In re M.A. CA4/1

I.

INTRODUCTION

Connie B. and Michael A. appeal from the judgment terminating their parental

rights to their son, M.A., and daughter, L.A. Connie and Michael contend that the trial

court erred in declining to apply the beneficial relationship exception to termination of

parental rights (Welf. & Inst. Code, § 366.26, subd. (c)(1)(B)(i))1. We affirm the

judgment.

II.

FACTUAL AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND

A. General family background

Connie and Michael are the parents of M.A. (now 5) and L.A (now 3). Connie

first tried alcohol at age six, began smoking marijuana at age 17, and began using

methamphetamine at age 20. Connie, who is now approximately 30 years old, reported

using methamphetamine daily during a period of time while she was in her 20s.

Michael was convicted of a felony drug charge in 2004. In 2006, he was

convicted of charges involving possession and sales of marijuana. He served a two-year

prison term.

Unless otherwise stated, all subsequent statutory references are to the Welfare and Institutions Code.

2 In July 2005, a referral alleging that Connie was unable to care for M.A. and

L.A.'s older sibling, K.Y.,2 was substantiated after Connie…