In re K.B., 378 N.C 601 (2021)
Held:
Affirmed
- Facts: In 2019, the juveniles were adjudicated neglected (for the 3rd time). In 2020, DSS filed a TPR motion, which was granted. Mother appeals, challenging the grounds. Father appeals the best interests determination. This summary focuses on father’s appeal.
- G.S. 7B-1110(a) includes the best interests factors the court considers at disposition when determining the juvenile’s best interests.
- The findings that the children’s likelihood of adoption was supported by social worker testimony and the GAL report. The findings also reflect that the court recognized the older sibling’s adoption was related to her younger sibling’s mental health treatment and the prospective adoptive parents’ ability to address those needs as there was interest in adopting the siblings as a “sibling group.”
- Although there was a strong bong between father and his children, that is just one factor the court considers, and the court has authority to give greater weight to other factors.
Category:
Termination of Parental RightsStage:
DispositionTopic:
Best Interests Findings