However, volunteers are screened closely for objectivity, competence, and commitment. CASA volunteers undergo a thorough training course conducted by the Lake County CASA program. The course is approximately 25 hours. Volunteers learn about courtroom procedure from the principals in the system - from judges, lawyers, social caseworkers, court personnel, and others. CASA volunteers also learn effective advocacy techniques for children, and are educated about specific topics ranging from seminars on child sexual abuse to discussions on early childhood development and adolescent behavior.
CASA volunteers offer children trust and advocacy during complex legal proceedings.
They explain to the child the events that are happening, the reasons they are all in court and the roles the judge, lawyers, and social workers play. CASA volunteers also encourage the child to express his or her own opinion and hopes. An average case load is two or three. The volunteer continues until the case is permanently resolved. One of the primary benefits of the CASA program is that, unlike other court principals who often rotate cases, the CASA volunteer is a consistent figure in the proceedings and provides continuity for a child.