Opinion ID: 2518840
Heading Depth: 4
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Jury trial at termination

Text: Alyssa argues that the trial court erred in denying her a jury trial at termination. We conclude that a jury trial is not required in a termination hearing for the same reasons it is not required in an adjudication hearing under Alyssa B.I. [22] First, the Alaska Constitution only preserves a jury trial for legal causes of action, not those which are equitable in nature, and [c]hild protection cases have historically been treated as matters of equity in Alaska. [23] Second, there is no due process right to a jury trial in CINA proceedings: Although [t]he private interest of a parent whose parental rights may be terminated . . . is of the highest magnitude, this interest must be balanced against the child's right to an adequate home and education and the state's interest in the child's welfare. Judges are well situated to make reliable findings in CINA cases, given their knowledge of and familiarity with the controlling law and the prior proceedings of the case. As for the government's interests, the department points out that jury trials in CINA proceedings could delay reunification or permanent placement, reduce judicial economy, increase the number of parents contesting adjudication instead of attempting to reach an agreement, and compromise the department's ability to maximize its resources.[ [24] ] We affirm the superior court's denial of a jury trial at termination.