In re Lucy M.
The only issue in this appeal is whether a Marsden hearing should have been held at the conclusion of a permanency planning hearing under Welfare and Institutions Code section 366.26. Nikki D., the mother of minor Lucy M., has appealed from the order terminating her parental rights, asserting that she should have had a Marsden hearing after she expressed dissatisfaction with her court-appointed counsel. She contends the failure to hold this hearing warrants reversal of the order.
We affirm the order. Nikki waited too long to complain about her lawyer. And even if the court should have stopped, held a Marsden hearing, and appointed new counsel for her, Nikki was not prejudiced. The proceedings were over, and there was nothing a new attorney could have done going forward.
Comments on In re Lucy M.