In re N. H. (Juvenile)

Summary

The Supreme Court of Vermont upheld the juvenile court's adjudication that N.H. was a child in need of care or supervision, holding that the word 'parents' in the statutory definition does not require proof that both parents participated in the abuse. It nonetheless vacated the disposition transferring custody and guardianship to the Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services, because the father had not been shown unfit or demonstrably incapable of providing an appropriate home and the Act permits separation from parents only when necessary for the child's welfare or public safety. The cause was remanded solely to place custody with the father on terms the juvenile court sets. No separate writings were filed.