The Children We Serve
Giving the smallest child a loud voice in court.
The following examples show many aspects of typical Family Law CASA cases:
A CASA volunteer represents the best interests of an infant in a case involving two teenaged parents
The young parents of an infant, still supported by their own families, are struggling to let go of their adolescence and to take on the responsibilities of parenthood. The situation is further complicated by the strong emotions of first love and betrayal. One parent wants to exclude the other due to the souring of their romantic relationship. The CASA volunteer investigates allegations that one or both parents are out partying with friends more than they are home with the child. The child is too young to verbally provide the CASA with any information, but observing the baby with each parent and interviewing the extended families can help the CASA work out a shared schedule that will keep both parents involved in the child’s life.
A CASA volunteer works on a case involving pre-teen children
The parents of two pre-teen children have been separated for several years, and their children have gone back and forth between them with little problem until the past year. About a year ago, the father filed to modify custody because the mother began living with a new boyfriend and appeared to be using drugs. The children began to be frequently late for school, or miss it altogether. Their level of cleanliness and hygiene deteriorated. Family Law CASA was appointed to investigate and report on the mother’s home and to assess her new partner’s influence on the children’s home environment. CASA was also asked to investigate how the children were doing in the father’s home and at a new school in his district. The CASA speaks to the children alone, speaks to their teachers, and obtains school records. The CASA volunteer also meets with both parents, interviews the mother’s boyfriend, and looks into his criminal history. Based on this body of research, the CASA makes recommendations to the court. Deciding that there are sufficient grounds for a change in custody, the court orders the mother to have a substance abuse evaluation before having further unsupervised visits with her children.
A CASA volunteer advocates for pre-school aged children
A grandmother files for custody of her grandchild after the mother and father have repeatedly left the child with her for longer and longer periods of time. The father has been charged with a criminal offense for drug possession, and the mother appears to be using drugs. Family Law CASA is appointed to check on the grandmother’s home and the welfare of the child. In addition, CASA is asked to investigate: whether the mother has a residence; with whom she is living; whether she needs a drug evaluation; and whether she should have supervised visits. During the CASA visit with the mother, numerous people show up at the home to buy drugs. CASA tracks the progress of the father’s case until he is sent to prison. After meeting with the grandmother, observing her home and researching her background the CASA volunteer recommends that the little girl remain with her and start Headstart in the fall.
There are many ways in which you can support this important work – become a CASA volunteer, make a donation, attend a fundraising event. Working together we can give children a voice in court.