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Name: In re L.Y.L.
Case #: D039515
Opinion Date: 09/04/2002
Division: 1
Citation: 101 Cal.App.4th 942
Summary

A parent has standing to assert the section 366.26, subdivision (c)(1)(E) sibling-relationship exception to the termination of parental rights to the same extent that the parent has standing to assert the subdivision (c)(1)(A)-(D) exceptions. A determination of each of these exceptions directly affects the parent’s interest in the relationship with the minor, and the parent is an aggrieved party to the determination. To show a substantial interference with a sibling relationship, the parent must show the existence of a significant sibling relationship, the severance of which would be detrimental to the child. Here, the parent did not sustain her burden of proof, since there was no evidence that severance of the relationship was detrimental to the minor. Even if the parent can show that severance of the relationship would be detrimental, the court must still weigh the benefits of continuing the relationship against the benefit to the child which adoption would provide.