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Appeals panel hears challenge to DCF's reunification efforts in parental-rights appeal
Summary
In the impounded Department of Children and Families appeal, counsel for the mother said DCF failed to provide individualized reasonable efforts (training, ABA facilitation, transportation) necessary for reunification; DCF and child advocates argued the record shows mother's inconsistent engagement and the trial court's findings supported termination.
The final matter on the Jan. 5 sitting, Department of Children and Families v. Mother (impounded), examined whether the trial court erred in finding that DCF made reasonable, active and individualized efforts to reunify a mother with her medically complex children before terminating parental rights.
Tamika O'Brien, representing the mother, said the appeal did not contest the finding of unfitness but challenged the trial court's conclusion that the department had made reasonable efforts. O'Brien cited repeated failure by DCF to tailor the service plan over approximately two years, pointed to…
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