A. If, after proper service, the parent fails to appear before the court to answer the petition as required by Article 1025.1(A), the court shall set the date for the termination of parental rights hearing as required by Article 1031.
B. Notice of the hearing date shall be sent to the nonappearing parent by either registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, to the addressee only.
Acts 1997, No. 256, §1.