Court Appointed Special Advocate

Being a CASA volunteer requires dedication, compassion, and commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of vulnerable children in Lincoln County. A volunteer's primary responsibility is to gather information, provide written reports, and attend court hearings on behalf of the child.

1. Apply - Complete an application.

2. Interview - Schedule an interview with CASA staff.

3. CASA training - Attend training to prepare you to be a volunteer CASA.

4. Graduate - After completing 30 hours of training you will be sworn in by the Judge and ready to pick your CASA case.

- Volunteers must be 21 years of age

- Volunteers must undergo and pass extensive background check

- Volunteers must complete 30 hours of preservice training

CASA of Lincoln County desires at least 18-month commitment for a volunteer; including 8 to 10 hours per month, per case.

 Cases typically last until the child reaches a permanent, safe home—whether through reunification with family, adoption, or another stable placement. Most cases last about 12 to 18 months, but the exact duration can vary depending on the complexity of the situation.

Advocates are typically assigned to one case at a time, which may involve a single child or a sibling group. In some situations, advocates may choose to take on more than one case, depending on their availability and the complexity of the case.

CASA Advocates concentrate exclusively on advocating for the child’s best interests, while social workers balance protecting the child’s safety with supporting the parents to resolve the challenges that brought the child into protective services.

 CASA of Lincoln County is partially funded by the Montana Supreme Court and also relies on private donations, grant writing, fundraising events, and local community support.