitation beyond supervised at the agency. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 27-28, 51, 54). Prior
to the permanency review hearing on June 26, 2019, Father was non-compliant with visits. (N.T.
10/02/19, pg. 37). Children are currently placed together in a pre-adoptive foster home, where they
have remained for the life of the case. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 28, 38). Children are well-bonded with
the foster parents and appear as part of the family. Children are able to closely relate to the foster
mother. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 38). Children's every day needs are met by the foster parents and they
look to the foster parents for support and comfort. The foster parents attend all medical
appointments for Children. Father has never attended a medical appointment for Children. (N.T.
10/02/19, pgs. 39, 49). Children refer to the foster mother as "Mom-Mom." Children have shown
continuous growth in the current foster placement. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 40). As a result, the trial
court found that termination of Father's parental rights was in the best interest of Children for their
physical, intellectual, moral, and spiritual well-being. Father is unable to remedy the conditions
Page 13 of 17
that led to Children's placement. The conditions which led to the removal of Children continue to
exist and termination of Father's parental rights would best serve the needs and welfare of
Children. The testimony of DHS witnesses were credible. Since the record contains clear and
convincing evidence, the trial court did not abuse its discretion and termination under 23 Pa.C.S.A.
§2511 (a)(8) was also proper.
After a finding of any grounds for termination under Section (a), the court must, under 23
Pa.C.S.A. §251 l(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 T.B.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 KZ.S.. 946 A.2d 753, 762-763 (Pa. Super.
2008). The trial court must determine that the bond between a parent and a child cannot be in only
one direction. There must be a bilateral relationship that roots from a parent's willingness to learn
appropriate parenting skills and be able to provide stability to the child. In re KKR.-S., 958 A.2d
529, 534 (Pa. Super. 2008). Additionally, a bond is not just a positive relationship between a child
and a parent. Being a parent means assuming responsibility so that a real bond develops, not just
a casual relationship. Children have the ability to know, love, and sometimes have an enjoyable
time with a parent that have little to do with their upbringing. In re .I.LC., 837 A.2d 1247, 1249
(Pa. Super. 2003). 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. Id. However under 23 Pa.C.S.A. §251 l(b), the rights of a
parent shall not be terminated solely on the basis of environmental factors such as inadequate
housing, furnishings, income, or medical care, if found to be beyond the control of the parent. 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. Beyond the presence of a bond between a parent and child, the
trial court can equally emphasize the safety and needs of the child, and should consider the
intangible, such as the love, comfort, security, and stability that the child might have with their
foster parent. In re Adoption o{C.D.R., l l1A.3d 1212, 1219 (Pa. Super. 2015).
On April 3, 2019, the trial court modified Father's supervised weekly visits to bi-weekly visits.
Page 14 of 17
Father's visits with Children were modified due to Father's inconsistent attendance. Between
December 2018 and March 2019, Father only visited Children once. Father's visits with Children
did not become more consistent until after the permanency review hearing on June 26, 2019. (N.T.
10/02/19, pg. 27; See OHS Exhibit 5). Father claimed that he was missing visits because CUA was
ignoring his request to reschedule the visits with Children. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 63). Father's visits
never graduated beyond supervised at the agency. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 27-28). Although Father's
visits with Children have been appropriate, CUA was never able to consistently monitor the visits
due to Father's inconsistent attendance, so CUA was unable to increase the visitation beyond
supervised at the agency. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 27-28, 51, 54). Prior to the permanency review
hearing on June 26, 2019, Father was non-compliant with visits. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 37). Children
would not suffer any irreparable harm if Father's visits with Children stop. (N.T. 10/02119, pg.
53). Children are currently placed together in a pre-adoptive foster home, where they have
remained for the life of the case. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 28, 38). Children are well-bonded with the
foster parents and appear as part of the family. Children are able to closely relate to the foster
mother. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 38). Children's every day needs are met by the foster parents and they
look to the foster parents for support and comfort. The foster parents attend all medical
appointments for Children. Father has never attended a medical appointment for Children. (N.T.
10/02/19, pgs. 39, 49). Children refer to the foster mother as "Mom-Mom." Children have shown
continuous growth in the current foster placement. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 40). Children and the foster
parents share a parent/child bond. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 38-39, 49). Children do not share a
parent/child bond with Father. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 49, 52). Children do not view Father as a
parental figure in their lives. (N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 52-53). When Father was asked about the bond
he shares with Children, Father admitted that he is not "100% bonded" with them. (N.T. 10/02/19,
pg. 61). Children would not suffer any irreparable harm if Father's parental rights were terminated.
(N.T. 10/02/19, pgs. 28; 39-40, 53). At the time of the termination trial, Children were under two
years old. Due to Children's young age, Children are not competent enough to provide their wishes
regarding adoption or reunification. Due to Children's inability to verbalize their wishes, there was
no conflict in the Child Advocate representing Children's legal interest and best interest at the
termination trial. (N.T. 10/02/19, pg. 8). The DHS witnesses were credible. There was no error of
law or abuse of discretion by the trial court and, therefore, the trial court's termination of Father's
parental rights to Children under 23 Pa.C.S.A. §251 l(b) was proper.
Page 15 of 17
Conclusion:
For the aforementioned reasons, the court found that OHS met its statutory burden by clear and
convincing evidence regarding termination of Father's parental rights pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S.A.
§251 l(a)(l), (2), (5), (8) and (b), since it would best serve Children's emotional needs and welfare.
The trial court's termination of Father's parental rights was proper and should be affirmed.
By the court,
\�
Page 16 of 17
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
FOR THE COUNTY OF PHILADELPHIA
FAMILY COURT DIVISION
In the Interest ofR.M.R., A minor CP-5 l-AP-0000338-2019
In the Interest of N.I.R., A minor CP-51-AP-0000339-2019
FID: 51-FN-000106-2014
APPEAL OF: M.R., Father 3042 EDA 2019
3043 EDA 2019
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that this court is serving a copy of this duly executed Opinion upon all parties or
their counsel on November 20, 2019. The names and addresses of all persons served are as follows:
Amy Skiles, Esq. Elizabeth Flanagan, Esq.
City of Philadelphia Law Department Defender Association of Philadelphia
1515 Arch Street, 16th Floor 1441 Sansom Street, 9th Floor
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102
Attorney for D.H.S. Child Advocate
Lue B. Frierson, Esq. Jeffrey C. Bruch, Esq.
2333 St. Albans Place 1515 Market Street, Suite 1200
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19146 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102
Attorney for Father Attorney for Mother
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Ariel J. Bruce
Law Clerk to the Hon. Joseph L. Fernandes
First Judicial District of Pennsylvania
Family Division
1501 Arch St., Room 1431
Philadelphia, Pa. 19102
T: (215) 686-2660 I F: (215) 686-4224
Page 17 of 17