The Texas Court of Appeals has upheld a lower court's decision to terminate a father's parental rights to his three children, citing concerns over substance abuse and domestic violence. The ruling affects the father, identified only as 'Father,' and his children: S.L.B., M.S.B., and M.A.B. Jr. The court's decision emphasizes the importance of children's safety and well-being in parental rights cases.

The case, titled In the Interest of S.L.B., M.S.B., and M.A.B., Jr., Children v. the State of Texas, was filed under docket number 04-26-00329-CV. The Texas Court of Appeals, 4th District in San Antonio, delivered its opinion on October 30, 2026. The court affirmed the trial court's ruling, which found that terminating Father’s parental rights was in the best interests of the children.

Background

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (the Department) became involved with the family after receiving reports of domestic violence and substance abuse. The Department provided family-based safety services (FBSS) for nearly two years, during which time both parents were referred to classes to address domestic violence issues. However, the mother did not attend the classes, and the father was discharged from his classes due to excessive absences.

During the FBSS period, both parents tested positive for drugs, with the father consistently testing positive for methamphetamine. After failing to comply with treatment recommendations and other requirements, the Department sought to remove the children from their parents' custody. On April 21, 2025, the Department filed a petition for removal and termination of parental rights if reunification was not achieved.

The trial court held a two-day bench trial in March 2026, where it heard testimony from various witnesses, including caseworkers and foster parents. On April 14, 2026, the court ordered the termination of Father’s parental rights, citing multiple statutory grounds under the Texas Family Code.

The Ruling

The Texas Court of Appeals, led by Justice Irene Rios, affirmed the trial court's decision. The court ruled that the evidence supported the trial court's finding that terminating Father’s parental rights was in the best interests of the children. The court noted, "Continued illegal drug use by the parent is conduct that jeopardizes parental rights and may be considered as establishing an endangering course of conduct."

Father appealed, arguing that the evidence was insufficient to support the trial court's findings. However, the court found that Father failed to challenge all independent grounds for termination, particularly the finding that he did not legitimate his paternity of M.A.B. The court stated, "An appellant must challenge all independent bases or grounds that fully support a judgment or appealable order." As such, the unchallenged finding was accepted as true, leading to the affirmation of the trial court's ruling.

Impact

This ruling underscores the court's commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of children in custody cases. It highlights the significant consequences that substance abuse and domestic violence can have on parental rights. The decision serves as a reminder that parents must actively engage in treatment and services to maintain their parental rights.

The ruling may set a precedent for future cases involving similar issues, reinforcing the importance of compliance with court-ordered services and the need for parents to demonstrate their ability to provide a safe environment for their children.

What's Next

Father has the option to appeal the ruling to a higher court, but details regarding any potential appeal were not available in the court filing. There are no related cases pending at this time.