C.M. v. Mobile DHR, July 10, 2026 “[I]f a child is not adopted following [TPR], the child will likely remain orphaned… That outcome does not serve the best interests of the child.” In years gone by, it was common practice for juvenile courts to …
What is Abandonment? A Quick Update from the Courts
Where Does a Parent's Responsibility Come From? Supreme Court, Ex Parte M.P. “Mere sand.” This is what Justice Bryan, in his dissenting opinion, calls this newly announced rule (as paraphrased): Unless a court has ordered a parent to pay child …
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Foster Parents Have a Right to be Represented Legally
A Common Myth Told to Foster Parents If someone tells you that you don't need to hire an attorney, that may be just the time to consult with one. Too often foster parents who feel misled or unheard in the foster care system are advised or …
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What Happens When Foster Parents are Left Out
A.Q. v. Cullman County DHR A.Q. v. Cullman County DHR is a termination of parental rights case that should have been a slam dunk. Judge Matt Fridy writing for the Court of Civil Appeals recounted that “after [DHR worked] with the parents for about …
How to Best Participate in an ISP – What You Need to Know
What is an ISP The Individualized Service Plan (ISP) is an ordinary part of every child's case plan that comes into foster care. The Department facilitates the ISP meeting, and it usually takes place at the DHR Office (although there is no …
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What is a Guardian ad litem?
What Is a Guardian ad litem? In juvenile dependency cases, a Guardian ad litem is an attorney appointed by the Court to advocate for the child’s best interest.¹ When are Guardian ad litems Needed? According to the …
Brilliant Moves Foster Parents Don’t Know They Can Make
Foster Parents Can Intervene Foster parents can seek to become parties to the juvenile court case through intervention, but-- this isn't guaranteed. Currently in Alabama, a foster parent's right to intervene is within the sound discretion of the …
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A Bit of Advice for Foster Parents Regarding TPR
The Most Common Reason for Stalling TPR When adoption is “totally uncertain and strictly speculative,” TPR will not be upheld on appeal. This was the holding of T.W. v. Calhoun County DHR, 2023 WL 3768317 (Ala. Civ. App. June 2, 2023), an opinion …
Everything in a Home Study, All in One Place (2026)
Want to know everything about an adoption home study? This article by associate attorney Greg Locklier delves into the updates, requirements, and order of a home study in 2026. The components of a home study, or "Adoption Investigation", really …
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