Booktree.ng_Forgotten-Witness

children who the court seeks to return to the bosom of the
family at all costs, so should it be when a child wishes to
reclaim a parental relationship.”
“That is very nice, Mr. Kyle. A wonderful speech.” Stephen
beamed at Mohr’s compliment but the judge, while
appreciative of the rhetoric, was not swayed by it. “But let’s be
real. Emily Bates does not know her daughter and cannot
confirm any of this. That’s a little bit of a problem isn’t it,
Counsel?”
“That is a thing of the moment, Judge. With time, we are
certain the relationship will be re-established and recognized.
Sadly, Mr. Reynolds has not only refused us information, he
has barred us from the facility pending input from his
superiors and, I am assuming, counsel of his own. Certainly
this is an understandable initial step, but it is doubtful those
people will know the circumstances of Emily Bates’
commitment anymore than you can from the minimal
information in that file. Retention of care is simply a matter of
business for Ha Kuna House administrators; it is a matter of
honor and love where her daughter is concerned. At the very
least, as a first step and a show of good faith on Ha Kuna
House’s part, a release of her medical records is warranted.”
“Actually, you are wrong. Retention is a legal matter
considering the existing order,” Mohr answered. “Still, I
understand what you’re saying, and I am not unsympathetic to
your client’s position. To your second point: release of medical
records. That is also problematic. This court is reluctant to
compound this confusion by directing a piecemeal release of
records. All or nothing is in order. However, we are walking
on shaky ground since there are privacy issues to consider. I’m
not at all comfortable going there without more information.”
“It’s a Catch 22,” Josie called out. “I need access to those
records to prove her need and my standing, judge, but you
want me to prove my case before I can access the records.”
“Ms. Bates, please,” Judge Mohr admonished.