In Re Sara D.

THAXTER, Acting P.J.

In this case of first impression, we conclude that before appointment of a guardian ad litem for a parent in a Welfare and Institutions Code section 300 [1] proceeding, the parent's right to due process requires an informal hearing and an opportunity for the parent to be heard. The failure to provide the parent with an opportunity to be heard in this case requires reversal of the jurisdictional and dispositional orders.

A petition was filed on September 17, 1999, alleging that Sara D., born in September 1993, came within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court pursuant to section 300, subdivisions (b) and (c). Count I alleged Sara's mother, appellant Taylor D., was unable to control Sara's extreme behavior, placing Sara at risk of serious harm or illness. It also alleged Taylor's home was considered a health and safety hazard as a result of a visit on September 16, 1999, and Taylor allegedly suffered from a bipolar disorder and personality disorder requiring various prescription medications rendering her unable to care for Sara. Sara's father, Louis D., allegedly failed to maintain a relationship with Sara and failed to protect the child from the neglect of…