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In the Matter of Harold L.S., an Infant. Monroe County Department of Human Services, Respondent; Harold S., Appellant
Memorandum: Respondent father appeals from an order terminating his parental rights on the ground of abandonment and freeing his child for adoption. The father refused to attend the fact-finding hearing and his attorney, although present, elected not to participate in the father’s absence. Under those circumstances, we conclude that the father’s refusal to appear constituted a default, and we therefore dismiss the appeal (see Matter of Shawn A. [Milisa C.B.], 85 AD3d 1598 [2011]).
Present — Peradotto, J.E, Garni, Lindley, Sconiers and Green, JJ.