What is a court appointed special advocate (CASA)?
A Court Appointed Special Advocate, also known as a “CASA,” is a community volunteer appointed by the court to advocate for the child. They receive many hours of training and professional supervision. CASA’s are not acting as social workers or attorneys. They are independent of the SRS, the social workers, and the guardian ad litem. The court might appoint a CASA to investigate your case. The CASA volunteer will interview you, your child and all persons important to your child. The CASA volunteer will have contact with your child, in person or by phone, several times a month. The CASA will then write a report for the court. You will not be allowed to see the report, but your attorney may discuss the report with you. CASA reports are influential with the court. The court views CASA reports as objective assessments.
