In re M.D. and M.D.

Illinois Appellate Court
Civil Court
Abuse and Neglect
Citation
Case Number: 
2021 IL App (1st) 210595
Decision Date: 
Friday, September 3, 2021
District: 
1st Dist.
Division/County: 
Cook Co., 5th Div.
Holding: 
Affirmed.
Justice: 
HOFFMAN

Court found infant twins to be neglected based on injurious environment, and placed them in custody of DCFS. Respondent and the father of the infants had a history of domestic violence, including a physical altercation at hospital the day prior the birth of the infants; and they admit to a history of drug abuse. Respondent mother has 3 other children in DCFS care after finding of abuse and neglect.  Stipulated evidence presented at adjudication hearing supports a finding that mother breached her duty to ensure a safe nurturing shelter for the minors. Court did not abuse its discretion in denying mother's request for a continuance, as mother failed to show good cause for her absence and the need for continuance. (DELORT and CONNORS, concurring.)