Basic Function:

A child advocate is a trained community volunteer appointed by a judge to speak for the best interests of an abused and neglected child. A child advocate works as an official part of the judicial proceedings, working alongside attorneys and social workers. By handling only one or two cases at a time, the child advocate has time to thoroughly explore the history and circumstances of each assigned case.

Supervision:

• Direct supervision and guidance is provided by the volunteer supervisor(s).
  

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

• Complete an extensive, independent review of each case:
  • Meet face-to-face with child at least once a month;
  • Speak with the child and relevant adults (parents, family members, school officials, doctors, and others involved in the child's life who might have facts about the case);
    
  • Review appropriate records and reports;
  • Observe the child and significant others
• Report findings to the court by submitting formal reports to the court at every scheduled hearing/review:
  • Provide a written report containing factual information to the program office two weeks prior to every hearing;
  • Attend court hearings concerning the child.
  • Insure representation of the child's best interest:
  • Attend all court hearings to see that all relevant facts are presented;
  • Attend appropriate interagency meetings regarding the child;
  • Participate in case conferences concerning the child.
• Monitor case following a court hearing or decision as designated by the court:
  • Ensure that the judicial and child welfare systems are moving ahead to secure a safe, permanent home for the child;
  • Ensure that court-ordered services are provided to the child and family.
• Consult regularly with Child Advocate supervisor concerning assigned case:
  • Develop a plan for advocacy;
  • Review progress and reports.
• Training/Support Plan:
  • Child Advocate volunteers are required to attend approximately 40 hours of pre-service training and 12 hours of in-service training annually.
  • Child Advocate volunteers follow guidelines established by the National CASA Association.
  • Child Advocate volunteers have access to additional training opportunities offered by other agencies.
  • Child Advocate volunteers receive direct supervision and guidance from program staff.
  • Child Advocatevolunteers are encouraged to call their volunteer supervisor at any time with any questions/concerns.
• Time Commitment:
  • Child Advocate volunteers are required to make a twenty-four month commitment to the program.
  • Child Advocate volunteers are required to attend all court hearings on their cases.
  • Child Advocate volunteers are expected to be available for case assignment and to accept cases immediately upon completion of pre-service training, unless other arrangements have been made Child Advocate volunteers, on the average, spend 10-15 hours a month on each case.
• Necessary Knowledge and Skills:
  • Ability to keep all client and court information confidential.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to respect and relate to people from various backgrounds.
  • Ability to transport self.
  • Ability to maintain objectivity.
  • A basic understanding of child development and family relationships.
  • Good common sense.
  • Does not require specific educational training beyond a high school diploma or GED.
  • Must be 21 years of age.
• Benefits:
  • Although we cannot provide you with monetary rewards, there are many benefits to volunteering as a child advocate These include the opportunity to:
    
  • Make a difference in the life and future of a child who has been a victim of abuse and/or neglect;
  • Help a child/children find permanency in a safe, loving home;
  • Assist judges in obtaining a clear picture of a child's life and needs;
  • Gain an understanding of the courts, legal proceedings, and social service agencies;
  • Develop/utilize communication skills;
  • Develop/utilize assertiveness;
  • Utilize your past experience/skills;
  • Form friendships with like-minded people in your community;
  • Have access to training.

Print a copy
CASA Child Advocate Job Description.pdf