Mark G. v. John G.

*588Opinion

RICHMAN, J.

INTRODUCTION

The difficult question ultimately presented by this case is whether a four-year-old developmentally delayed, possibly autistic child should be kept under the guardianship of his ex-convict uncle and his wife, who both have a history of substance abuse, or whether he should be returned to his father, who appears to be mentally ill. The issue before this court, however, is a procedural one, which does not resolve that question.

John G., the father of Christian G.1 (Chris), appeals after the probate court appointed John’s brother, Mark G., and Mark’s wife, Tina, as…