VICTIM SERVICES ADVOCATE

Description

Examples of Duties

• Provides assistance to victims of crimes; contacts victim by phone, letter, and/or field visits; completes intake forms; determines and evaluates victim experiences and needs; makes referrals and recommendations regarding counseling, safety needs and concerns, housing, food, and other needs; explains and provides information and assistance regarding criminal justice processes, what to expect in their particular cases, victim's rights, victim notification policies and procedures, temporary protective orders, bond conditions, compensation and restitution programs, individualized safety plans, etc.; remains in contact with the victim throughout their case; provides updates and support; and provides crisis intervention as needed.
• Evaluates cases and offers appropriate recommendations; reviews police reports, 911 calls, pictures, medical records, criminal histories, etc.; gathers additional information as needed; compiles and submits data on high risk defendants to appropriate law enforcement and judicial agencies; assesses cases and make recommendations to prosecutors and investigators regarding case dispositions, victim's desires, defendant's criminal history, lethality factors, etc.; and refers cases as required by law to Department of Family and Children Services and Adult Protective Services.
• Serves as a liaison between the prosecution team and the victim; schedules and attends field visits to interview victims with prosecutors and investigators; collaborates with prosecutors to ensure the victims voices are heard throughout the case; relays victim information and requests to the prosecutors; assists prosecutors and investigators with necessary follow-up questions; communicates with prosecutors on cases pending which involve the same parties; assists with addressing transportation, accommodations, or safety issues; assists with preparing the victims to face and testify against their abuser in court; and advises prosecutors of any violations of bond, Temporary Protective Orders, or potential escalation of danger to the victim.
• Attends court sessions and provides support to the victim during court proceedings; accompanies victims to all court proceedings; contacts victims should a court appearance be missed; conducts a welfare check as needed; and ensures all protective measures have been taken within the courtroom to maintain the victim's safety.
• Performs community outreach; participates in community-based initiatives; provides information and education on issues related to domestic violence, violent crimes, victim assistance, and related issues to the public, law enforcement, and others; serves on a variety of committees and task forces; and builds and maintains relationships with community officers and community-based service providers and advocates to coordinate services for victims.
• Processes a variety of documentation associated with department/division operations, within designated timeframes, and per established procedures; receives and reviews various documentation; reviews, completes, processes, forwards, or retains as appropriate; prepares or completes various forms, reports, correspondence, and other documentation; compiles data for further processing or for use in preparation of department reports; and maintains computerized and/or hardcopy records.
• Furnishes families and interested parties with contact information and access to basic services such as job training, life skills training, physical and mental health care, parenting assistance, and more.
• Offers crisis counseling for children and youth who have experienced trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, mental health problems, or other challenges.
• Operates a personal computer to enter, retrieve, review, or modify data, utilizing word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation, Internet, e-mail, or other software; and operates general office or other equipment as necessary to complete essential functions.
• Communicates with supervisor, other County employees, prosecutors, law enforcement, court officials, victims, community service organizations, the public, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

None.

Knowledge, Skill, Abilities / Supplemental Information

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of local government operations, law related programs, policies and plans, and modern office practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other similar programs.
• Skill in the use of computers and software applications related to the essential functions of the job.
• Skill in effective communication, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to meet and deal with employees and the public in an effective and courteous manner.
• Ability to get along with others and work effectively with the public and co-workers.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evening meetings.
• Ability to multi-task and work within deadlines.
• Ability to deal with confidential and sensitive matters.
• Ability to use computers for data entry, word processing, and accounting purposes.
• Ability to operate a copying machine.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

WORK ENVIRONMENT