In Re: G., Jonathan
Annotate this Case
September 1996 Term
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No. 23465
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IN RE: JONATHAN G.
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Appeal from the Circuit Court of Berkeley County
Honorable Judge Thomas Steptoe, Circuit Judge
Civil Action No. 90-J-242
REMANDED
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Submitted: November 19, 1996
Filed: December 18, 1996
Guardian Ad Litem:
Tracy B. Dawson
Steptoe & Johnson
Martinsburg, West Virginia
For State of West Virginia:
Pamela Games-Neely
Prosecuting Attorney of
Berkeley County, West Virginia
Martinsburg, West Virginia
For Kenneth and Patricia Stem:
Scott A. Ollar
Camiletti, Ollar & Santa Barbara
Martinsburg, West Virginia
For Johnny G.:
Bryan Craig Manford
Martinsburg, West Virginia
For Lisa Knighton:
Robert Schiavoni
Hammer, Ferretti & Schiavoni
Martinsburg, West Virginia
For Department of Health and
Human Services:
Barbara L. Baxter
Assistant Attorney General
Charleston, West Virginia
For Amicus Curiae:
Jane Moran
Williamson, West Virginia
JUSTICE WORKMAN delivered the Opinion of the Court.
JUDGE RECHT sitting by temporary assignment.
SYLLABUS BY THE COURT
1. The foster parents' involvement in abuse and neglect proceedings should be
separate and distinct from the fact-finding portion of the termination proceeding and should
be structured for the purpose of providing the circuit court with all pertinent information
regarding the child. The level and type of participation in such cases is left to the sound
discretion of the circuit court with due consideration of the length of time the child has been
cared for by the foster parents and the relationship that has developed. To the extent that this
holding is inconsistent with Bowens v. Maynard, 174 W. Va. 184, 324 S.E.2d 145 (1984),
that decision is hereby modified.
2. "Parental rights may be terminated where there is clear and convincing evidence
that the infant child has suffered extensive physical abuse while in the custody of his or her
parents, and there is no reasonable likelihood that the conditions of abuse can be
substantially corrected because the perpetrator of the abuse has not been identified and the
parents, even in the face of knowledge of the abuse, have taken no action to identify the
abuser." Syl. Pt. 3, In re Jeffrey R.L., 190 W. Va. 24, 435 S.E.2d 162 (1993).
3. "Child abuse and neglect cases must be recognized as being among the highest
priority for the courts' attention. Unjustified procedural delays wreak havoc on a child's
development, stability and security." Syl. Pt. 1, in part, In re Carlita B., 185 W. Va. 613,
408 S.E.2d 365 (1991).
4. "'Under W. Va. Code, 49-6-2(b) (1984), when an improvement period is
authorized, then the court by order shall require the Department of Human Services to
prepare a family case plan pursuant to W. Va. Code, 49-6D-3 (1984).' Syl. Pt. 3, State ex
rel. West Virginia Dept. of Human Serv. v. Cheryl M., 177 W. Va. 688, 356 S.E.2d 181
(1987)." Syl. Pt. 3, In re Carlita B., 185 W. Va. 613, 408 S.E.2d 365 (1991).
5. " In formulating the improvement period and family case plans, courts and social
service workers should cooperate to provide a workable approach for the resolution of family
problems which have prevented the child or children from receiving appropriate care from
their parents. The formulation of the improvement period and family case plans should
therefore be a consolidated, multi-disciplinary effort among the court system, the parents,
attorneys, social service agencies, and any other helping personnel involved in assisting the
family." Syl. Pt. 4, In re Carlita B., 185 W. Va. 613, 408 S.E.2d 365 (1991).
6. "The clear import of the statute [West Virginia Code § 49-6-2(d)] is that matters
involving the abuse and neglect of children shall take precedence over almost every other
matter with which a court deals on a daily basis, and it clearly reflects the goal that such
proceedings must be resolved as expeditiously as possible." Syl. Pt. 5, In re Carlita B., 185
W. Va. 613, 408 S.E.2d 365 (1991).
7. "At the conclusion of the improvement period, the court shall review the
performance of the parents in attempting to attain the goals of the improvement period and
shall, in the court's discretion, determine whether the conditions of the improvement period
have been satisfied and whether sufficient improvement has been made in the context of all
the circumstances of the case to justify the return of the child." Syl. Pt. 6,
In re Carlita B., 185 W. Va. 613, 408 S.E.2d 365 (1991).
8. "It is a traumatic experience for children to undergo sudden and dramatic changes
in their permanent custodians. Lower courts in cases such as these should provide, whenever
possible, for a gradual transition period, especially where young children are involved.
Further, such gradual transition periods should be developed in a manner intended to foster
the emotional adjustment of the children to this change and to maintain as much stability as
possible in their lives." Syl. Pt. 3, James M. v. Maynard, 185 W. Va. 648, 408 S.E.2d 400
(1991).
9. "In cases where there is a termination of parental rights, the circuit court should
consider whether continued association with siblings in other placements is in the child's
best interests, and if such continued association is in such child's best interests, the court
should enter an appropriate order to preserve the rights of siblings to continued contact."
Syl. Pt. 4, James M. v. Maynard, 185 W. Va. 648, 408 S.E.2d 400 (1991).
10. "When parental rights are terminated due to neglect or abuse, the circuit court
may nevertheless in appropriate cases consider whether continued visitation or other contact
with the abusing parent is in the best interest of the child. Among other things, the circuit
court should consider whether a close emotional bond has been established between parent
and child and the child's wishes, is he or she is of appropriate maturity to make such request.
The evidence must indicate that such visitation or continued contact would not be detrimental
to the child's well being and would be in the child's best interest." Syl. Pt. 5, In re Christina
L., 194 W. Va. 446, 460 S.E.2d 692 (1995).
11. A child has a right to continued association with individuals with whom he has
formed a close emotional bond, including foster parents, provided that a determination is
made that such continued contact is in the best interests of the child.
Workman, Justice:
Appellants Kenneth and Patricia Stem, as prior long-term foster parents of the infant
Jonathan G.,See footnote 1 appeal from the October 23, 1995, decisionSee footnote 2 of the Circuit Court of Berkeley
County denying them permanent visitation rights with Jonathan G. The Stems assert
additional error with regard to the circuit court's failure to permit them to participate
meaningfully in the termination proceedings that occurred on June 21 and 22, 1994; the
circuit court's decision to return Jonathan G. to his biological parents; and the circuit court's
decision to remove the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources
("DHHR") from this case. DHHR cross-assigns as error the circuit court's decision to return
Jonathan G. to his parents, the prosecuting attorney's improper representation of DHHR, and
the circuit court's removal of DHHR from the case. Upon a thorough review of this matter,
weSee footnote 3 affirm the circuit court's order restoring permanent custody to the natural parents, but remand this case for further proceedings to determine whether it would be in Jonathan G.'s
best interest to have continued contact with the Stems.
I. Factual and Procedural Background
Jonathan G. was born to Johnny G. and Lisa K. on April 23, 1990. While his parents
are hearing impaired,See footnote 4 Jonathan G. has no hearing problems. In June of 1990, Jonathan G.
suffered a spiral break of his left femur, which was subsequently determined by the treating
physicians to be accidental in nature. Then on December 8, 1990, Jonathan G.'s mother took
him to the emergency room for what was later diagnosed as "shaken baby syndrome." The
shaking incident actually occurred a day earlier. As a result of the shaking, Jonathan
suffered intercranial hemorrhaging. The severity of his injuries required immediate transfer
to Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, Maryland, for treatment.
On December 19, 1990, DHHR filed an abuse and neglect petition pursuant to West
Virginia Code § 49-6-1 (1996), seeking temporary custody of Jonathan G.See footnote 5 A hearing was
held on the abuse and neglect petition on December 28, 1990, and the circuit court found that
DHHR had demonstrated probable cause concerning the abuse of Jonathan G. The circuit court granted DHHR custody of Jonathan G. for sixty days, ordered supervised visitation for
Jonathan G.'s parents, and further directed that the natural parents were to submit to
psychological examinations. Through this same order,See footnote 6 the court ordered DHHR to develop
a family case plan in accordance with the provisions of West Virginia Code § 49-6D-3
(1996) and to make all reasonable efforts in assisting Jonathan G. to remain in his home.
The Stems, as foster parents, were awarded physical custody of Jonathan G. on December
29, 1990, when he was ten months old. Jonathan G. continued in their care and custody until
September 2, 1994, when he was over four years old.
An adjudicatory hearing was held on February 19, 1991. During this hearing, the
circuit court received the psychological report of Hal Slaughter. The order reflecting the
findings of this proceeding states that:
Upon motion by the State, the Counsel for the natural
parents and infant child, as well as the State, agreed to stipulate
that the report of Hal Slaughter was acceptable and should be
entered in the record.
The Court then notified the parties that the mother within
the report had admitted that she was in fact the party who had
abused the child. The mother acknowledged in the affirmative.
The Court accordingly accepts the stipulation of the parties to
Mr. Slaughter's report.
As a result of the adjudicatory proceeding, the circuit court concluded that Jonathan G. was
an abused and neglected child; continued the custody of the infant child with DHHR; ordered DHHR to develop a family case plan; ordered supervised visitation for the natural parents;
and directed that the natural parents participate in counseling programs as directed by
DHHR. The order further provided that the natural parents were to be permitted to use the
services of an interpreter to assist them in cooperating with the circuit court's directives.
A dispositional hearing was held on May 13, 1991, resulting in the circuit court's
continuation of custody with DHHR. The circuit court again directed that the natural parents
were to participate in counseling programs after finding "no improvement from the prior
hearing." The circuit court further directed the child's parents to cooperate with DHHR "and
with the Family Case Plan filed in this matter."
On June 11, 1992, DHHR filed a motion for termination of parental rights, asserting
that the biological parents deny any abuse of Jonathan G. and that counseling has resulted
in "very little progress." The petition further provides that DHHR has permitted the natural
parents to have weekly visitation during the entire seventeen-month period that Jonathan G.
has been in the custody of foster parents.
On July 16, 1992, the circuit court ordered Dr. Townsend, a psychologist, to
perform an independent evaluation of Jonathan G. and his natural parents. On July 28, 1992,
the circuit court granted the State's motion to continue the termination proceedings based on
the "recent development" concerning the availability of "services that might have been provided to hearing impaired parents of hearing children which were not provided due to two
opposing expert philosophies."See footnote 7
Dr. Townsend sent the circuit court a letter dated October 9, 1992, indicating that Lisa
K. "has shown progress" and referencing the viability of the improvement plan previously
discussed with the court. Another letter, dated October 16, 1992, from Randy Henderson,
a licensed professional counselor, sets forth that both natural parents "have shown progress
in our therapy sessions." During a hearing before the circuit court on November 30, 1992,
the natural parents moved for increased visitation with Jonathan G. While the circuit court
denied an increase in the frequency of the visitation, it ordered that "the length of each visit
should be gradually increased" and further provided for "[a]t least one unsupervised visit .
. . around Christmas." The circuit court ordered expanded visitation for the natural parents
at a hearing on January 15, 1993. The order from this proceeding indicates that following
"a two hour session between the parents, child and third party [,visitation] then shall be
expanded to a two hour session twice weekly then shall be expanded to five hour sessions"
and further states the court's intention "that unsupervised visitation of very short periods of
time may be arranged in the future."
By January 4, 1993, Jonathan G. had been in the Stems' custody and care for more
than two years, and they filed a petition seeking leave to make an appearance in these proceedings.See footnote 8 As support for their intervention, the Stems averred that DHHR "has been
largely unsuccessful" in its efforts to "prevent the termination of the parental rights" and in
its "effort[s] to reunify the family." The Stems stated that their intention was "to appear in
a hybrid relationship of physical custodian of the child and as the child's representative in
loco parenti." As statutory authority for their involvement, the Stems cited West Virginia
Code §§ 49-6-5 and -8 (1996).See footnote 9 After requesting briefs from the parties on the issue of the
Stems' involvement in these proceedings,See footnote 10 the circuit court heard arguments concerning this
issue on February 4, 1993. Finding that "there is no clear statutory provision for automatic
standing of a foster family[,]" the circuit court initially denied the Stems' petition for
intervention. However, by order entered July 8, 1993, the circuit court "granted [the Stems]
standing in this matter, in order to present another perspective on the best interests of the
minor."See footnote 11 The order granting standing expressly admonishes the Stems "that their involvement in these proceedings should not create the false impression that they have
parental rights equivalent to Johnny G. or Lisa K., nor coequivalent rights of any sort with
regard to Jonathan G."
On May 6th and 7th, 1993, the circuit court held a hearing on a petition filed by the
natural parents, seeking a finding of contempt against DHHR.See footnote 12 The circuit court found that DHHR was "in contempt of the prior Orders of this Court regarding preparation of a case
plan for the purpose of reunification[.]" The circuit court declared that DHHR "is unable
to continue to manage this case objectively with a view towards possible reunification of the
family herein, and accordingly must be removed as the primary case manager but should
remain as a party throughout these proceedings." Responsibility for the "development and
implementation of a case plan consistent with the expressed goals of reunification previously
contained in the prior Orders of the Court[]" was delegated to an independent agency. The
private agency utilized in the stead of DHHR was Action Youth Care, Inc. ("Action Youth").
The order reflecting the contempt proceedings makes it clear that while DHHR was
"removed from its role as case manager," the circuit court directed that DHHR "shall remain
a party to these proceedings and will be represented by counsel of its choice."See footnote 13
On June 7, 1993, the circuit court ordered that this matter be continued for six
monthsSee footnote 14 "at which time the Court shall review the efforts of . . . Action Youth Care, Inc. to
determine whether or not the parents and the child can be successfully reunited or the
parental rights [should be] terminated." In November 1993, the circuit court enlisted the
services of Dr. Paul Kradel, as friend of the court, to perform a psychological study and
family assessment of the parties. In the report dated February 3, 1994, that Dr. Kradel
submitted to the circuit court, he states that Lisa K. "provided me with no definitive answer
about who might have done the shaking."See footnote 15 He concluded that "it is my estimation that it will take a minimum of another three (3) years of intensive social and therapeutic services to
bring the biological family to a point of skill where they can function as an independent
family unit."
In the monthly progress report submitted to the circuit court by Action Youth dated
March 7, 1994, the natural parents were noted to have completed their in-home
preservation/reunification program as of January 17, 1994. The report further states:
Action Youth Care is of the opinion that this family is very
aware of its obligation to this child and are capable of parenting
this child in a safe, consistent, self-respecting, and definitely
loving atmosphere. We do not suspect this child to be in any
sort of physical or mental danger while in the biological home
nor have we witnessed anything that would indicate otherwise.
We feel that permanency for this child is the utmost importance
at this time.
On April 19, 1994, the StateSee footnote 16 filed a petition to terminate the parental rights of the
natural parents. As grounds for its petition, the State cited the mother's denial of her earlier
admission of the abuse and the lengthy period of time Dr. Kradel estimated it would take
before the family could function independently. A two-day hearing was held on the State's
termination motion on June 21 and 22, 1994. Before concluding the presentation of its evidence, however, the State withdrew its petition when it realized it was unable to meet its
burden of proof.See footnote 17 The circuit court's order reflects that "[t]he State further requested that
reunification efforts continue and that within a six month time frame the infant child shall
be returned to the physical custody of the biological parents" and "the plan outlined by Dr.
Paul Kradle [sic] should be implemented." The order finds, inter alia, that:
1. The facts and evidence in this case are insufficient to
support termination.
2. Once appropriate services were provided the family
improved.
3. The safety of the child is not an issue.
4. The foster family has been a valuable resource in this
case and have provided excellent care for this child.
5. The Court agrees that closure is needed.
6. The Court agrees that in six months that the child
should be physically reunited with the biological parents.
On August 1, 1994, the Stems presented arguments on their Rule 60(b) motion for
reliefSee footnote 18 from the circuit court's order entered in connection with the termination proceedings.
Relying on the Bowens case, the Stems argued that they were denied meaningful
participation at the termination proceeding. The Stems' motion was opposed by the guardian
ad litem, the State, and the natural parents. After hearing arguments regarding the Stems' lack of participation at the termination proceedings,See footnote 19 the circuit court ordered the parties to
submit briefs on this issue. After reconsidering this issue at a hearing on August 24, 1994,
the circuit court denied the Stems' motion for relief, finding that:
the case of Bowen[s] v. Maynard, 324 S.E.2d 145 (W.Va. 1984)
is distinguishable from this case primarily due to the fact that
custody was given to the Petitioner in Bowen[s] by the natural
parents and in this case the Intervenors' [Stems'] custody was
given to them by the Department of Health and Human
Resources who in fact have custody and were allowed to fully
participate in the hearing on June 21 and 22, 1994 . . . .
At the conclusion of this same proceeding, the circuit court ordered that Jonathan G. was to
be returned to his natural parents' household on September 2, 1994, and provided for the
foster parents to have visitation on alternating weekends and on alternating holidays,
beginning on September 9, 1994.
Although the termination proceedings had reached their conclusion on June 22, 1994,
at which time the petition seeking termination was dismissed pursuant to joint motion of the
State and DHHR, the circuit court continued jurisdiction in this matter "because of the
special needs that are present in this case." The circuit court reviewed the status of this
matter periodically.See footnote 20 By letter dated April 24, 1995, Dr. Kradel reported to the circuit court that "[f]or the most part things are going well. The biological parents have independently
provided the majority of care for their son for nearly eight months with no major problems."
The final hearing held in this case occurred on October 23, 1995, at which time
Jonathan G. was returned to the legal custody of his natural parents. While finding that
"both biological and foster parents are 'psychological parents'" of Jonathan G., the circuit
court concluded, "that it does not believe that it has the authority to order visitation rights to
the foster parents; however, if he had the power he would do so." The natural parents agreed
to voluntary visitation, which continued until the Stems filed their petition for appeal with
this Court.
II. Discussion
A. Procedural Delays
We face yet another case where the delays in resolving the underlying allegations of
abuse, in developing an effective improvement plan, in resolving whether the family could
be reunified, and in bringing permanency to this child's life are totally unacceptable.
Upon reviewing another egregiously delayed abuse and neglect case chronology in In re
Carlita B., 185 W. Va. 613, 408 S.E.2d 365 (1991) we said:
Certainly many delays are occasioned by the fact that
troubled human relationships and aggravated parenting problems
are not remedied overnight. The law properly recognizes that
rights of natural parents enjoy a great deal of protection and that
one of the primary goals of the social services network and the
courts is to give aid to parents and children in an effort to
reunite them.
The bulk of the most aggravated procedural delays, however,
are occasioned less by the complexities of mending broken
people and relationships than by the tendency of these types of
cases to fall through the cracks in the system. The long
procedural delays in this and most other abuse and neglect cases
considered by this Court in the last decade indicate that neither
the lawyers nor the courts are doing an adequate job of assuring
that children--the most voiceless segment of our society--aren't
left to languish in a limbo-like state during a time most crucial
to their human development.
Id. at 623, 408 S.E.2d at 375.
Since the Carlita B. case in 1991, this Court has consistently urged upon the circuit
courts that they must accord abuse and neglect cases the highest priority and must not let
them languish during the critical formative years in a child's life. We urged this point again
in State ex rel. Amy M. v. Kaufman, 196 W. Va. 251, 470 S.E.2d 205 (1996), while
recognizing how difficult it can be for courts to recognize that the time is ripe for decision:
A circuit judge overseeing a case such as this has an
immensely difficult task, for in many abuse and neglect cases
there is a genuine emotional bond as well as the natural
biological bond between parent and child which courts are
understandably hesitant to break if there is hope of meaningful change. In most abuse and neglect cases, the parent(s) may
have redeeming qualities that create such hope that they will be
able to make the necessary changes to become adequate parents.
. . . .
Although it is sometimes a difficult task, the trial court
must accept the fact that the statutory limits on improvement
periods (as well as our case law limiting the right to
improvement periods) dictate that there comes a time for
decision, because a child deserves resolution and permanency
in his or her life, and because part of that permanency must
include at minimum a right to rely on his or her caretakers to be
there to provide the basic nurturance of life.
Id. at __, 470 S.E.2d at 214.
Despite this Court's emphasis on the level of attention that should be given to abuse
and neglect cases, lawyers and judges continue to allow these cases to lag on without prompt
resolution. While fault for the delays experienced in the instant case can be assessed against
various entities, our goal is not to point the finger of fault but to seek once again to capture
the circuit courts' attention on this issue. Hopefully, this Court's adoption of the new Rules
of Procedure for Abuse and Neglect Proceedings, on December 5, 1996, will create progress
in this very difficult arena.
B. Role of Foster Parents at Termination Proceeding
The Stems argue that they were denied the right to meaningful participation at the
termination hearing. Their counsel was permitted to be present, but was not permitted to
present or cross-examine witnesses.See footnote 21
This Court recognized in syllabus point one of Bowens that "[i]f a party has lawful
physical custody of a child, she has the right to service of process and to be heard in any
proceeding that concerns the child." 174 W. Va. at 184-85, 324 S.E.2d at 145. We further
held that "[i]f a party having lawful physical custody of a child is not served with process of
a proceeding concerning that child she has the right to intervene in that proceeding." Id. In
that case, we determined that an individual who had been granted physical custody of the
children by written agreement of the natural mother prior to the initiation of abuse and
neglect proceedings was entitled to notice of the proceedings pursuant to West Virginia Code
§ 49-6-2(c) and was wrongly denied the right to intervene in the abuse proceedings. In
deciding Bowens, the Court first looked to the definition of custodian found in West Virginia
Code § 49-1-5(5) (1981)See footnote 22 which provides that "'[c]ustodian' means a person who has or
shares actual physical possession or care and custody of a child, regardless of whether such person has been granted custody of the child by any contract, agreement or legal
proceedings[.]" This Court then examined the language of West Virginia Code § 49-6-2(c)
(1984),See footnote 23 which stated that "[i]n any proceeding under this article, the party or parties having
custody of the child shall be afforded a meaningful opportunity to be heard, including the
opportunity to testify and to present and cross-examine witnesses."
In denying the Stems' motion for relief, the circuit court reasoned that the
involvement of DHHR, as Jonathan G.'s custodian, precluded the applicability of the
Bowens ruling. While DHHR was clearly the legal custodian of Jonathan G., however, it
was not his physical custodian. Thus, the circuit court's attempt to distinguish Bowens from
the present case on that basis does not survive scrutiny under the statutory definition of
custodian. See W. Va. Code § 49-1-5(5). Bowens, however, was decided in the factual
context of an individual who was a lawful custodian prior to the initiation of abuse and
neglect proceedings, which clearly is the type of custodian contemplated by the provisions
of West Virginia Code § 49-6-2(c). The more difficult issue that we face here is whether
foster parents enjoy the statutory rights of notice and participation extended by West Virginia
Code § 49-6-2(c) when their status as a child's custodian results from the filing of abuse and neglect charges and exists subject to and under the auspices of the DHHR's role as the
child's legal custodian. An examination of the law of other jurisdictions is helpful.
The Court of Appeals of Minnesota determined in In re Welfare of C.J., 481 N.W.2d 861 (Minn. App. 1992), that because the statutory definition of custodianSee footnote 24 included foster
parents, the foster parents involved in that case were permitted to intervene under
Minnesota's statutory language which parallels that of West Virginia Code § 49-6-2(c).See footnote 25
481 N.W.2d at 862-63. The Minnesota court expressly rejected the argument that the foster
parents are merely agents for the county and therefore cannot intervene as of right. The court
held: "The intervention statute, however, does not require a party have legal custody; instead
the party must only be a lawful custodian. Here the foster parents fall under the definition
of custodian and therefore they have the right to participate in the termination proceedings."
Id. at 863. Like the Minnesota court, we conclude that the absence of a statutory provision
requiring that only legal custodians have a right to participate in termination proceedings negates the argument that DHHR's involvement, as the child's legal custodian, is all that is
authorized by West Virginia Code §49-6-2(c).
Numerous tribunals have permitted foster parents to intervene and participate in at
least part of the termination proceedings, depending on applicable statutory provisions. See
Custody of a Minor, 432 N.E.2d 546, 554 (Mass. App. 1982) (finding no error in trial court's
decision to permit foster parent involvement in termination proceedings despite lack of
constitutional right to such participation); In re Kimberly J., 595 N.Y.S.2d 146 (N.Y. App.
Div. 1993) (holding that foster parents had no statutory right to intervene in fact-finding
stage of termination proceedings, but did have right to intervene in dispositional phase of
proceeding given custody nature of proceeding); In re Baby Boy Scearce, 345 S.E.2d 404,
410 (N.C. App. 1986) (discussing statutory right of foster parents to participate in review
proceedings concerning child's placement after termination of parental rights and noting
"[a]t the very least, foster parents have the right for an opportunity to be heard, a right which
derives from the child's right to have his or her best interests protected"); see also Berhow
v. Crow, 423 So. 2d 371 (Fla. Dist. Ct. 1982) (finding that foster parents had liberty interest
arising from relationship with child that entitled them to notice and meaningful opportunity
to be heard in adoption proceedings).
Many of those courts that permit foster parents to participate in termination
proceedings recognize a need to limit the scope of their involvement in such proceedings.
In In re D.L.C., 834 S.W.2d 760 (Mo. Ct. App. 1992), the appellate court held that the foster
parents' participation in everything but name in a parental rights termination proceeding was reversible error.See footnote 26 Id. at 768. Rather than relying on language within a termination statute
as grounds for participation, however, the foster parents in D.L.C. looked to the provisions
of a foster parent statute which permitted them "to present evidence for the consideration of
the court."See footnote 27 834 S.W.2d at 767 (quoting 1985 Mo. Laws § 211.464). In castigating the full-
blown participation of the foster parents in the termination proceeding, the Missouri
appellate court cited the United States Supreme Court's observation in Santosky v. Kramer,
455 U.S. 745 (1982), that: "'However substantial the foster parents' interests may be, they
are not implicated directly in the factfinding stage of a state-initiated permanent neglect
proceeding against the natural parents.'" 834 S.W.2d at 767 (quoting Santosky, 455 U.S. at
761 and citation omitted).
In the instant case, it is difficult not to be sympathetic to the Stems' effort to
participate, not only because they had Jonathan G. with them for so long, providing him with
love, constancy, and care in his earliest years; but also because the significant issues relating
to a child's life and fate must not be decided in some artificial procedural vacuum, and the
Stems, after the passage of so much time, probably were absolutely more knowledgeable than
anyone as to this child's needs. What makes balancing their right to participate, and the
extent of such participation, against the natural rights of the biological parents, as well as the
statutory objective of reunifying Jonathan G. with them, so difficult is that both sets of
parents, foster and biological, obviously loved and wanted this child. As a result of this love,
and their strong commitment to this child, the two sets of parents became adversaries during
these proceedings. As an aside, we must comment that scenarios such as the one before us
would discourage most people from ever embarking on the noble work of foster care. Since
the Stems were a constant in Jonathan G.'s life for such a long period of time and during his
formative years, it would seem to go against not only all principles of fairness and equity,
but also against all values of human relationship and compassion to deny them the right to
be heard as to Jonathan G.'s best interests during these proceedings.
While we recognize that the statutory language of West Virginia Code § 49-6-2(c),
when viewed in conjunction with the Bowens case, certainly appears to afford foster parents
a right to participate in abuse and neglect proceedings, we believe sound public policy and
the overall purposes of both statutory and case law regarding abuse and neglect proceedings dictate that such participation have its limits. Perhaps the healthiest balance we can achieve
is to hold that the foster parents' involvement in abuse and neglect proceedings should be
separate and distinct from the fact-finding portion of the termination proceeding and should
be structured for the purpose of providing the circuit court with all pertinent information
regarding the child. The level and type of participation in such cases is left to the sound
discretion of the circuit court with due consideration of the length of time the child has been
cared for by the foster parents and the relationship that has developed. To the extent that
this holding is inconsistent with Bowens v. Maynard, 174 W. Va. 184, 324 S.E.2d 145
(1984), that decision is hereby modified. When foster parents are involved in these
proceedings, however, the circuit court must assure that the proceeding does not evolve into
a comparison of the relative fitness of the foster parents versus the biological parents.See footnote 28 See
In re Trapp, 593 S.W.2d 193, 205-06 (Mo. 1980), appeal dismissed, 456 U.S. 967 (1982)
(overruling trial court's granting of foster parents' motion to intervene in neglect
proceedings, noting that foster parents' presence would "interject the false issue of the fitness
of the foster parents to have custody of the children" and observing that children cannot be
removed from their parents on grounds that they would be "better off" in another home).
We do not reverse the circuit court on this issue of denial of meaninful participation,
but direct that on remand the Stems should be given a full opportunity to be heard concerning
Jonathan G.'s interests and their desire to have a continued relationship with him.
C. Failure to Terminate Parental Rights
Both the Stems and DHHRSee footnote 29 argue that the circuit court erred by not terminating the
parental rights of the natural parents. In support of this assignment, these parties cite in In
re Jeffrey R.L., 190 W. Va. 24, 435 S.E.2d 162 (1993), in which we held that:
Parental rights may be terminated where there is clear
and convincing evidence that the infant child has suffered
extensive physical abuse while in the custody of his or her
parents, and there is no reasonable likelihood that the conditions
of abuse can be substantially corrected because the perpetrator
of the abuse has not been identified and the parents, even in the
face of knowledge of the abuse, have taken no action to identify
the abuser.
Id. at 25-26, 435 S.E.2d at 163-64, Syl. Pt. 3. They question whether Lisa K. properly
acknowledged that she committed an abusive act towards Jonathan G. The record reveals
that during the adjudicatory hearing on February 19, 1991, the circuit court expressly
incorporated the report of the psychologist, Hal Slaughter, to whom Lisa K. admitted that she
had committed the act resulting in Jonathan G.'s "shaken baby" diagnosis. The circuit court's order further states "[t]he mother acknowledged in the affirmative." While it is
somewhat unclear from this language whether the circuit court was referencing an in-court
affirmation by Lisa K. regarding the act of abuse, nonetheless, the parties stipulated to the
admission of Mr. Slaughter's report which contained the admission of abuse.
The facts of this case simply are not the equivalent of those present in In re Jeffrey
R.L. While Lisa K. did vacillate when subsequently questioned regarding the act of abuse
during therapy, Dr. Kradel suggests an explanation in his report of February 3, 1994: "In
some instances individuals have emotional blockages where traumatic experiences are
removed from conscious awareness and they truly do not remember what has happened to
them or what they have done." Another explanation provided by the signing counselors,
according to the prosecutor's brief, is that "the mother could no longer recount the abuse .
. . because in therapy they had moved beyond that point and progressed toward positive
interaction with the child." While Lisa K. may have shown some ambivalence about her
earlier admission of abuse,See footnote 30 the original acknowledgment was nonetheless made.See footnote 31 Moreover, both the natural parents cooperated with therapeutic intervention, that was
ultimately deemed beneficial.
The termination proceedings ended on the State's motion to withdraw the petition
with DHHR joining in this decision. We find no abuse of discretion regarding the circuit
court's granting of that motion based on its finding that the evidence presented at that time
was not sufficient to justify termination. Apparently, the circuit court, the State, and DHHR
all agreed that the evidence, at this time, did not support a finding that the conditions that led
to the abuse could not be substantially corrected. The record reveals that the guardian ad
litem had no objection to the withdrawal of the termination petition.See footnote 32
D. Removal of DHHR
While DHHR argues that it was removed from this case by virtue of the circuit court's
ruling during the May 6-7, 1993, contempt proceedings, a careful review of the record does
not support this position. The circuit court removed DHHR as the case manager due to its
conclusion that DHHR was "in contempt of the prior Orders regarding preparation of a case
plan for the purpose of reunification." The order entered in connection with this proceeding
states clearly that DHHR "should remain as a party throughout these proceedings."
The circuit court apparently felt that it had no choice but to involve an independent
agency like Action Youth, given DHHR's failure to obey the circuit court's repeated
directive to develop and follow a case plan for the purpose of reunifying Jonathan G. with
his natural parents. DHHR, as a party to this case (usually by its agent, an individual child
protective services worker), has the right and responsibility to advocate whatever position
it determines proper under the law and in the best interests of the child. However, DHHR
also has the duty to follow the court's directives in working on the case from the perspective
of the delivery of social services. In a case, such as this, where DHHR refuses to comply
with court directives, a circuit court may appoint an agency independent of DHHR to assist
in case management. DHHR, however, as the circuit court clearly recognized by virtue of
its directive that DHHR remain a party, was not absolved of its statutory duties to Jonathan
G. despite its removal as the case manager.
E. Role of Prosecuting Attorney
The duties of the prosecuting attorney in regard to prosecution of abuse and neglect
proceedings are set forth in West Virginia Code § 49-6-10 (1996):
It shall be the duty of every prosecuting attorney to fully
and promptly cooperate with persons seeking to apply for relief
under the provisions of this article in all cases of suspected child
abuse and neglect, to promptly prepare applications and
petitions for relief requested by such persons, to investigate
reported cases of suspected child abuse and neglect for possible
criminal activity and to report at least annually to the grand jury
regarding the discharge of his or her duties with respect thereto.
In the amicus brief submitted in this case by Jane Moran, she states that "[t]he relationship
between the DHHR and the Prosecuting Attorney . . . appears to have been mutually
supportive from the original taking of Jonathan in December, 1990 through July 1992." Ms.
Moran suggests that the problem began when the prosecutor sought a continuance on the
grounds that "'there are services that might have been provided to hearing impaired parents
of hearing children which were not provided due to two opposing expert philosophies.'"
Apparently, there was a meeting between the prosecutor and the foster care workers and
assigned supervisor on January 25, 1993, during which it became apparent that the
prosecutor did not support DHHR's decision to seek a termination of parental rights.
The record, as well as the oral arguments presented in this case, evidence that
vitriolic discord existed between DHHR and the prosecuting attorney, all of which stemmed
from a difference in views regarding the resolution of this matter. The prosecutor apparently
believed that reunification was possible, whereas DHHR fervently believed that termination of parental rights was in Jonathan G.'s best interests.See footnote 33 Herein lies the problem. Should the
role of the prosecutor be comparable to her role in criminal proceedings, requiring her to
independently weigh the evidence before proceeding on a complaint, or should it be that of
a traditional lawyer/client relationship, requiring her to present evidence in accord with the
client's wishes within the confines of the law?
Guidance on this issue is provided by West Virginia Code § 49-7-26 (1996), which
states that "[t]he prosecuting attorney shall render to the state department of welfare [division
of human services], without additional compensation, such legal services as the department
may require." This statutory provision supports the view that the prosecuting attorney stands
in the traditional role of a lawyer when representing DHHR in connection with abuse and
neglect proceedings. Indeed, the prosecuting attorney cites no authority to the contrary. In
the analogous decision of Manchin v. Browning, 170 W. Va. 779, 296 S.E.2d 909 (1982),
this Court held that "[t]he Legislature has thus created a traditional attorney-client
relationship between the Attorney General and the state officers he is required to represent."
Id. at 790, 296 S.E.2d at 920. Based on our conclusion that the prosecuting attorney's role
as related to DHHR in an abuse and neglect proceeding is that of a traditional attorney-client, we further determine that a prosecuting attorney has no independent right to formulate and
advocate positions separate from its client in these cases.See footnote 34
This case presents a difficult and confusing scenario regarding the prosecuting
attorney's role.See footnote 35 According to the amicus brief, the prosecutor advised the circuit court
following the filing of the contempt petition by the natural parents against DHHR that she
had a conflict in representing her client in the contempt proceedings, but would not withdraw
"from any other part of this case." The Attorney General was brought into the case at the
prosecutor's requestSee footnote 36 and upon the circuit court's direction.See footnote 37 Although the prosecuting attorney had a questionable role in these proceedings, the representations in her brief
illustrate the difficulties encountered by the prosecutor in connection with her representation
of DHHR.See footnote 38
Jane Moran, as amicus curiae, suggests that DHHR was prevented by the actions of
the prosecutor from presenting its point of view to the circuit court. We do not find that to
be the case. While DHHR has a right to determine and advocate a position that comports
with its statutory responsibilities, it must nonetheless follow the court's directives even if
such directives conflict with its position. All the orders clearly reflect the circuit court's
awareness of DHHR's view towards termination rather than reunification. In addition,
DHHR had the benefit of the Attorney General's counsel. Upon review, we find the
Department was not restricted from full participation in the proceedings, but only in its
management of the case. Although the prosecutor's role in this case appears to have
exceeded the boundaries of a traditional lawyer/client relationship, we find no reversible error with regard to the prosecutor's involvement in these proceedings under the facts of this
case. See infra note 38.
F. Failure to Develop Case Plan
The circuit court's orders are replete with directives to DHHR to develop a case plan.
Yet, we cannot determine from a review of the record whether such a plan was ever
developed and submitted to the circuit court. DHHR is statutorily obligated by West
Virginia Code § 49-6-5 (1996) to prepare the case plan immediately after a child is
adjudicated as abused or neglected.See footnote 39 Since this Court's decision in Carlita B., we have
repeatedly admonished lawyers and the circuit courts regarding the critical need for prompt
resolution of child abuse and neglect proceedings, as well as the importance of a promptly
prepared and thorough case plan geared toward meaningful improvement and reunification.
We recognized in Carlita B., that
1. Child abuse and neglect cases must be recognized as
being among the highest priority for the courts' attention.
Unjustified procedural delays wreak havoc on a child's
development, stability and security. . . .
3. "Under W. Va. Code, 49-6-2(b) (1984), when an
improvement period is authorized, then the court by order shall
require the Department of Human Services to prepare a family
case plan pursuant to W. Va. Code, 49-6D-3 (1984)."
Syl. Pt. 3, State ex rel. West Virginia Dept. of Human Serv. v.
Cheryl M., 177 W. Va. 688, 356 S.E.2d 181 (1987).
4. In formulating the improvement period and family
case plans, courts and social service workers should cooperate
to provide a workable approach for the resolution of family
problems which have prevented the child or children from
receiving appropriate care from their parents. The formulation
of the improvement period and family case plans should
therefore be a consolidated, multi-disciplinary effort among the
court system, the parents, attorneys, social service agencies, and
any other helping personnel involved in assisting the family.
5. The clear import of the statute [West Virginia Code
§ 49-6-2(d)] is that matters involving the abuse and neglect of
children shall take precedence over almost every other matter
with which a court deals on a daily basis, and it clearly reflects
the goal that such proceedings must be resolved as expeditiously
as possible.
6. At the conclusion of the improvement period, the
court shall review the performance of the parents in attempting
to attain the goals of the improvement period and shall, in the
court's discretion, determine whether the conditions of the
improvement period have been satisfied and whether sufficient
improvement has been made in the context of all the
circumstances of the case to justify the return of the child.
185 W. Va. at 615-16, 408 S.E.2d at 367-68, Syl. Pts. 1, in part, 3-6.
While this case presents an unusual scenario in that DHHR was ordered removed as
the case manager and Action Youth appointed in its stead, the obligation to prepare a case
plan was initially imposed on DHHR at the conclusion of the adjudicatory hearing on
February 19, 1991, when the circuit court expressly ordered DHHR to develop a family case.
DHHR remained as the case manager in this case until May 7, 1993, when the circuit court removed it from such role, due to DHHR's failure to comply with the court's directives
regarding "the preparation of a case plan for the purpose of reunification." For more than
two years before its removal as case manager, DHHR was obligated to prepare a case plan.
Because the circuit court makes several references to requiring DHHR to update its case
plan, case plans may have been submitted to the trial court, and just not filed as a matter of
record.See footnote 40 However, given the circuit court's complete dissatisfaction with DHHR regarding
its failure to submit a case plan dealing with reunification, we can only conclude that the
plans submitted by DHHR either did not comply with the statutory requirements of West
Virginia Code § 49-6-5 and/or the court's directives, or that DHHR's execution of the case
plan was determined by the circuit court to be inadequate. Even after Action Youth was
assigned the role of case manager, we believe that DHHR nonetheless retained its statutory
responsibility with regard to the filing of a case plan with the court under West Virginia
Code § 49-6-5.
To be very clear, the position of DHHR that the parental rights should have been
terminated is not without merit. Jonathan was a victim of shaken baby syndrome, which has
frequently been the cause of serious permanent injury, or even death, of infants. Once the
court made the determination that reunification was the goal, however, DHHR should have
worked diligently to accomplish that goal, or filed a petition for a writ of prohibition if they
believed the record justified it. See Syl. Pt. 2, Amy M., 196 W. Va. at __, 470 S.E.2d at 207 (holding that prohibition was available to restrain courts from granting improvement periods
of greater extent and duration than permitted statutorily); see also State ex rel. West Virginia
Dep't of Health and Human Resources, 185 W. Va. 318, 406 S.E.2d 749 (1991) (granting
writ of prohibition to DHHR to prevent enforcement of circuit court order directing blood
testing seven years after jury determination of paternity).
G. Visitation Rights
The circuit court incorrectly determined that it had no basis upon which to order
continued association between the foster parents and Jonathan G. Beginning with this
Court's decision in Honaker v. Burnside, 182 W. Va. 448, 388 S.E.2d 322 (1989), we have
recognized the need to consider whether a child, whose custodial arrangements are being
altered, should be permitted to have continued contact with individuals with whom an
emotional bond has been formed. In that case, we held that the circuit court should provide
for visitation rights between a child and her stepfather and half-brother. Id. at 452, 388 S.E.2d at 326. Later in James M. v. Maynard, 185 W. Va. 648, 408 S.E.2d 400 (1991), an
abuse and neglect case resulting in termination of parental rights, we held:
It is a traumatic experience for children to undergo
sudden and dramatic changes in their permanent custodians.
Lower courts in cases such as these should provide, whenever
possible, for a gradual transition period, especially where young
children are involved. Further, such gradual transition periods
should be developed in a manner intended to foster the emotional adjustment of the children to this change and to
maintain as much stability as possible in their lives.
In cases where there is a termination of parental rights,
the circuit court should consider whether continued association
with siblings in other placements is in the child's best interests,
and if such continued association is in such child's best
interests, the court should enter an appropriate order to preserve
the rights of siblings to continued contact.
Id. at 649, 408 S.E.2d at 401, Syl. Pts. 3, 4.
More recently in In re Christina L., 194 W. Va. 446, 460 S.E.2d 692 (1995), we
recognized that visitation rights may be afforded in some circumstances to a parent who is
found to have abused the child, even though his parental rights have been terminated:
When parental rights are terminated due to neglect or
abuse, the circuit court may nevertheless in appropriate cases
consider whether continued visitation or other contact with the
abusing parent is in the best interest of the child. Among other
things, the circuit court should consider whether a close
emotional bond has been established between parent and child
and the child's wishes, is he or she is of appropriate maturity to
make such request. The evidence must indicate that such
visitation or continued contact would not be detrimental to the
child's well being and would be in the child's best interest.
Id. at 448, 460 S.E.2d at 694, Syl. Pt. 5.
The guiding principle relied upon by this Court in recommending consideration of
continued contact with a child is whether a strong emotional bond exists between the child
and an individual such that cessation in contact might be harmful to the child, both in its transitory period of adjusting to a new custodial arrangement and in its long-term emotional
development. We find no reason to except individuals, like the Stems, who have had a
successful long-term relationship with a foster child and have been found, in fact, to be
psychological parents to Jonathan G., from consideration for such continued association.
The court in In re Custody of H.S.H.K., 533 N.W.2d 419 (Wis. 1995), cert. denied
sub nom. Knott v. Holtzman, __ U.S. __, 116 S. Ct. 475 (1995), observed that while "[t]here
is little uniformity in the case law concerning nonparental visitation over the objection of a
biological or adoptive parent, . . . some courts have observed a judicial trend toward
considering or allowing visitation to nonparents who have a parent-like relationship with the
child if visitation would be in the best interest of the child." Id. at 435, n.37 and cases cited
therein. The trial court was held to have abused its discretion in denying visitation rights to
the foster parents where a foster family had been the custodial family since birth of a five-
year-old child. In re Ashley K., 571 N.E.2d 905 (Ill. App. 1991). The court upheld the trial
court's decision to grant visitation rights to the non-successful adoptive foster parents in In
re Adoption of Francisco A., 866 P.2d 1175 (N.M. App, 1993), relying on the best interests
of the child standard. The court recognized that such visitation rights may be reconsidered
"[i]f at some time the visitation is no longer in the child's best interests." Id. at 1181; see
also In re John T., 538 N.W.2d 761, 772 (Neb. App. 1995) (refusing to remove child from
foster parent who had AIDS, observing that lack of biological connection between foster
parent and child was inconsequential in assessing child's best interests); Sorensen v. Sorensen, 906 P.2d 838 (Or. App. 1995) (applying statute that permits any person including
a foster parent "who has established emotional ties creating a child-parent relationship" to
petition court for visitation rights).
Based on the principle of a child's right to continued association previously
enunciated by this Court, we hold that a child has a right to continued association with
individuals with whom he has formed a close emotional bond,See footnote 41 including foster parents,
provided that a determination is made that such continued contact is in the best interests of
the child. Accordingly, we remand this matter for further proceedings to determine whether
continued contact with the Stems would be in Jonathan G.'s best interest. Due to the lengthy
period of time that Jonathan G. has now resided exclusively in the home of his natural
parents, the assessment of such continued contact may be different from what it might have
been immediately following the transfer of physical custody.
Based on the foregoing, the decision of the Circuit Court of Berkeley County is
remanded for further proceedings to consider whether continued association between
Jonathan G. and his former foster parents is in his best interests.
Remanded.
Footnote: 1
Consistent with our prior practice, we identify the infant and his parents by initials
due to the sensitive nature of this case. See In re Jonathon P., 182 W. Va. 302, 303, 387 S.E.2d 537, 538 n.1 (1989). Footnote: 2
The order reflecting the circuit court's decision was not entered until October 2,
1996.Footnote: 3
The Honorable Arthur M. Recht resigned as Justice of the West Virginia Supreme
Court of Appeals effective October 15, 1996. The Honorable Gaston Caperton, Governor
of the State of West Virginia, appointed him Judge of the First Judicial Circuit on that same
date. Pursuant to an administrative order entered by this Court on October 15, 1996, Judge
Recht was assigned to sit as a member of the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals
commencing October 15, 1996, and continuing until further order of this Court.Footnote: 4
Johnny G. is completely deaf, whereas Lisa K. has 40% hearing in one ear.Footnote: 5
The petition avers that DHHR believes the father of Jonathan G. was responsible for
his head injuries.Footnote: 6
The order reflecting the circuit court's findings at the December 28, 1990, hearing
was entered nunc pro tunc on May 8, 1991. Footnote: 7
The record does not provide any additional information regarding the nature of the
two opposing philosophies referenced in this letter.Footnote: 8
The Stems had previously filed a document on November 11, 1992, styled "Notice
of Appearance," which indicated that Scott A. Ollar was their counsel of record.Footnote: 9
West Virginia Code § 49-6-5 deals with the disposition of neglected or abused
children. West Virginia Code § 49-6-8 concerns foster care review that is to be initiated by
the state, and provides that the circuit court shall give notice to and permit the appearance
of foster parents in such review proceedings.Footnote: 10
The natural parents submitted a joint memorandum, arguing that the provisions of
West Virginia Code §§ 49-6-5 and -8 provide no authority for the involvement of foster
parents. They further argued that "intervention by the foster parents would compromise the
ability of the State to provide a meaningful improvement period."Footnote: 11
This order followed a motion for reconsideration filed by the Stems in which they
informed the circuit court of this Court's holding in Bowens v. Maynard, 174 W. Va. 184,
324 S.E.2d 145 (1984), that "a party [that] has lawful physical custody of a child, . . . has the
right . . . to be heard in any proceeding that concerns the child." Id. at 184-85, 324 S.E.2d
at 145, Syl. Pt. 1, in part. Footnote: 12
As grounds for their petition for contempt against DHHR, the natural parents
averred, inter alia:
1. That the undisputed evidence in the instant case shows more
particularly, since October, 1992, that the natural parents herein
have made great improvements and advances in acquiring those
skills and attributes needed to become good, caring, and
nurturing parents, and although these parents may not as of yet
be ready for reunification with their infant child, they have
demonstrated to the Court that they have willingly cooperated
with DHHR in the development of a reasonable family case plan
designed to lead to reunification and that they have responded
and followed through with such a plan of action and other
rehabilitative efforts through social, medical, mental health and
other rehabilitative agencies . . . .
2. That the aforesaid efforts of the natural parents were not the
result of any family case plan prepared or advocated by DHHR,
but were the result of intervention by the Court at the insistence
of their respective counsel when the Court was made aware of
the underlying flaw in the manner in which DHHR was
attempting to seek rehabilitation and reunification for this
family, to-wit, not using counselors and personnel trained in
sign and the culture of the deaf community; and that once this
flaw was corrected and appropriately trained personnel and
agencies intervened, great improvement was noted by both
natural parents as aforesaid.
3. That as a matter of law, there exists sufficient evidence
before the Court to justify a finding that "there is a reasonable
likelihood that the conditions of neglect or abuse can be
substantially corrected by the natural parents herein."
4. That despite such improvement by the natural parents herein,
DHHR has directed a course of conduct against said parents to
prevent them from engaging in any meaningful improvement
period by restricting visitation between the parents and their
child, and by advocating for termination of their parental rights,
even in the face of the improvements aforesaid. Footnote: 13
Due to the fact that DHHR and the prosecuting attorney were in disagreement
regarding the issue of termination of parental rights and because the prosecuting attorney
perceived the existence of a potential conflict of interest with regard to her continued
representation of DHHR, see infra note 36, the prosecuting attorney requested that the
Attorney General's office be involved in these proceedings to represent DHHR. An attorney
from the Attorney General's office appeared at the May 7, 1993, contempt proceedings on
behalf of DHHR. Even after the prosecuting attorney sought the involvement of the Attorney
General because of the contempt proceedings, the prosecutor continued to appear and take
an active role in these proceedings. From the contempt proceedings forward, it appears that
the Attorney General's office represented DHHR and the prosecutor appeared on behalf of
the State's interest. DHHR states in its brief to this Court, that "at hearings before and after
the contempt hearing, the role of the prosecutor was unclear." Footnote: 14
The case had been before the circuit court for more than two and one-half years at
this time. We observe, additionally that it had been two years and four months since an
adjudication of abuse, even though the statute in effect at that time provided that a post-
adjudicatory improvement period could not exceed twelve months. See W. Va. Code § 49-6-
5(c) (1992) .Footnote: 15
Dr. Kradel notes in his report that "[i]t is Mr. Slaughter's opinion that if [D]HHR
would have built a solid treatment program based on that original confession [to him] that
this matter would have been successfully resolved with the family being much closer to
reunification than it is now." Footnote: 16
By the State, we are referring to the prosecuting attorney. At times, the prosecutor
appears to have continued to represent DHHR and at other times, the prosecutor seems to
have represented her own views with regard to the issues herein. Footnote: 17
The circuit court concurred with the State's assessment of the evidence, stating in
its order that "if the State had rested its case, upon motion of any other party, a motion of
directed verdict against the State would have issued." Footnote: 18
The Stems sought to have the circuit court set aside its order entered in connection
with the termination hearing and further sought a stay of all proceedings.Footnote: 19
The record indicates that the circuit court advised the parties to confer prior to the
termination proceedings for the express purpose of resolving the role that the Stems' counsel
should have at the termination hearing. Footnote: 20
Review hearings were held before the circuit court on September 25, 1994;
November 17, 1994; April 19, 1995; and August 14, 1995. Footnote: 21
The circuit court did permit the Stems' counsel to state his position with regard to
effecting the reunification of Jonathan G. with his natural parents and also with regard to
immediate removal of Jonathan G. from the Stems following the termination hearing. See
infra note 32.Footnote: 22
The current statutory definition of "custodian" is identical to the one set forth in the
1981 statute relied upon in Bowens. See 174 W. Va. at 186, 324 S.E.2d at 147; cf. W. Va.
Code § 49-1-5(5) (1996). Footnote: 23
The current version of this statute reads: "In any proceeding pursuant to the
provisions of this article, the party or parties having custodial or other parental rights or
responsibilities to the child shall be afforded a meaningful opportunity to be heard, including
the opportunity to testify and to present and cross-examine witnesses." W. Va. Code § 49-6-
2(c) (1996).Footnote: 24
Custodian was defined under Minnesota law as "'any person who is under a legal
obligation to provide care and support for a minor or who is in fact providing care and
support for a minor.'" In re C.J., 481 N.W.2d at 863 (quoting Minn. Stat. § 260.015, subd.
14 (1990)).Footnote: 25
The Minnesota statute delineating who has the right to participate in termination
proceedings provided: "A child who is the subject of a petition, and the parents, guardian,
or lawful custodian of the child have the right to participate in all proceedings on a petition."
In re C.J., 481 N.W.2d at 863 (quoting Minn. Stat. § 260.155, subd. 1a (1987)). Footnote: 26
The foster parents participated through counsel, as though a party to the proceedings,
and "[t]he trial court did not confine Hickle's [their counsel's] role to presenting evidence
relevant to the termination issue." 834 S.W.2d at 768. The foster parents' counsel presented
evidence of their education and their affection for the child, which evidence, the appellate
court stated, "had nothing to do with whether one or more grounds existed for termination
of . . . parental rights. . . ." Id. Footnote: 27
The statute, in its entirety, states:
Where a child has been placed with a foster parent, with
relatives or with other persons who are able and willing to
permanently integrate the child into the family by adoption, if
the court finds that it is in the best interests of the child, the
court may provide the opportunity for such foster parent,
relative or other person to present evidence for the consideration
of the court.
1985 Mo. Laws § 211.464.Footnote: 28
The natural parents in this case aver that they were improperly and unknowingly sent
to a psychologist, whose report was then used to compare them to the foster parents. Footnote: 29
Since it joined in the State's motion to withdraw the termination petition, we find
the DHHR's assertion of this assignment of error to be without a proper procedural basis. Footnote: 30
It is well-documented that where there is no acknowledgement of abuse nor an
acknowledgement of a failure to protect, it generally does not bode well for future
improvement from a therapeutic perspective.Footnote: 31
We observe additionally that Dr. Kradel, in his February 3, 1994, report, refers to
an interview with psychologist Stephen Townsend on January 24, 1994, during which Mr.
Townsend told Dr. Kradel "that Lisa had 'signed' to him that she shook the baby." Footnote: 32
The only concerns raised by the guardian ad litem pertained to his concurrence with
the recommendation of Dr. Kradel and Mr. Henderson that Jonathan G. be removed from the
Stems and placed in another foster home with individuals trained in signing and that the
reunification efforts be expedited. While there was discussion at the conclusion of the
termination proceedings regarding the removal of Jonathan G. from the Stems, this removal
was apparently never effectuated.
The guardian ad litem's position with regard to this appeal is that the identity of
Jonathan G.'s perpetrator of harm was identified and as such, cannot be relied upon as the
basis for reversing the termination proceeding. Furthermore, the guardian ad litem observes
that the Stems assented to the return of Jonanthan G. to his natural parents during the
October 23, 1995, hearing, stating that they were only seeking visitation rights. With regard
to visitation rights, the guardian ad litem takes the position that the Stems do not have
standing to seek such rights. Footnote: 33
To be fair to the prosecuting attorney, she did proceed to draft and file a petition for
termination, even when she thought that reunification efforts had not been fully and properly
attempted by DHHR. Moreover, she, along with counsel from the Attorney General's office,
sought a termination of parental rights during the two-day hearing that occurred on June 21
and 22, 1994. Footnote: 34
While Manchin supports the prosecutor's role in terms of a traditional lawyer/client
relationship, we acknowledged that the Attorney General, as discussed in that decision, has
no law enforcement powers. Id. at 787, 296 S.E.2d at 917. In contrast, the prosecutor
clearly has law enforcement powers. Moreover, the same statute that directs the prosecutor
to assist in the prosecution of child abuse and neglect laws also authorizes the prosecutor "to
investigate reported cases of suspected child abuse and neglect for possible criminal
activity." W. Va. Code § 49-6-10. These investigatory and enforcement rights are clearly
outside the scope of the traditional lawyer/client relationship. Thus, the prosecutor, unlike
the Attorney General, clearly has a dual role in the area of civil/criminal abuse and neglect
cases that requires him or her to provide representation to those seeking to file child abuse
and neglect complaints and also to investigate and enforce child abuse and neglect laws of
this State. Thus, the prosecutor's authority is more limited by the client's position within the
civil arena of abuse and neglect proceedings as compared to the criminal side of such
proceedings. Footnote: 35
Indeed, the prosecuting attorney stated at the oral argument of this case that she had
no client and was appearing in connection with DHHR's allegations in its brief concerning
her commission of unethical conduct. Footnote: 36
Among additional reasons cited by the prosecutor for the involvement of the
Attorney General was a potential conflict of interest in the event criminal contempt
proceedings were brought against DHHR, and violation of Rules 1.2(d) and 1.6(b) of the
Rules of Professional Responsibility. Given the parameters of this appeal, we do not further
discuss the ethical concerns raised in conjunction with the prosecutor's representation of
DHHR. Footnote: 37
The circuit court ordered that the petition for contempt be sent to the office of the
Attorney General for assignment of counsel.Footnote: 38
Among the problems the prosecutor encountered was the discovery that, while
DHHR represented to the circuit court that it was providing the natural parents with
appropriate counseling services, the services were often rendered inadequate because
considerations necessary for providing effective services to the hearing impaired, such as
interpreters and special technological devices, were either not consistently provided or were
not being utilized. The prosecutor, in her brief, states:
What was very troubling to the State at the time and
remains so today is that the Romney School for the Deaf is the
state facility for deaf persons. It is where these parents were
educated. For the Department not to know about specialized
signing services that could have helped this family earlier is
incomprehensible. Departmental workers claimed that they
looked for deaf services in this area and found none. But within
an approximate twenty-five mile radius of Berkeley County
there exist more than twenty agencies and programs who
directly deal with deaf parents who need the skills that the
Circuit Court ordered.
The prosecutor states additionally that DHHR "refused to accept the progress reports
of the signing counselors" and that "[t]here is some indication that they [DHHR] were not
paying the bills of these counselors."
The prosecutor further indicates that upon her review of records and communication
with service providers, she discovered facts that differed greatly from what she was being
told by DHHR. She learned that Jonathan G. "was not being taught to communicate with his
parents, especially his father as ordered by the Court." She discovered that with regard to
the natural parents' visitation, the foster parents were being given priority as to the time
periods they were permitted to spend with Jonathan G. Yet another discovery was that the
Stems maintain they had been promised from almost the time of placement that Jonathan G.
would be eligible for adoption by them. In addition, the prosecutor states she learned "that
if certain witnesses were called to the witness stand, that they might commit perjury to
further the case."
Footnote: 39 Case plans can also be required by a circuit court in the pre-adjudicatory phase pursuant to West Virginia Code § 49-6-2(b), when an improvement period is granted. Footnote: 40 In reviewing the record, Dr. Kradel's notes also refer to numerous DHHR service plans.Footnote: 41 The length of time that the child has remained with the foster parents is a significant factor to consider in determining this issue.
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