A.S. v. Randolph Cnty. Cir. Ct.

Summary

The concurring opinion agrees that the habeas petition must be dismissed because it was procedurally and substantively flawed. It emphasizes that the juvenile was entitled to appointed defense counsel at every stage of the family-in-need-of-services proceedings, and that the circuit court failed to advise her of that right, inquire about counsel, or appoint counsel. Justice Wood also distinguishes defense counsel from an attorney ad litem and expresses concern about the public defender's failure to represent juveniles in such cases.