CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate)
A trained volunteer appointed by the court to advocate for the best interests of a child in custody or abuse/neglect cases.
Understanding CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate)
CASA volunteers are community members who undergo extensive training to serve as the voice of a child in court proceedings. They investigate the child's situation by visiting homes, talking to parents, teachers, and therapists, and reviewing records. CASAs then provide the judge with written reports and recommendations. Unlike attorneys, CASAs focus solely on what they believe is best for the child rather than representing a party's legal interests. The National CASA Association operates in all 50 states with over 90,000 volunteers serving approximately 250,000 children annually.
Real-World Examples
The court appoints a CASA volunteer to interview both parents and the child's teachers before making a custody recommendation.
Related Terms
The legal standard used by courts to make all custody and visitation decisions. The child's wellbeing takes priority over both parents' preferences.
Child AdvocateA person — typically an attorney, guardian ad litem, or CASA volunteer — appointed to represent a child's interests in divorce or custody proceedings.
Amicus CuriaeLatin for 'friend of the court.' A person or organization not party to the case who provides information or expertise to help the court make a decision.
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This definition is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Divorce laws and terminology may vary by state and jurisdiction.
Always consult a licensed attorney in your area for advice specific to your situation.