Legal Advocate

Job Description

Job Description

ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW:

Turning Point, Inc in Mount Clemens, MI is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization qualified employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). Turning Point, Inc empowers survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking through comprehensive services and resources while advocating for community action to end oppression and violence. We offer emergency shelter, housing, advocacy/counseling, forensic nurse examiner program & first response advocacy services, 24-hour hotline, personal protection order assistance and legal advocacy, community education, and systems change.

POSITION SUMMARY : 

The Legal Advocate’s responsibilities include providing court assistance, follow-up services, resources, and advocacy to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. The Legal Advocate is also responsible for providing referrals, direct assistance, and crisis intervention to survivors within the Warren court and law enforcement system. As well as building relationships with court and law enforcement personnel for system change efforts. 

SUPERVISION RESPONSIBILITIES:

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE:

The ideal candidate must have knowledge of survivor-centered, trauma-informed, and advocacy-based interventions with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking that are rooted in anti-oppression values and the empowerment model. Specific knowledge in crisis intervention, trauma-informed practices, lethality assessments, and safety planning is desired as demonstrated success building teams, collaborating with peers, and solving problems. Candidates must also have knowledge of advocacy with survivors in various systems which may include criminal justice, family court, child welfare, healthcare, education, and human services. Additionally, candidates should have knowledge about victim’s rights, community resources, and the impact of violence on survivors and loved ones. The ideal candidate must have strong written and verbal communication skills. As our free, confidential services are inclusive and accessible to honor the unique needs, identities, and experiences of individuals who identify as a survivor of domestic violence, sexual violence, or human trafficking, candidates must demonstrate the ability to work with all survivors and understand the unique barriers that survivors with intersecting oppressed identities will encounter. Candidates must also demonstrate knowledge of the cultural and societal influences that impact survivors’ experiences and healing, as well as trauma-informed practices for both adult and child survivors. Additionally, skills in assessing and intervening with suicidal clients are essential to ensure safety and support through crisis-responsive, survivor-centered approaches.

EDUCATION: 

A bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice or related field is required or 2-4 years’ experience in survivor/legal advocacy.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Implement agency and program mission and empowerment philosophy. 
• Administer and implement agency policies and procedures.
• Maintain agency policy on confidentiality, record keeping and professional ethics.
• Legal Advocate will be responsible for providing court assistance and advocacy to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. Travel to different locations in Macomb County, as well as on occasion surrounding counties is required when necessary to provide services.
• Legal Advocate will be responsible for accurately maintaining and documenting all activity and services provided, ensuring the timely completion of documentation and turning it in monthly to the Director of Legal Advocacy.
• Provide assistance to survivors with address confidentiality. 
• Work collaboratively with Lakeshore Legal Aid, prosecutors, court personnel, and law enforcement lending support on cases related to domestic violence, stalking and sexual assault.
• Work together with the Director of Legal Advocacy to maintain efficient and accessible legal advocacy services at Turning Point.
• Research available resources within the community and keep current on changes in domestic violence, stalking and sexual assault laws, as well as criminal and district court procedures.
• Notify the Director of Legal Advocacy, Senior Director of Education and Strategy, or CEO of any emergency situations that may affect Turning Point staff, clients, or Warren Community Partners.
• Participate in applicable staff training courses and workshops. 
• Attend all departmental and agency staff meetings, and other meetings deemed necessary by Turning Point.
• Conduct relationships with colleagues to promote mutual respect, improvement of services, and interdepartmental program development.
• Perform all other duties as assigned. 

Working Conditions :

• Must be able to work independently and multi-task in a fast-paced office environment. 
• Allow for flexibility in schedule, work location, and job function. 
• Must be able to drive to multiple sites
• Ability to operate general office equipment
• Must have the ability to work with diverse populations.
• Must have reliable transportation, insurance, a valid Michigan Driver’s License and a good driving record.

• Must pass a criminal background check as a condition of employment.

• Ability to lift 20lbs. 
• Ability to climb stairs.

Turning Point, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.  We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, height, weight or Veteran status.