In re J.S.

Citations

• 2024 Ohio 3310

Syllabus

Adjudication disposition bifurcation Juv.R. 34(A) R.C. 2151.35(B)(1) permanent custody best interests of child CCDCFS R.C. 2151.414 clear and convincing evidence manifest weight sufficiency of the evidence. Judgment affirmed. The record is clear that there was a definite bifurcation of the proceedings, as well as consent by Mother to hold the hearings on the same day. Mother was aware, prior to the hearing, of the court's intent to address both adjudication and disposition on the same day and chose not to attend the hearings. Additionally, Mother was given an opportunity to present witnesses and any other evidence regarding disposition. While sufficiency and manifest weight are distinct legal concepts, a finding that a judgment is supported by the manifest weight of the evidence necessarily includes a finding that sufficient evidence supports the judgment. Here, there is clear and convincing evidence in the record to support the juvenile court's determination that permanent custody to CCDCFS is in the children's best interest. Therefore, the court's decision to grant permanent custody is not against the manifest weight of the evidence.