GUARDIANSHIP OF AMARA & JOEL CICEU-CERV ANTES

CASE NUMBER: 26PG-0033207 This matter is on calendar for further proceedings on a Petition for Appointment of Guardian of the Person. The Petition was filed by the minors’ non-relative caregivers, Aaron and Jessica Souza. Letters of Temporary Guardianship issued on January 12, 2026. The Tribe filed an objection to the temporary guardianship on June 30, 2026, despite originally supporting emergency placement with the Souzas. Considering that this guardianship was commenced pursuant to a Children’s Services safety plan, the Temporary Guardianship is ORDERED to remain in effect until further order of the Court.

The Court previously determined the matter has been properly noticed. ICWA notification has been properly given and a request to intervene was received from the Mechoopda Indian Tribe. The Tribe has filed an objection stating that family placement with paternal aunt, Jenny Adkins, is available and requests placement consistent with ICWA. Jenny Adkins has filed an objection. The mother filed an objection; however, the mother and father subsequently filed a nomination of the Souzas as guardians and a declaration in support of their petition.

The minors’ great aunt, Jenny Adkins, has also filed a Petition for Appointment of Guardian of the Persons. Letters of Temporary Guardianship were requested but denied. The Court notes a Notice of Hearing has not been filed and served regarding the Petition, therefore the matter is not properly before the Court. The Court will dispense with notice to the paternal grandfather. There is no proof of service of the Notice of Hearing and Petition for the temporary guardians, maternal grandparents, paternal grandmother, or siblings. The mother and father consented to the guardianship but subsequently filed declarations withdrawing their consent in support of the Souzas’ petition.

This matter is also on calendar for confirmation of counsel. Jennifer Tescher has been appointed as counsel for the mother. Melissa Fanoe has been appointed as counsel for the father. At the last hearing, the Court made a referral to Children’s Services. A report from Children’s Services has not been received. The Tribe filed applications to commence juvenile court proceedings on June 23, 2026. Children’s Services has three weeks from the date of the referral to commence juvenile dependency proceedings. Prob. Code § 1513. The matter is continued to Monday, July 20, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. in Department 42 for further proceedings on the Petition for Appointment of Guardian of the Persons and confirmation of counsel. No appearance is necessary on today’s calendar.