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How does a volunteer advocate investigate a
case?
To prepare a recommendation, the CASA volunteer advocate talks with
the child, parents, family members, social workers, school officials,
health providers and others who are knowledgeable about the child's
history and current situation. The CASA volunteer also reviews the
child's court, school, medical, social services records and other
relevant reports.
How does the CASA volunteer advocate relate to the child?
CASA volunteers offer children trust and advocacy during complex
legal proceedings. They explain to the child the events that are
happening, the reasons they all are in court and the roles the judge,
lawyers and social workers play. CASA volunteers also encourage
the child to express his or her own opinion and hopes, while remaining
objective observers.
Do I have to be a lawyer to be a CASA Volunteer?
No. CASA volunteers come from all educational and professional backgrounds.
No special experience is required.
Can I work full time and be a CASA Volunteer?
Yes. Many volunteers also hold full time jobs. Some job flexibility
will be required to attend occasional court hearings. The average
time commitment is 10-15 hours per month, although the more complicated
cases can take longer.
How long does a CASA volunteer remain on a child's case?
CASA requires a one-year commitment from a volunteer. A typical
case lasts approximately 16 months and it is our goal to keep the
same volunteer on a child's case from start to finish.
Do lawyers, judges and social workers support CASA?
Yes. Juvenile court judges implement the CASA program in their courtrooms
and appoint volunteers. CASA has been endorsed by the American Bar
Association, the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges,
and the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention of
the U.S. Department of Justice.
How else can I help?
A financial contribution is a step you can take if your schedule
or other time commitments prevent you from becoming a CASA volunteer.
Send tax-deductible donations in any amount to Piedmont CASA at:
Piedmont
CASA
PO Box 603
Charlottesville, VA 22902
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