Conviction and Sentence Alternatives (CASA) Program in California's Central District
The Conviction and Sentence Alternatives (CASA) program, a unique post-guilty plea diversion program in California's Central District, is distinguished by its focus on addressing the root causes of criminal behavior. It provides individuals with a unique opportunity to confront these issues directly.
This rehabilitative initiative focuses on issues like substance abuse and issues with life skills. Participants can avoid traditional sentencing outcomes by completing this intensive program under the guidance of a collaborative team.
The CASA program is designed to help federal defendants whose criminal actions stem from underlying issues that can be addressed through structured supervision and treatment. These include substance abuse and mental health disorders.
Participants benefit from resources such as therapy, education, cognitive behavioral programs, and employment training. The program also incorporates sanctions and incentives to encourage compliance and rehabilitation.
Before entering the CASA program, participants must plead guilty to federal charges under a plea agreement. After successful completion, participants are eligible for their charges to be dismissed entirely. Their convictions remain but result in probation rather than incarceration.
Throughout this process, participants are supported by a comprehensive team of representatives from different agencies, ensuring they receive the necessary guidance and support. This robust support system is designed to reassure participants and their families that they are not alone in this journey.
This program is supported by the U.S. District Court, the U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Office, the Federal Public Defender's Office, and the United States Attorney's Office.
CASA Program Requirements
Eligibility for the CASA program depends on several factors. For example, applicants must live in the Central District of California. They must also have limited prior criminal activity, and no recent convictions for violent or serious offenses are preferred.
The program is most suitable for those with personal issues or skills deficits contributing to their criminal behavior. Participants must also meet specific requirements, including the following:
- Court Appearances. At least two appearances per month before a CASA representative.
- Drug Testing. Mandatory submission to random drug tests.
- Treatment Programs. Substance abuse therapy, mental health treatment, or cognitive behavior therapy.
- Employment or Education. Active participation in job training or education programs.
- Community Service. Completion of community service hours as required.
The CASA program typically lasts 12 months but can extend to two years depending on the participant's progress. Participants who fail to meet the program's requirements, such as missing court appearances or failing drug tests, or are terminated for other reasons, will proceed to sentencing for the offenses for which they initially pleaded guilty.
Application Process
A team of representatives from different agencies reviews applications, ensuring a fair and thorough review process. Applicants must notify the prosecuting Assistant U.S. Attorney of their intent to apply to CASA within 60 days of their arraignment. The application includes a letter detailing the applicant's background, challenges, and suitability for the program, along with supporting documentation.
The application process is designed to be fair and transparent, providing applicants with a clear understanding of the requirements and expectations. This fairness in the process is a testament to our respect for each applicant's unique circumstances.
After being submitted, the application undergoes a review process, including an interview with the CASA team. The CASA team, consisting of representatives from the U.S. District Court, the U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Office, the Federal Public Defender's Office, and the United States Attorney's Office, will assess the applicant's suitability for the program.
If accepted, the applicant's case will be transferred to a CASA judge, who will oversee the participant's progress throughout the program. The individual will begin the program shortly after pleading guilty under a CASA-specific agreement.
Certain individuals are typically excluded from CASA, including those charged with crimes involving violence, firearms, or significant financial fraud, people subject to removal from the United States, and those demonstrating extensive or recent criminal history.
In appropriate cases, an applicant may be interviewed for the CASA program while in custody. If the CASA team determines that the applicant is appropriate for the CASA program, the USAO, USPPSO, and the defendant's counsel may coordinate to suggest bond and pretrial release conditions to be reviewed by a judicial officer.
An applicant charged in the CDCA, but residing outside of the Central District of CA, seeking to move to the CDCA to participate in the CASA program must show that they have established ties or have previously lived in the CDCA to be considered for admission.
CASA Program Quick Facts
- The CASA program in the Central District of California is a post-guilty plea diversion program that offers alternative sanctions and rehabilitative resources to federal defendants.
- The program focuses on addressing the underlying causes of criminal behavior, such as substance abuse, mental health issues, or lack of life skills, through intensive supervision and treatment.
- Before beginning the CASA program, all admitted participants must initially plead guilty to a federal charge pursuant to a CASA program-specific plea agreement.
- Once the plea is entered, the case will be transferred to a CASA judge, who will oversee the participant's progress.
- The program is also for people whose criminal conduct was propelled by underlying causes that are amenable to modification through a period of intensive supervision or treatment through the program's rehabilitative resources.
- The program offers a combination of a variety of resources, including training in structured and responsible decision-making, drug and mental health treatment, sanction alternatives, and incentives to address offender behavior effectively.
- The primary goal of the program is rehabilitation rather than punitive, and it seeks to reduce recidivism by helping participants commit to positive lifestyle changes.
- Rather than facing a traditional conviction or sentence, participants who complete the program may either have their charges dismissed or receive probation in lieu of prison time.
- Participants must work closely with federal probation officers, case managers, and treatment specialists while being regularly evaluated by a designated CASA team.
- In cases in which restitution is owed, a CASA participant will be expected to begin making restitution payments.
How to Apply for CASA
If you want to apply for CASA, you must inform the federal prosecutors, also known as the Assistant U.S. Attorney, of your intention to apply for the program within 60 days of your initial arraignment. The application process itself takes about 30 days, and the courts have no obligation to delay a trial.
Each CDCA Division, including Western (Los Angeles), Southern (Santa Ana), and Eastern (Riverside), operates its own CASA program. Applicants should apply to the CASA program nearest to their residence.
Residents of Los Angeles and Ventura County should apply to the Los Angeles CASA program. Orange County residents should apply to the Santa Ana CASA program, and residents of Riverside and San Bernardino Counties should apply to the Riverside CASA program.
An applicant must be able to travel to the location of the district courthouse operating the CASA program to which they apply. It's not possible to participate in the CASA program via Zoom or other video teleconference.
Decisions to enter CASA are highly discretionary, and presenting an application supported by compelling arguments is key to acceptance. Your personal history and criminal record play a major role in determining eligibility.
You should seek help from our federal criminal defense attorneys to improve your chances of acceptance into the CASA program. We can help you complete your application in a manner that improves your chances of acceptance.
By seeking professional assistance, you can take proactive steps to enhance your application and increase your chances of being accepted into the program. For more information, contact the Hedding Law Firm, located in Los Angeles.
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