Matter of Naila P. (Althea P.)

Holding The Appellate Division reversed the Family Court’s denial of the mother’s motion to modify the order of fact-finding and disposition. The court held that the mother was entitled to a suspended judgment and vacatur of the neglect finding based on her lack of prior history, compliance with services, and the child’s best interests.

The court’s words

the mother had no prior child protective history; the record demonstrates the mother's compliance with services, medication, and therapy

2026 NY Slip Op 05540, at the official text

a suspended judgment leading to vacatur of the neglect finding was in the child's best interests because the mother would have access to employment opportunities in childcare

2026 NY Slip Op 05540, at the official text