Garibaldi v. Dietz

When the State seeks to terminate parental rights the probate court must first determine whether the parent is fit or unfit. Dietz v. Bevell, 276 Ark. 500, 637 S.W.2d 555 (1982). Only if the parent is found unfit does the court then address the issue of the best interest of the child. Bevell, supra. A finding of unfitness must be supported by specific findings of fact. Bush v. Dietz, 284 Ark. 191, 680 S.W.2d 704 (1984). The facts supporting a finding of unfitness must be shown by clear and convincing evidence. Bush, supra; A.B. v. Arkansas Social Services, 273 Ark. 261, 620 S. W.2d 271 (1981).