In re Iris G. CA2/3

INTRODUCTION

Mother Genevieve S. appeals from the juvenile court’s jurisdictional finding under Welfare and Institutions Code1 section 300 and disposition order under section 361. We conclude that the court’s finding that Mother posed a substantial risk of harm to the children was not supported by substantial evidence. The record reflects that immediately following the single alcohol-related incident that led to this dependency proceeding, Mother independently sought professional help for her alcohol and substance abuse, and thereafter maintained her sobriety and properly cared for her children during the year prior to the section 300 jurisdiction hearing. There is no evidence showing that Mother’s behavior was likely to reoccur or that Mother was likely to endanger or abuse the children. We reverse the judgment and order because jurisdiction was not supported by substantial evidence.

FACTS AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND

Mother and her two children, eight-year-old Iris and seven-year-old Owen. reside with the children’s maternal grandmother. Owen’s biological father, Jesse (Father), has a good relationship with the children, who both consider him to be their father. Mother and the…