CASA of Carson City

CASA provides quality court-based advocacy for abused and neglected children. Children are referred to our program from a variety of sources including the juvenile court judges, attorneys, caseworkers, service providers, teachers and family members. 

CASA volunteers are matched to a case where their skills and training will benefit the children most. CASA volunteers work to get their child’s court case expedited in addition to helping the child they’re working with find permanency sooner.

Job Description of the Court Appointed Special Advocate

The CASA volunteer’s role is one of a reporter to the Court and that of impartial observer, conducting the investigation as the Judge would if time permitted. The volunteer is not entitled to present a case, call witnesses, examine or cross-examine witnesses. His/her role is to function as investigator and monitor, working directly for the Judge. The CASA volunteer submits a written report to the Court and may testify if called as a witness. In order to do this, the CASA must investigate the facts of the case, recommend a course of action to the Court, facilitate the resolution of problems and monitor progress toward established goals.

Qualifications of a CASA

Be at least 21 years of age

Submit an application with three personal references and attend an interview with staff

Submit to a complete background check and be free from any current/pending criminal charges

Interest in children, their rights, and special needs

Time to devote to training sessions, investigation, and follow-up on a case (usually an eighteen-month commitment, averaging four (4) to ten (10) hours a month)

Ability to work with a child, family members, and professionals using tact, concern, and basic human relation skills

Ability to communicate verbally and in writing, making verbal and written reports to the Court, to the program, and to other persons as needed

Maturity, stability, confidence, and common sense