In the Matter of Jones

Respondent, Bertha Mae Jones, appeals as of right from the termination of her parental rights in her three sons, Charles, James, and Jermaine. Her parental rights in all three of her sons were terminated in a consolidated hearing.

On appeal, respondent claims that the trial judge erred by failing to advise her of her right to have counsel present at the preliminary hearing at which a neglect petition was first authorized.

In the present case, the preliminary hearing was held on July 28, 1981. At the hearing, the probate judge read the allegations in the complaint to respondent. He asked her if…