In re D. Children
The Monroe County Department of Social Services sought Family Court approval for the voluntary transfer of custody of five children from the D. family. Following approval, the Family Court appointed Sally Moore as a guardian ad litem and later ordered the Department of Social Services to cooperate with her. The Director of the Department of Social Services appealed these orders, contending that the Family Court lacked jurisdiction after approving the initial voluntary transfer instrument. The appellate court agreed, ruling that the Family Court's jurisdiction under Social Services Law § 358-a terminated upon approval, and therefore, it lacked authority to appoint a guardian ad litem or compel cooperation with the CASA volunteer without a pending proceeding. The court reversed and vacated the Family Court's orders, emphasizing that any extension of judicial oversight in foster care matters must be legislatively granted.