A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is appointed by a judge to speak for the best interest of children brought into the judicial system as victims of abuse or neglect. Volunteers are trained in the areas of courtroom procedures, effective advocacy techniques, drug and alcohol issues, and ways to spot abuse. CASAs spend time with children and their families and are in contact with SRS personnel, school staff, medical and mental health agencies, foster families or others who might have information relating to their cases. Before a child is scheduled to appear in court, the CASA writes a report to the judge and makes recommendations about what the CASA feels would be in the best interest of the child.
