D.M.G. Missouri Cases

Mother (D.M.G.) appealed the circuit court's judgment terminating her parental rights to Child (B.K.B.), arguing the court abused its discretion in finding termination to be in Child's best interest. She conceded that statutory grounds for termination existed due to her drug addiction, frequent incarceration, and child endangerment conviction, but contended that recent compliance with reunification services should have led to progressive visitation. The appellate court affirmed the circuit court's judgment, finding no abuse of discretion, as the best interest findings were supported by substantial evidence of Mother's extensive history of abuse and neglect, and the lack of an existing relationship with Child.