In re Teresa N. CA4/1

DISCUSSION

A.N. contends the court abused its discretion by denying his request for a

continuance of the section 366.26 hearing. He asserts he made a good cause showing that

a continuance was appropriate. He also argues the court erred by not allowing him to

present an oral section 388 petition.

The juvenile court may grant a continuance only on a showing of good cause.

"[T]he court shall give substantial weight to a minor's need for prompt resolution of his or

her custody status . . . ." (§ 352, subd. (a).) "Continuances are discouraged [citation] and

we reverse an order denying a continuance only on a showing of an abuse of discretion

[citation]." (In re Ninfa S. (1998) 62 Cal.App.4th 808, 810-811.)

Once a court terminates reunification services, the focus of the proceedings shifts

from family reunification to the needs of the child for permanency and stability. (In re

Marilyn H. (1993) 5 Cal.4th 295, 309.) The court "must recognize this shift of focus in

determining the ultimate question before it, that is, the best interests of the child." (In re

Stephanie M. (1994) 7 Cal.4th 295, 317.)

3 A.N. has not shown an abuse of the court's discretion by the…