Victim Advocate Specialist

JOB
Under general supervision, provides on-scene crisis intervention, advocacy and assistance to victims, witnesses and survivors of violent or non-violent crimes in the Cities of Thornton, Northglenn, and Federal Heights.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
(Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. The list of tasks is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class.) Reads and interprets police reports. Responsible for initial and follow up contact with victims, victim's family members and/or witnesses. Assists victims in understanding and coping with their situations and contacting pertinent parties such as friends, family, health care professionals, law enforcement officers, attorneys and service providers. Makes appropriate referrals to community-based resources/services to address any identified needs. Provides emergency support services such as developing a safety plan or addressing immediate safety needs. Acts as liaison between victims and witnesses, law enforcement officers, prosecutors, social service agencies, and offices of the courts. Coordinates any necessary meetings and may attend with victims to provide necessary support. Provides explanations of victim rights and factual updates of the investigation and criminal proceedings. Assists victims or their families with victim compensation and financial assistance applications, appeals, restitution process or civil remedies. Maintains statistical data for grant reporting; prepares reports documenting casework. Researches and compiles lists of community resources available to victims. Develops and maintains information packets for victims. Provides training and guidance to volunteer victim advocates and victim advocate interns on policies, procedures, liability and safety issues. Assists volunteers with caseloads as needed. Represents the Cities of Thornton, Northglenn, and Federal Heights on various boards, committees, and task forces. May be required to work overtime, weekends, and holidays. May be required to work on call. Performs other duties as assigned.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Examinations may include but are not limited to application screening beyond minimum qualifications; written, oral, practical exercise or any combination thereof or other job related assessment deemed appropriate by Human Resources. Your application will be used as a screening tool. Completeness and accuracy are important! Any false or untrue statements or material omissions in the application and related paperwork or during the selection process could disqualify you from consideration. As a condition of employment, the city of Thornton conducts background investigations for all positions which may also include a review of credit report and/or driving record. A drug screen, physical, and/or psychological examination administered by a city-designated provider will be required for pre-determined positions.