Ky.gov
Effective: 07/30/2026

G2.7 Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)

Legal Authority

Introduction

​The Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program utilizes trained community volunteers, appointed by the court, to represent the best interests of children who have come to the attention of the court system as a result of dependency, neglect, or abuse. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Practice Guidance

  • Upon appointment of a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) volunteer, they may schedule a consultation with the SSW to review the background of the case and to identify key issues. 
  • Referral source must be redacted from any information provided to the CASA volunteer. 
  • ​If appropriate, CASA volunteers should be invited to family team meetings (FTM) and case conferences.​

Procedure

  1. Provides information to the CASA volunteer and makes all requested information regarding the child, for whom they are appointed​, available in print form for review. 
  2. Makes all requested information regarding the parent or persons exercising custody, control, or supervision available in print form for review upon court approval. The volunteer shall have access to the parents' medical and psychological records when the court determines that the information is essential to the child's welfare and orders it.  
  3. Maintains contact with the CASA volunteer to ensure the advocacy of the child’s best interests as long as the case remains open and active in court. ​

Documents

Revisions

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