VICTIM ADVOCATE - DISTRICT ATTORNEY

CLASSIFICATION TITLE: VICTIM ADVOCATE

CLASSIFICATION PURPOSE

The purpose of this classification is to perform responsible, administrative, and advocacy work in the District Attorney’s Victim Witness Assistance Program to ensure victims of felony crimes are treated with respect and dignity, that they are notified of their right, and that they receive emotional support throughout the criminal justice process. Work is often performed under stressful conditions and involves timely attention to victim needs, and work is performed under the general supervision of the District Attorney with direct supervision by the Victim Assistance Coordinator and Victim Assistance Program Manager/Therapist.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Assists victims during the criminal justice process; provides victim with information and education victims about the criminal justice process; provides telephone and face-to-face advocacy to victims and their family members; Makes follow-up contacts with these victims by mail and/or telephone; read court calendars and contact victims with case status; talks with investigators and prosecutors about cases and provides information and advocacy concerning case status; notifies victims by mail or by telephone of hearings, procedures, and dispositions regarding their cases; assists victims following case disposition when needed or requested Distributes information mail-outs to victims regarding available program services and victim’s rights as described by the Crime Victim’s Bill of Rights; provides information, advocacy, and assistance to clients in completing Victim Impact Statements, Victim Compensation Applications, applications for Temporary Protective Orders as necessary; provides assistance with requesting notification from for the local Sheriff’s Department, Board of Pardons, and Paroles, and the Department of Corrections as necessary; provides creditor, landlord, and employer intervention as necessary Attends hearings with victims for emotional support such as preliminary hearings, bond hearings, and other hearings as needed; attends training seminars to keep abreast of current trends in victim assistance; attends community meetings related to victim assistance upon request; prepares letters and correspondences; documents contacts with victims/witnesses to other staff members when appropriate; adheres to program policies and procedures; acts as team player. Performs related work duties as necessary.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

High school diploma or GED with preference given to a Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, sociology, criminal justice, or related field; supplemented with some experience in community services or advocacy work preferred; some knowledge of community resources, criminal justice processes, and clerical/administrative experience helpful. Hours are Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

ADA COMPLIANCE

Physical Ability: Tasks requires the ability to exert very moderate physical effort in light work, typically involving some combination of stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling, which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (12-20 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard, on the telephone, or work station. Clayton County, Georgia, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Claytoncountyga