Jensen D. v. State, Dept. of Health & Social Services, Office of Children's Services

MAASSEN, Justice.

I. INTRODUCTION

A mother appeals the superior court's decision to terminate her parental rights to her seven-year-old daughter. The mother moved to represent herself in the middle of trial; on appeal she contends that the superior court abused its discretion when it denied her request on grounds that she lacked knowledge of the legal process, was unable to regulate her behavior in the courtroom, and could not view the case objectively.

We conclude that the record supports the court's decision that the mother was unable to act with the courtroom decorum necessary for…