In re J.H.K.

HUNTER, JR., Robert N., Judge.

On 18 September 2008, the trial court terminated respondent-father’s (“Mike’s”) parental rights pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 7B-llll(a)(l) and (6) (2007). Mike appeals the trial court’s order to this Court and contends, inter alia, that the trial court erred in conducting the termination of parental rights hearing when the minor children’s guardian ad litem (“GAL”) was not physically present. After careful review, we hold that the minor children’s appointed GAL should have attended the termination of parental rights hearing. We accordingly reverse and remand for…