In Re Helen J.

J.Linda J. and Anton J. (“citees”) are the natural parents of the five minors involved in this proceeding under section 232, subdivision (b) of the Civil Code. The children, born between April 1963, and July 1967, were taken from their home January 1968, by welfare authorities when they were found in bad physical condition and without adult supervision. They were adjudged dependent children on January 11, 1968. (Welf. & Inst. Code, § 600.) Medical examinations of the children disclosed that Anton III, about 3½ years old, had serious bums on his forearms. Josef and Jonathan, twins of about 2¥x years, were suffering from intestinal problems associated with malnutrition.

The children were placed in foster homes. Their status as dependent children was renewed annually, the last time on January 4, 1971. On May 17, 1971, in order to allow for their permanent adoption, the County of Los Angeles Department of Adoptions (“county”) petitioned under section 232.9 to have the children declared free from parental custody and control. On September 21, 1971, the court granted the petition. Findings of fact and conclusions of law were signed and filed September 22, 1971. The judgment…