In re Haylynn C
IL Appellate Court 5th District March 2, 2026 AUTO-1795444163
Illinois appellate court affirms termination of parental rights for mother with substance abuse issues
Decision highlights the state's compelling interest in protecting the best interests of the child

This case involves the termination of parental rights for Haylynn C., a mother with a history of substance abuse issues. The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) filed a petition to terminate Haylynn's parental rights after she failed to complete her court-ordered rehabilitation program and demonstrate her ability to provide a safe and stable home for her child. The appellate court affirmed the lower court's decision, finding that DCFS had presented clear and convincing evidence that termination was in the best interests of the child. The court emphasized the state's compelling interest in protecting the well-being of children and noted that Haylynn's continued substance abuse issues and inability to maintain a suitable living environment justified the termination of her parental rights.