In re Richard S.
On March 29, 2007, the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency (the Agency) petitioned on the infant minor's behalf, alleging Richard and Adriana (together the parents) suffered from developmental disabilities that prevented them from providing adequate care for him. Both parents needed assistance in caring for themselves. Additionally, Adriana suffered from cerebral palsy and used a walker, Richard had difficulty managing his anger, and they had problems with hygiene. The court ordered the minor detained. Subsequently, it found the allegations of the petition true, declared the minor a dependent child of the juvenile court, placed him in foster care and ordered the parents to comply with services.
The court opined this case differed from most juvenile dependency cases because of the parents' disabilities. The court noted the challenges the parents faced and found they had made substantive progress. It stated: "And I do think that there is a substantial probability of return provided that extraordinary efforts are undertaken." The court ordered continuing services and set the matter for an 18 month hearing.
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