Chapter 23 - Diane petitions again
After release, Diane petitioned for limited grandparent visitation.
Her lawyer argued:
She completed custody term.
In treatment.
No longer denied conduct entirely.
Family relationship historically significant.
Daniel and I opposed.
Noah still showed fear when hearing her name.
Therapist did not recommend contact.
Court appointed? Avoid evaluator-heavy. Could rely on records and therapist limited statement, but therapist shouldn't make legal decision. Judge considers best interest and statutory threshold.
Diane’s position also faced constitutional deference to fit parents.
Daniel and I were united.
Court denied petition without prejudice during probation.
No supervised visits ordered merely because she was grandmother.
Diane appealed?
No.
Her lawyer advised weak prospects.
Then she sent Daniel a letter through counsel.
Allowed because not direct contact with Noah.
This one was different.
I did things to Noah that I would not accept if another person had done them.
Daniel read that line twice.
Then:
I still believe children need discipline. I no longer believe fear proves discipline is working.
Not perfect.
No demand for forgiveness.
Then:
I am sorry I taught you the same thing when you were small.
Daniel cried.
Not because apology fixed childhood.
Because she named it.
He did not write back immediately.
Weeks later:
I received your letter. I am not ready for more.
May you like
That was all.
Behavior-based distance.
