I like the attorney. It's just that she seems to put undue weight on what the kids say...and the kids are almost always going to say that they want to go home when they are put on the spot, particularly with someone they don't know well. An attorney ad litum isn't there to do what the kids say they want, but what is in the best interest of the kids. There are people involved in this case whose history with this family goes back to before either of these kids was even born, and NONE of them think it is in the best interest of the kids to go back to the parents. The therapists for both kids believe that going back to their parents would have devastating consequences. Right now, the kids have a chance, particularly the younger one. They have thrived since being out of the home. If they go back to the parents, there is not a doubt in my mind that it will ruin their lives. I am seldom THAT certain, but in this case I am.
Well, often your gut feeling is the most important. It must be heart-wrenching for you to see this happen. Sometimes God works in mysterious ways with these kids. I really admire what you do.