In re Z.L. CA4/1

BACKGROUND

When Z.L. was born in April 2012, she and Angelica tested positive for

methamphetamine. Angelica admitted a history of methamphetamine use dating from her

teenage years1 but denied using drugs during pregnancy. She was on probation for possessing

a controlled substance for sale and simple possession. She had little prenatal care. For the

foregoing reasons, the Agency filed a dependency petition. Z.L. was detained in the hospital

and then in a foster home. Social worker Monica DeVelasco was assigned to this case

throughout the proceedings.

Z.L. was the unplanned offspring of a short relationship. From the beginning of the

case, Angelica expressed frustration with and anger toward Z.L.'s father (the father). Angelica

said she had trouble bonding with Z.L., who reminded her of the father. Angelica said she

wanted to take care of Z.L. but did not know if she would be able to do so.

Angelica initially attributed the positive drug tests to others who smoked

methamphetamine in her presence. She later admitted using methamphetamine three times at

the end of her pregnancy. Four days after Z.L.'s birth, Angelica had a negative drug test. All

of her later…