Hearing Results

Just wanted to give you a quick update on the hearing today. It was a very positive hearing today. Here are the highlights:

1. Maggie's attorney really showed her "bull-dog" side today and fought hard on Maggie's behalf. She presented 50 facts to back up her appeal to have rights terminated. Judge court ordered a hair-follicle drug test, which mom has never had to do before.
2. Corey, Maggie's CPS caseworker, was very impressive ~ didn't miss a beat...had an answer for every question, spoke with authority in regards to the case, and knew every aspect of the case inside and out. He presented a lot of facts and made it very clear that mother's rights should be terminated.
3. Patti, Maggie's CASA worker, provided our diary of Maggie's behavior after visit with mom, as well as all the testimony that she has gathered as the investigator on the case.
4. Judge asked mom lots of questions but mom had no answers. Mom was unable to back up one piece of information she provided.
5. Judge did not suspend visitations, however, did order that mom see a licensed therapist before another visit could take place. This therapist would meet with mom to determine if she should have any further visits. So, even though the visits weren't suspended, it doesn't mean that any further visits will take place.
6. Everyone on Maggie's side felt that had the therapy already taken place with mom and therapist, that rights would have been terminated today. However, the court has to be sure that every effort has been given to the mother to pass/fail every task given to her, before they will terminate rights.
7. No JURY TRIAL!!!! PTL! It will be a bench trial, which means it's all up to the judge.
8. Termination of Parental Rights (TPR) hearing is scheduled for March 16!

We are so thankful for all your prayers and support. It's not over and I'm sure there will still be a few more emotional roller coasters along the way, but we are confident that God is in control and that His will is being done.

Much love ~ Court, Michael & Maggie :)