In Re Brittany H.
David J. v. Evette H.
Opinion
Opinion
Best, J.
The Case
On June 18, 1985, David J. and Deborah (Debbie) J. filed a petition (action No. 331205-5) for the independent adoption of Brittany H. The petition alleged that Evette H. (Evette) and Kevin O. were the natural parents of Brittany and would consent to the adoption. Following an attempt by Evette to remove Brittany from their custody, the J.’s obtained an order restraining the removal of the child from their home. On October 25, 1985, following a hearing, the Fresno County Superior Court granted temporary custody of Brittany to the J.’s.
On November 18, 1985, the J.’s filed a petition (action No. 338929-3) requesting that they be appointed the legal guardians of Brittany.
On May 1, 1986, the J.’s filed a petition (action No. 347036-6) pursuant to Civil Code section 232, subdivision (a)(1), to have Brittany declared free from the custody and control of her natural parents. It was stipulated by counsel for the J.’s, Evette, and the Department of Social Services that hearing on this petition could proceed on that same date, May 1, 1986, without objection. The clerk’s minutes reflect the three actions were ordered consolidated. Trial of the consolidated actions…