In re L.M. CA4/2

I.

INTRODUCTION

R.M. (Father) appeals from jurisdiction and disposition findings and orders

entered on November 21, 2023, in which the juvenile court found jurisdiction over

Father’s daughters, L.M. (7 years old) and G.M. (6 years old), under Welfare and 1 Institutions Code, section 300, subdivisions (b) and (c), and ordered the girls removed

from Father’s sole care. Father contends there was insufficient evidence to support the

jurisdiction and disposition findings and orders. Father also argues the juvenile court 2 erred in finding that ICWA does not apply and requests this court to vacate that finding.

We conclude there was substantial evidence supporting the jurisdiction and

disposition orders, and affirm the orders and judgment, but order vacated the finding that

ICWA does not apply and remand for further proceedings.

1 Unless otherwise noted, all statutory references are to the Welfare and Institutions Code. Because ICWA uses the term “Indian,” we do so on occasion as well, not out of disrespect, but because of the need for clarity and consistency, even though we recognize that other terms, such as “Native American” or “indigenous” are preferrable. 2 As used in…