Matter of Sean CJ Ivan W. (Danica W.)
This case concerns an appeal by the mother, Danica W., from an order terminating her parental rights to her child, Noel Sean CJ Ivan W. The Family Court, Queens County, found that the mother permanently neglected the child and transferred guardianship and custody to Little Flower Children and Family Services of New York and the Commissioner of Social Services of the City of New York for adoption. The Appellate Division, Second Department, affirmed the Family Court's order, concluding that the petitioner demonstrated diligent efforts to strengthen the parent-child relationship. However, the mother failed to adequately plan for the child's future despite these efforts. The appellate court also agreed that terminating parental rights and freeing the child for adoption was in the child's best interests, rejecting a suspended judgment.