In re W.C.T., 280 N.C. App. 17 (2021)
Held:
Affirmed
- Facts: This case involves 3 children, the youngest whom suffered second and third degree burns when he was 3 months old and was being watched by his paternal grandmother, with whom the parents and children lived. The infant’s injuries were not witnessed but various inconsistent and implausible explanations were provided. DSS became involved and ultimately filed a petition alleging the infant was abused, neglected, and dependent and his 2 siblings were neglected and dependent. After hearing, the juveniles were adjudicated as alleged. At initial disposition, the children were placed in DSS custody. Both parents appeal. Mother challenges disposition as well as adjudication.
- Neither mother nor her attorney raised her constitutional rights to parent at the dispositional hearing despite having an opportunity to do so as mother was on notice that guardianship had been recommended. Mother waived her right to raise this issue on appeal.
Category:
Abuse, Neglect, DependencyStage:
Disposition (All Stages Post-Adjudication)Topic:
Parent’s Rights