What do Court Appointed Special Advocates do?  

Court Appointed Special Advocates, or CASAs, are trained volunteers assigned by a judge to one or more children who are involved in court cases because of abuse or neglect. Their main job is to advocate for the child’s best interests. Responsibilities may include gathering information by talking with people involved in the child’s life and reviewing relevant records. CASAs provide written reports to the judge and provide testimony within the court when needed.

What does a typical day look like in this job?

On a typical day, CASAs might monitor their case and gather information. They may collaborate with other members of the legal team and follow the caregiver’s progress. CASAs also meet their assigned child or children at least every thirty days, building a trusting relationship and serving as a consistent adult in the child’s life. Based on the information they gather and these interactions, CASAs may write reports to the judge or make recommendations to the court.   

What skills or abilities are important for this job?

CASAs must have strong communication and collaboration skills with people of all ages and backgrounds. Because their work revolves around children, CASAs must be able to interact with children in a supportive way while learning about their circumstances without harming their trust or emotional well-being. They must show empathy and remain objective in their findings and recommendations. CASAs also need to have strong observation skills and the ability to write clear, accurate reports for the judge.
 

What kind of education, certification, or training is required?

To become a CASA, candidates must complete at least thirty hours of pre-service training and be willing to undergo necessary background checks and screening processes. They must be willing to commit to the CASA program until their first case is closed and be available for relevant court appearances. Candidates must also be twenty-one years of age or older.  
  

What is the most challenging part about this role?

One of the most challenging parts of being a CASA is the time commitment. CASA candidates must be willing to stay within the CASA program until their first case is closed, which can take one to two years on average. Another challenge may be the emotional demands of the role. CASA advocates often form connections with the child they are representing and can feel significant stress and frustration as a result if court decisions do not align with what they believe is in the child’s best interests.  

How much money do Court Appointed Special Advocates make?

CASAs are volunteers so they do not receive a salary.