The CASA® serves as an advocate for abused and neglected children in court. The volunteer talks with the child, parents, family, relevant agencies, school officials, health providers and others who are knowledgeable about the child's history. CASA® volunteers also speak with involved attorneys and case workers.
The CASA® volunteer then reviews all of the child’s records and provides the judge with a report on their findings. With the information provided by the CASA®, judges are better able to make informed decisions as to what is best for the child, choosing options such as returning to their parents, foster care, or adoption.
Research shows that children who have been assigned a CASA® tend to spend less time in court and the foster care system, than those who do not have CASA® representation.
Note that a CASA® does not provide legal advice or representation; that role is filled by the Attorney for The Child (formerly known as the Law Guardian). However, our advocates do provide crucial background information that can assist these attorneys in presenting their case.
Court Appointed Special Advocates® believe that every child deserves a safe, loving and permanent home. Unfortunately, only one in four abused or neglected children in our service area currently have an assigned advocate. The need for this service is great, and we are constantly looking for dedicated volunteers to continue providing a voice in court.
The CASA® program is a national program, and is administered locally by The Peacemaker Program, Inc. in Oneida and Herkimer counties.
