In the Matter of Bell

Respondents are the parents of four children born out of wedlock. Richard Bell, born March 19, 1981, is the youngest. Following a jury trial, Washtenaw County Probate Judge Loren W. Campbell ordered that respondents’ parental rights be terminated as to Richard Bell because of neglect. Respondents’ petitions for rehearing were denied. In this consolidated appeal, respondent Beatrice Bell appeals from the termination order as of right. Respondent Blackburn appeals by leave of this Court granted on October 5, 1983.

Parental rights may not be terminated unless the state proves by clear and…