CT SB00347

Judicial Department establishes a court appointed special advocate (CASA) program, effective October 1, 2016, administered by the Chief Court Administrator within the superior court for juvenile matters

Courts may appoint CASAs on their own motion or upon party request in proceedings involving petitions under sections 46b-129 or 46b-149 of the general statutes to serve the best interests of persons under 18 years old

CASAs may conduct independent investigations, make court recommendations, and access school records, medical records, mental health records, court records, and Department of Children and Families records with required releases

CASA services are provided at no charge, and advocacy may continue until the child reaches 21 years of age in appropriate cases as determined by the court

CASAs and program staff receive civil and criminal liability protection when acting in good faith within the scope of their appointment, except for intentional, willful, or wanton misconduct