In Re Michael W., (Jul. 28, 2000)

MEMORANDUM OF DECISION

On January 22, 1999, the Department of Children and Families ("DCF" or "petitioner") filed petitions to terminate parental rights concerning two children, Michael W. ("Michael") and Katherine J. (the "termination petitions"). Named as respondents in the petitions were Laurie J., mother; Michael W., father of Michael; and Michael D., also known as Sean D., father of Katherine.2 The termination petitions were subsequently amended, as discussed below.

Previously, on August 17, 1998, DCF had filed a petition alleging that Katherine had been neglected (the "neglect petition").…