Jose Chacon v. Arkansas Department of Human Services and Minor Children

Summary

This dissent argues that the appellate court should have reviewed the father's claim that he was denied statutory counsel and constitutional due process during dependency-neglect proceedings leading to termination of his parental rights. It contends that the claim was adequately raised during the termination hearing and therefore was not procedurally barred. The dissent criticizes the treatment of an incarcerated biological father whom the Department allegedly failed to inform about the proceedings.