In re T.W.

FARRELL, Associate Judge:

This is an appeal from a decision of the trial court terminating a parent and child relationship pursuant to D.C.Code § 16-2359(f) (1989). “The legal touchstone in any proceeding to terminate parental rights is the best interest of the child, and that interest is controlling.” In re A.B.E., 564 A.2d 751, 754 (D.C.1989); D.C.Code § 16-2353(a). This court “may reverse a trial court’s determination of where the best interests of the child lie only when the judge has abused his discretion.” In re D.R.M., 570 A.2d 796, 803 (D.C.1990). Before ordering termination of the…