Victim​/Witness Advocate Human Services Worker II), State's Attorney Office

Overview

To assist crime victims and witnesses through the criminal justice system by answering their questions and concerns, making referrals to agencies that would provide additional assistance and provide courtroom accompaniment. Assist the prosecutors by contacting victims and witnesses, scheduling appointments and coordinating victims' and witnesses' courtroom appearance.

STARTING SALARY $51,382 ANNUALLY/$24.70 HOURLY

Performs advanced technical level human services work, which may include supervisory responsibility, under regular supervision from an administrative or technical superior. Work includes providing services needed to carry out human service programs or the operation of a medium sized center with extensive regional responsibility and daily programs. Work also includes performing supportive casework services needed to carry out an alternative sentencing program, and placing adult offenders into community service organizations according to court specified sentencing instructions.

Include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

• Serve as a link of communication between the State's Attorney's Office and victims and witnesses of crime in District Court cases handled by the Special Victims Unit.
• Ensure that victims are treated with dignity and respect. Keep victims and witnesses well informed of the status of their case.
• Answer questions, explain court procedures, and ensure courtroom proceedings are as comfortable as possible for victims and witnesses. Arrange transportation to and from court when necessary.
• Alert prosecutors to any developments/concerns realized by contact made with victims and witnesses. Coordinate and attend meetings with the prosecutors and victims and witnesses.
• Provide information and assistance with understanding the Protective/Peace Order process, VINE system, filing a CICB claim, and restitution requests. Advise victims of their right to submit a Victim Impact Statement, explain importance, and assist in writing, if needed.
• Make necessary referrals to appropriate Social Service agencies or other organizations assisting with counseling, financial support, temporary housing, etc.
• Search for and compile information on any previous Domestic Violence related history a defendant may have in the court system.
• Monitor the daily bail review schedule and alert victims of the outcome.
• Mail letters and necessary correspondence to victims and witnesses.

This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

PREFERRED EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE,

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Associate degree and one (1) year related experience or equivalent combination of experience and education.

• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal justice or Social Science/Human Services related field and experience working directly with the public in legal, social service or customer service setting.
• Thorough knowledge of victim's rights.
• Bilingual Spanish Speaking.
• Thorough knowledge of the criminal justice system, laws, regulations and procedures related to this position.
• Ability to exercise good judgment in deciding when to act independently and when to refer situations to a higher authority.
• Ability to work on a cooperative, courteous and effective basis with associates, officials and representatives from other public and private agencies.
• Strong ability to multi-task and prioritize in a fast-paced, high volume environment.
• Ability to pass a background check.
• Possess a valid Driver’s License

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The work involves sitting, speaking, listening, walking, standing, and using hands; may require lifting up to 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close vision.

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of victims, witnesses or employees of the organization. Ability to perform basic arithmetic and solve practical problems; interpret instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form. Possession of a valid driver’s license.