I don’t think that DSHS will have a choice to let it go ‘no strings attached’ ‘cause even if they have broken the law to this point they will still cling to the law to show they have an obligation to *ensure that once reunification has happened, the supports and services are in place for continued success*
I know they should let it go, admit their mistakes and such but I am just to cynical (er, jaded from experience?) to see that happening. They will save face somehow!
I wanted to put that out there so you could maybe start preparing yourself for settlement with DSHS. Say, agreeing to having the baby back, with the services and supports of a new case manager for a limited period of time with a specific purpose (ie family reunification and ongoing support) under a clearly written plan that leaves no room for whims based on the subjective feelings of a state agent? Agreeing to something like that is probably the quickest way to resolve this issue and get your loved one back. It may also be the only way to avoid a trial that yes you may win in the long run (and it could be a veeery long run) but will sap your finances and energy to no end.
I respectfully submit that you should be in deep discussion with your husband, daughter, and attorney concerning how far you are willing to negotiate. What you can and can’t accept in terms of continued oversight etc. There WILL be continued oversight, hopefully for a very short period of time. IF your family won’t agree to that then...
I’ll meet ya at the courthouse with my bells (of support) on. Figuratively speaking of course :-)
When this whole thing is over, we will all get together in the cyberworld and have a party.