In Re Solomon L.

Brenda L. appeals from the judgment declaring her son, Solomon, free from her custody and control pursuant to Civil Code section 232, subdivisions (a)(2), (a)(3) and (a)(7). Brenda challenges the sufficiency of the evidence as to each of the court’s findings and contends the court abused its discretion by refusing to order the “least drastic alternative” of guardianship.

Findings under any subdivision of section 232 “must be made on the basis of clear and convincing evidence.” (In re Angelia P. (1981) 28 Cal.3d 908, 919 [ 171 Cal.Rptr. 637 , 623 P.2d 198 ].) We must review the record in the light most favorable to the judgment to determine whether it reveals substantial evidence, evidence which is reasonable, credible and of solid value, such that a reasonable trier of fact could find the termination of parental rights appropriate. (Id. at p. 924; In re Rico W. (1986) 179 Cal.App.3d 1169, 1173 [ 225 Cal.Rptr. 472 ].)

Because each ofL.’s contentions is grounded in an overall claim of insufficiency of the evidence, an extended rendition of the facts is in order.

Factual and Procedural Background

Brenda married her first husband in 1979 at age 18. Five months later their…