The Child Advocacy Program (CAP) is established within MHAS to provide qualified legal counsel to children in “need of care” (abuse and neglect) cases. MHAS operates CAP in nineteen parishes: Caddo, Calcasieu, Cameron, St. Mary, St. Martin, Iberia, East Baton Rouge, St. Helena, Livingston, Tangipahoa, Washington, St. Tammany, Orleans, Plaquemine, Iberville, Pointe Coupee, West Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, and West Feliciana. The program is also in Denham Springs City Court, Covington City Court, Slidell City Court and Morgan City. A similar service is available in other parishes through the local legal services corporations. The law requires that the court appoint CAP in those areas where it operates.