Los Angeles County Department of Children & Family Services v. William C.

Opinion

BAXTER, J.

Under certain circumstances, found by a preponderance of evidence, and indicating that a minor child is bereft of care or support by a parent or guardian, or has suffered or risks actual or threatened serious injury, illness, emotional damage, or sexual abuse because of a custodial parent’s or guardian’s inadequacy, neglect, or mistreatment, the child may be adjudged a dependent of the juvenile court. (Welf. & Inst. Code, § 300.) A dependency adjudication is a preliminary step that allows the juvenile court, within specified limits, to assert supervision over the endangered…