court appointed special advocates (casas) are volunteers trained to be advocates for children who have been abused and neglected and are under the protection of the court. they are appointed by the judge to meet regularly with the child, review records, and talk to family members and professionals involved in the child's case. they report information to the judge, make recommendations to promote the child's best interests, and monitor compliance with the court's orders until the child has been placed in a safe, permanent home.