CASA of New Hampshire – All Rise: A judge’s perspective

What excites me about the law is its ability to help the public. In the area of ​​family we deal with people who are very traumatized and come to us with the worst moments of their lives. If we can help them get through those difficult moments, it’s really fulfilling for me. Court-appointed special counsel are individuals who have taken the time to volunteer to become advocates for child abuse and neglect cases statewide. In a child protection case, they intervene from the start and represent the interests of the child throughout the court proceedings. The CASA provides the judge with information relating only to the child and the best interests of the child. The CASA becomes the voice of the child in the courtroom. Cases of abuse and neglect begin when DCYF files an emergency petition with the court, usually for the removal of one or more children from a home because they are at risk. CASA comes to the preliminary hearing when the case is first opened and they will sit with this child at all hearings. CASA has met with the children and parents and got a picture of what is going on in the children’s lives, how they interact with their parents and can talk about what they think is in the child’s best interest at that point . Without CASA volunteers, the system we have in New Hampshire could not work. The system cannot function without an advocate for the child in the courtroom. The CASA probably knows a child better than anyone, even the social worker, because they have this direct connection with the children and they usually take on one or two cases at a time. You have the time and ability to meet with children and maintain that ongoing connection. The work of CASA is so important to this process, and especially to a judge making decisions, because a CASA volunteer is a neutral party and has no obligation other than to work for the best interests of children. CASA is essential in a courtroom because they know the kids and the kids are the reason we are there. Having a CASA that knows the child, that listens to the child and can convey to us exactly what is going on in that child’s life is what is so crucial. Even small children notice that they have a friend in the CASA volunteer. You have an adult. And sometimes, sadly, it’s the first time in their lives that they have an adult that they realize really cares. What I am most grateful for as a judge is her dedication to the children, her willingness to be there at every hearing, really getting to know the children, representing what they need when they come to court, and for always being there there are for the kids. I admire and respect their dedication and help in making the best decisions possible. We always get better results and better decisions with better information, and if they can bring us that, then it’s a win-win for everyone.

CASA of New Hampshire – All Rise: A judge’s perspective

Updated: 5:35 p.m. EST November 22, 2022

CASA’s work is explained by two New Hampshire judges who help define how they play a role in the courtroom in abuse and neglect cases.

CASA’s work is explained by two New Hampshire judges who help define how they play a role in the courtroom in abuse and neglect cases.