Facing federal criminal charges is one of the most stressful experiences a person can endure.

Federal prosecutors in the Central District of California (CDCA) rarely file charges unless they believe they have strong evidence, and federal sentencing often carries severe consequences, including lengthy prison terms.

Despite this reality, the Conviction and Sentence Alternatives (CASA) Program offers a rare and powerful opportunity for eligible defendants.

The CASA program allows certain federal defendants to avoid incarceration, address the underlying causes of their criminal conduct, and—depending on the outcome—avoid a permanent conviction altogether.

Understanding how CASA works, who qualifies, and how to apply can dramatically alter the trajectory of a federal case.

Your best hope for a favorable outcome is with a highly experienced federal criminal defense attorney at Eisner Gorin LLP. To schedule a consultation, call (818) 781-1570 or contact us here.

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What Is the CASA Program?

The Conviction and Sentence Alternatives (CASA) Program is a post-guilty-plea diversion and sentencing alternative program available exclusively in the Central District of California.

Unlike traditional diversion programs, CASA requires participants to plead guilty under a program-specific plea agreement before entering the program. However, successful completion can lead to either:

• Dismissal of charges, or

• A probation-only sentence with no prison time

The program focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment, addressing root causes such as substance abuse, mental health challenges, lack of education, or unstable life circumstances.

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Who Oversees the CASA Program?

The CASA program operates through a coordinated partnership among:

• The United States District Court for the Central District of California

• The U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Office

• The United States Attorney's Office (USAO)

• Defense counsel

Participants are closely supervised and regularly evaluated by a designated CASA team, ensuring accountability while offering meaningful support and resources.

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Goals of the CASA Program

The CASA program is designed to:

• Reduce recidivism

• Promote rehabilitation and personal accountability

• Address the underlying causes of criminal behavior

• Protect public safety

• Provide a structured alternative to incarceration

Rather than focusing solely on punishment, CASA emphasizes long-term behavioral change and reintegration into the community.

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How the CASA Program Works

The CASA program is highly structured and requires a serious commitment from participants.

Guilty Plea Requirement

To enter CASA, defendants must plead guilty pursuant to a CASA-specific plea agreement. This is a critical decision that should only be made with experienced federal defense counsel.

Intensive Supervision

Once accepted, participants are placed under intensive federal supervision, which includes:

• Regular meetings with probation officers

• At least two court appearances per month

• Ongoing progress evaluations by the CASA team

These court appearances provide accountability, encouragement, and judicial oversight.

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CASA Program Tracks and Outcomes

The CASA program offers two distinct tracks, each with different legal outcomes.

Track One – Dismissal of Charges

• Charges are dismissed upon successful completion

• The guilty plea is vacated

• No federal conviction remains

This is the most favorable outcome and is reserved for highly suitable candidates.

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Track Two – Probation-Only Sentence

• The conviction remains on record

• The sentence is probation only

• No incarceration is imposed

This outcome still allows defendants to avoid prison and rebuild their lives.

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CASA Program Requirements

Participants must comply with a wide range of individualized conditions, which may include:

• Substance abuse treatment

• Mental health counseling

• Cognitive behavioral therapy

• Employment or educational programs

• Community service

• Random drug testing

• Restitution payments, if applicable

The program typically lasts at least 12 months and may extend up to 2 years, depending on progress and compliance.

Failure to meet program requirements can result in termination from CASA and immediate sentencing on the original federal charges.

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Eligibility for the CASA Program

Not all federal defendants qualify for CASA. Eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis and considers factors such as:

• Nature of the offense

• Criminal history

• Risk to public safety

• Willingness to engage in treatment and supervision

• Residence within the CDCA

Common eligibility considerations include:

• First-time offenders or minimal criminal history

• Non-violent offenses

• Demonstrated motivation for rehabilitation

• Underlying issues such as addiction or mental health challenges

Defendants must reside within the Central District of California. Those living outside the district may be considered only if they can demonstrate strong ties to the CDCA.

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Application Timeline and Process

When to Apply

Defendants must notify the Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) of their intent to apply within 60 days of arraignment.

The CASA evaluation process takes approximately 30 days, and courts are not required to delay trial proceedings. Early application is essential.

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Where to Apply

Each CDCA division operates its own CASA program:

• Los Angeles Division
  Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo Counties

• Santa Ana Division
  Orange County

• Riverside Division
  Riverside and San Bernardino Counties

Applicants must apply to the division closest to their residence and must be able to attend in-person proceedings and treatment. Remote participation is not permitted.

Applicants denied admission may not apply to another division's CASA program.

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Why Legal Representation Is Critical

Acceptance into the CASA program is highly discretionary. A well-prepared application can make the difference between prison and freedom.

An experienced federal criminal defense attorney can:

• Assess CASA eligibility

• Coordinate application strategy

• Communicate with prosecutors and probation officers

• Negotiate plea terms

• Present compelling mitigation evidence

Improper handling of the CASA process can permanently foreclose the opportunity.

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Speak With a Federal CASA Defense Attorney

If you are facing federal charges in the Central District of California and may qualify for the CASA program, time is critical.

Eisner Gorin LLP, a federal criminal defense law firm based in Los Angeles, California, has experience navigating the CDCA court system and CASA applications.

Contact our office today at 818-781-1570  to discuss your options and protect your future.

Related Content:

• CASA Program Overview
• Federal Public Defender
• Expansion of the CASA Program
• Conviction and Sentence Alternatives