Crime Victim Advocate - Spanish Speaking

CRIME VICTIMS ADVOCATE (SPANISH SPEAKING)

The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office (SCDAO) is one of the largest prosecutors' offices in the country and has recently launched a number of cutting-edge initiatives and reforms that have put it on the national stage for innovation. We are a team: one that is committed to making our community a safe place to live, work and raise a family. SCDAO is looking for the most qualified candidates to join our ranks, with the objective of recruiting those with diverse backgrounds, a strong work ethic, integrity and a commitment to public service and justice.

In furtherance of the Office’s mission of supporting victims of crimes, particularly child abuse and domestic violence victims, we are currently seeking at least one candidate for the position of Crime Victim Advocate. Crime Victim Advocates are tasked with developing a working relationship with the victims and witnesses, providing them with necessary information on court procedures, victim resources and accompanying them throughout the entire court process.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS
Under direct supervision, an employee in this class performs paraprofessional duties involving both initial and continuing direct, personal contact with victims and/or witnesses for the Victim Witness Assistance Program; and assists the professional staff in case file set-up and maintenance. The incumbent establishes a working relationship with the victims and witnesses, providing them with necessary information on court procedures and accompanying them throughout the entire court process.

Direct supervision is received from an administrative supervisor. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

• Contacts victims, witnesses and employers by telephone and/or letter concerning pre-trial, hearing and trial times, cancellations, grand jury summonses, subpoenas and disposition of cases;
• Escorts victims and witnesses to and from trial; attends case from pre-trial hearing through verdict and sentencing;
• Answers calls and inquiries concerning case information; explains all hearing and trial procedures;
• Writes and sends follow-up letters of notification when necessary;
• Recovers evidence from trial that should be returned to the victim/witness;
• Performs general clerical activities such as filing and telephone coverage;
• Arranges for interpreters, transportation, baby-sitters, travel plans and lodging accommodations for victims and witnesses.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS
Good knowledge of the structure, organization and procedures of the criminal court system; good knowledge of the structure, organization and procedures of the District Attorney's office; working knowledge of the principles and techniques of interviewing; ability to develop and maintain satisfactory working relationships with victims, witnesses, supervisors, fellow employees and the general public; ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing;

good powers of observation and perception; good judgment; tact; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

COMPENSATION
Starting salary:
Approximately $47,000/year

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Open Competitive

Either:

• (a) Graduation from a college with federally-authorized accreditation or registration by New York State with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Social Work or Sociology; or
• (b) Graduation from a college with federally-authorized accreditation or registration by New York State with an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Social Work or Sociology and two (2) years of experience in the delivery of health, social or community services, one (1) year of which must have been in crime victim advocacy; or
• (c) Graduation from a standard senior high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma, and four (4) years of experience in the delivery of health, social or community services, one (1) year of which must have been in crime victim advocacy; or
• (d) An equivalent combination of education and experience as defined by the limits of the above.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
There will be…