Monterey County Department of Social Services v. Karen J.

Karen J. appeals an order terminating her parental rights to her children, Mario C. and Trisha C., under Civil Code 1 section 232, subdivision (a)(7). She argues on appeal that clear and convincing evidence does *602 not support the trial court’s findings; that reasonable reunification services were not provided her; and that the trial court failed to consider appointing counsel for the minors, in compliance with Civil Code section 237.5, subdivision (a), and her children were prejudiced by this failure. Although we conclude the trial court failed to comply with section 237.5, the error does not require reversal. Since we reject appellant’s additional claims of error, we will affirm the termination order.

Factual and Procedural Background

Mario C., was born on September 13, 1980; Trisha C. was born on October 27, 1982. They are the youngest of appellant’s five children, all of whom have been or currently are dependents of the Monterey County Juvenile Court. Appellant’s daughter Tabatha A. was ultimately freed for adoption in 1977; her daughter Michelle A.’s dependency was terminated when, at the age of 14, she married and had a child; James A. is in long-term foster…