The Michigan Supreme Court is considering whether it is acceptable for a judge to visit a home before terminating parental rights.
An Otsego County judge terminated parental rights after visiting the home of a couple whose daughter had a chronic kidney disease.
Charles Kronzek is an attorney who represents parents in CPS cases. He said the Judge in essentially made himself a witness - which is concerning.
“The judge took him or herself out of the role of being neutral. Made themself a witness and made that part of a decision without the ability of an accused parent to confront him, cross-examine him, and so on.”
The appeals court found that the judge’s visit was not permissible, but upheld the termination of parental rights.
Both parties are expected to file briefs for the Supreme Court within 35 days.