Opinion ID: 2155126
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 6

Heading: Dependency Case Evidence

Text: Powell contends that the Family Court erred as a matter of law by adopting evidence from the dependency case that was subject to a preponderance of the evidence standard of proof when the termination of parental rights decision requires proof by clear and convincing evidence. Powell did not object to the court's procedure at trial. Now she argues that the trial judge should not have reconsidered the evidence from the dependency hearing, applied a higher evidentiary standard and concluded that all of the earlier evidence met that higher standard. In several prior opinions, we have recognized the continuum that begins with a dependency and neglect hearing and frequently evolves into and ends with a termination proceeding. [51] We have also observed that [w]hen a termination proceeding is commenced, the factual basis for terminating parental rights is found in the conduct that occurred from the time that child was placed in foster care until the State concluded that the efforts at reunification had failed. [52] This Court has never directly addressed this issue but other jurisdictions, recognizing the continuum of proceedings, have found that there is no error in using evidence presented during the dependency and neglect proceedings to support a finding by clear and convincing evidence that parental rights should be terminated. [53] We now hold that during a termination hearing, the Family Court may review or consider the record of previous relevant proceedings, even though they may have generated decisions based upon a preponderance of the evidence, provided the Family Court reconsiders the evidence under the higher clear and convincing standard. In this case, the record reflects the Family Court complied with that rule. Therefore, there was no error.