What is the primary role of the CASA in court proceedings?

The Child Advocacy Specialist or CASA is primarily focused on advocating for the best interest of the child within court proceedings. This role is crucial because the CASA serves as a voice for the child, particularly in cases involving abuse or neglect. They conduct independent investigations, gather information, and present their findings to the court, ensuring that the child's needs and preferences are considered during deliberations.

This advocacy is important as it helps the court understand the unique circumstances and needs of the child, which may not always be fully represented by other parties involved in the case. The CASA's involvement is intended to promote the welfare and rights of the child, supporting a resolution that is in their best interest.

The other roles mentioned, such as ensuring legal representation, supervising juvenile cases, or making sentencing recommendations, do not directly align with the CASA's primary function. Instead, those responsibilities fall under other legal professionals or court officials. The CASA is specifically dedicated to ensuring that the child's voice is heard and advocated for throughout the legal processes.