A.S., the Father v. Department of Children & Families, J.A., and Guardian Ad Litem Program

The case before us arises from the termination of parental rights of A.S., the father. We find the trial court erred in finding that A.S. abandoned his child and that termination of his parental rights was the least restrictive means available. Accordingly, we reverse and remand for further proceedings.

Facts

A.S, and the mother of J.A., the child, had a brief relationship, during which the mother became pregnant but was uncertain as to the father. A.S. knew the mother was pregnant and that he might be the father. Still, he did not believe the mother when she notified him and had no further…