Advocate Job Description
Position
Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)
Williamson County, Tennessee
Reports to
CASA Advocate Supervisor
Responsible to
CASA Executive Director and Williamson County Juvenile Court Judge
General Requirements
Each CASA must demonstrate the desire, willingness and ability to help a child. Volunteers must be at least 21 years of age, make at least a two year commitment, complete a 30 hour CASA training course and court observation hours, successfully pass a CASA background screening, receive supervision, work effectively alongside other “system” professionals, and report to the court.
Roles and Responsibilities
Establish a relationship with the child to better understand the child’s needs and desires. Meet with him/her at least once a month.
Support the child throughout court proceedings: explain the court proceedings to the child (if ageappropriate), attend each hearing with or without the child, attend appropriate interagency meetingsregarding the child.
Explain the CASA volunteer's role, duties and responsibilities to all parties associated with the case. Review available records regarding the child's family history, school behavior, medical or mentalhealth history, etc.
Identify and explore potential resources that will facilitate family preservation, early familyreunification, or alternative permanency planning.
Interview all parties involved with the child regarding the child’s circumstances and needs, asdetermined by the CASA plan.
Communicate the child’s needs to the court in written reports including concerns and recommendations.
Ensure that the court-ordered plans for the child are being implemented.
Communicate and coordinate efforts with the child’s case manager, probation officer, and/orGuardian ad Litem.
Comply with the National CASA Association standards.
Other duties and responsibilities as determined by the presiding Juvenile Court Judge or Magistrate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a CASA volunteer?
A CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) is a trained citizen who is appointed by the Judge to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in court.
What is a CASA volunteer’s role?
CASA advocates provide the judge with carefully researched information about the child to help the court make a sound decision about that child’s future. They provide written reports to the court and follow through until that child reaches a safe, permanent home.
How does a CASA relate to the child?
CASA advocates offer children trust and advocacy during legal proceedings. They encourage the child to express his or her opinions and hopes, while maintaining their own objectivity.
How many cases do volunteers carry?
CASA volunteers typically carry one or two cases at a time.
How much time does it require?
It typically requires 10-20 hours a month per case until the case is resolved.
What kind of training is required?
CASA advocates complete a 30 hour training course and a mandatory court observation. All classes must be completed for a volunteer to graduate and be sworn in by the court as a CASA volunteer. Each volunteer must also complete 12 hours of continuing education every year after his or her first year of service.
What kind of person is a CASA volunteer?
CASA volunteers come from all walks of life. Volunteers must be 21 or older, undergo a background check, provide references and take part in a personal interview. Volunteer advocates are patient, open-minded people who have good communication skills, can maintain professionalism and objectivity, have a history of following through on commitments and a willingness to accept guidance. Above all, they care about children.