Custody of a Minor

The mother appeals under G. L. c. 119, § 27, from an adjudication of the Salem District Court, finding that her son is a child in need of care and protection and awarding permanent custody of him to the Department of Social Services (department).

1. Trial on the petition was conducted under § 26 and concluded on December 10, 1981. The trial judge issued a decision on February 1, 1982, finding that the child was in need of care and protection and awarding custody of him to the department. On February 4, 1982, the mother filed a notice of appeal, claiming a trial de nova on the petition under §…