In the Interest of T.F., a Child v. the State of Texas

Summary

The Texas Court of Appeals, Second Appellate District, affirmed an order terminating the father’s parental rights to T.F. and awarding permanent managing conservatorship to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Applying Anders procedures, the court independently reviewed the record and concluded that the appeal presented no arguable grounds for relief; it also denied appointed counsel’s motion to withdraw.

Holdings

1. When an Anders brief satisfies the applicable requirements, the appellate court must independently examine the record, the Anders brief, and any pro se response to determine whether arguable grounds for appeal exist.
2. The appeal was frivolous because the record contained no arguable grounds that might support Father's appeal, and the trial court's order terminating Father's parental rights was affirmed.
3. Counsel's motion to withdraw was denied because counsel did not show good cause independent from her conclusion that the appeal was frivolous.

Questions Presented

1. Whether the record contained any arguable grounds supporting Father's appeal from the order terminating his parental rights.
2. Whether appointed appellate counsel demonstrated good cause to withdraw after concluding that the appeal was frivolous.

Disposition

affirmed