In Re the Welfare of Houts

Petitioners, Charlie L. and Patricia Houts, seek review by certiorari of a juvenile court order permanently depriving them of their son and daughter. At the time the order was entered their son was 3% years of age and their daughter 6 months of age. The controlling question presented is whether the hearing, resulting in the order of permanent deprivation, conformed to due process requirements. We hold it did not and reverse for a new trial.

In referring to the evidence in our statement of the case, we do so notwithstanding that much of it was received in the absence of Mr. and Mrs. Houts under…