King County Dependency CASA

The King County Superior Court Dependency CASA Program recruits, trains, and supports community volunteers to advocate for children involved in juvenile dependency proceedings due to abuse or neglect. The program was established in 1977 by Presiding Judge David W. Soukup, who recognized the court needed independent, child-focused information when making critical decisions affecting children’s lives.

What began as a small group of volunteers has grown into a nationwide network of more than 70,000 CASA volunteers advocating for children across the United States.

Our program currently supports more than 220 dedicated volunteers who advocate for over 800 children in King County. CASA volunteers serve as a consistent voice for children navigating a complex court process. Currently, approximately 310 children in King County are still waiting for a CASA volunteer to be appointed to their case.

The King County Dependency CASA Program trains and supports community volunteers to serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) for children involved in juvenile dependency proceedings due to abuse or neglect.

CASA volunteers independently gather information about the child’s circumstances, maintain regular contact with the child and the adults involved in their case, and help ensure the court has a clear understanding of the child’s needs. Volunteers provide written reports and recommendations to the court that focus on the child’s safety, stability, and long-term well-being.

Through consistent advocacy and informed recommendations, CASA volunteers help the court make decisions that move children toward safe and stable permanency outcomes.