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In the INTEREST OF M.H., Minor Child, J.O., Mother, Appellant.
A mother appeals the termination of her parental rights to her minor child pursuant to Iowa Code section 232.116(1)(f) and (l ) (2018). Her argument on appeal is limited to her statements of disagreement with the juvenile court's conclusions “that the child cannot be returned to the custody of the mother as provided in section 232.102” and her “prognosis indicates that the child will not be able to be returned to the custody of the [mother] within a reasonable period of time considering the child's age and need for a permanent home.” See Iowa Code § 232.116(1)(f)(4), (l )(3). The mother provides no facts, argument, or analysis in support of her statements of disagreement. Her failure to do so waives error. See Iowa R. App. P. 6.903(2)(g)(3); see also In re C.B., 611 N.W.2d 489, 492 (Iowa 2000) (“A broad, all encompassing argument is insufficient to identify error in cases of de novo review.”); Hyler v. Garner, 548 N.W.2d 864, 876 (Iowa 1996) (“[W]e will not speculate on the arguments [a party] might have made and then search for legal authority and comb the record for facts to support such arguments.”); Inghram v. Dairyland Mut. Ins. Co., 215 N.W.2d 239, 240 (Iowa 1974) (“To reach the merits of this case would require us to assume a partisan role and undertake the appellant's research and advocacy. This role is one we refuse to assume.”). Although we acknowledge termination-of-parental-rights appeals are expedited and the opportunity for briefing is abbreviated, see generally Iowa R. App. P. 6.201, the mother's position is not adequately formulated to facilitate our review. Consequently, we affirm the termination of her parental rights.
AFFIRMED.
MULLINS, Judge.
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Docket No: No. 18-1993
Decided: January 23, 2019
Court: Court of Appeals of Iowa.
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FindLaw’s Learn About the Law features thousands of informational articles to help you understand your options. And if you’re ready to hire an attorney, find one in your area who can help.
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