A New York appellate court has upheld the termination of parental rights for Greg C. and Jacqueline C. regarding their children, Romeo C. and Jaden C. The decision, issued on June 26, 2026, by the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, affects the family’s future and the children's well-being. The ruling emphasizes the importance of parental compliance with court mandates in custody cases.
The case, documented under docket number 474 CAF 24-02039, began when the Ontario County Department of Social Services filed a petition to terminate the parental rights of Greg and Jacqueline. The Family Court initially ruled in favor of the petition, leading to the appeals by both parents.
Background
Greg C. and Jacqueline C. are the parents of Romeo C. and Jaden C. The Ontario County Department of Social Services became involved with the family due to concerns about the children's welfare. Following an investigation, the department filed a petition under Social Services Law § 384-b, which allows for the termination of parental rights under certain circumstances.
The Family Court held hearings to assess the situation and determine whether the parents were fit to retain their parental rights. The court found that the parents had not complied with the necessary services and requirements set forth in prior rulings. This led to the decision to terminate their rights, which both parents subsequently appealed.
The Ruling
The Appellate Division upheld the Family Court's decision to terminate the parental rights of both Greg and Jacqueline. The court ruled that Jacqueline's appeal was dismissed because she failed to appear at the dispositional hearing, despite being warned that her absence could lead to a default ruling. The court stated, "the mother did not appear at the hearing and, although her attorney was present on both days, the attorney declined to participate."
As for Greg, the court found substantial evidence supporting the termination of his parental rights. The ruling noted, "there is a sound and substantial basis in the record to support the court's determination that petitioner established by a preponderance of the evidence that the father failed to engage in services and violated numerous terms of the suspended judgment." The judges involved in the decision included Whalen, Lindley, Ogden, Nowak, and Delconte.
Impact
This ruling has significant implications for the children involved. By terminating parental rights, the court has opened the door for the possibility of adoption in the future. Although Romeo and Jaden are not currently seeking adoption, the termination preserves that option and supports their stability and well-being. The court emphasized that "termination of respondents' parental rights preserves that possibility in the future as well as their placements and the normalcy they have achieved."
The ruling also reinforces the legal principle that noncompliance with court orders can lead to severe consequences, including the loss of parental rights. This case serves as a reminder of the responsibilities parents have when involved in custody proceedings and the potential ramifications of failing to meet those obligations.
What's Next
While the appellate court's decision is final, there may be limited options for appeal. The court filing did not indicate whether the parents plan to seek further legal recourse. Additionally, there are no related cases pending at this time. The focus now shifts to the future well-being of Romeo and Jaden as they navigate life without their parents' legal rights.