Anderson and Knox Court Advocate

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

YWCA Knoxville & the Tennessee Valley is on a mission to eliminate racism and empower women across East Tennessee. Every day, we put this mission into action through lifesaving and life-changing programs that support women, children, and families in six counties. Rooted in the values of peace, justice, freedom, and dignity, we work to strengthen communities and create opportunities for all. We are a dynamic, mission-driven organization that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous growth. Join a passionate team, making a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.

The Anderson and Knox Court Advocate provides trauma-informed advocacy and professional coordination for survivors of domestic violence interacting with the court systems in Anderson and Knox Counties. This position builds strong relationships with judicial partners, DCS staff, and community agencies to ensure survivor safety, enhance court response, and improve access to justice. The Advocate offers direct victim support, facilitates appropriate referrals, supports case coordination, and contributes to system-level improvements in domestic violence response. The ideal candidate demonstrates empathy, sound judgment, and a deep commitment to survivor empowerment and equity.

Duties and Responsibilities

Direct Advocacy and Client Support

• Provide survivor-centered, trauma-informed advocacy for individuals navigating court systems in Anderson and Knox Counties.
• Conduct intake and assessment with new clients, facilitating goal planning and safety strategies.
• Meet clients on a walk-in basis or by appointment to provide emotional support, safety planning, and resource referrals.
• Connect survivors with community resources and referrals as needed.
• Maintain confidentiality in compliance with VAWA, HIPAA, and YWCA policies.
• Create a judgment-free environment that honors survivor autonomy and self-determination.

Court and Systems Liaison

• Serve as a professional liaison between YWCA, local courts, DCS, law enforcement, and partner agencies.
• Provide consultation and advocacy to judicial and court personnel to promote trauma-informed practices.
• Support the coordination of supervised visitation and safe exchange services when needed.
• Identify court-related barriers that may impact clients’ access to services or safety to help strengthen client support and advocacy. 
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to strengthen collaboration and promote survivor safety.

Community Engagement and Outreach

• Provide public education presentations and professional training to partners and community groups.
• Represent YWCA Victim Services at community meetings, collaborative initiatives, and coordinated response efforts.
• Participate in a minimum of two outreach events per month to strengthen partnerships and increase awareness of services.
• Assist with agency-wide outreach initiatives, including community education and domestic violence awareness activities.
• Assist in planning and participating in YWCA’s annual Domestic Violence Awareness Campaign and community events.

Documentation, Compliance, and Data

• Maintain accurate, organized, and confidential case documentation in accordance with agency and grant requirements.
• Collect and input accurate data into Empower for reporting and grant compliance (OVW).
• Support quarterly and annual reporting by providing data, success stories, and outcome measures.
• Assist in evaluating program effectiveness through outcome tracking and survivor feedback.
• Ensure all services and documentation comply with VAWA, HIPPA, and other confidentiality policies and regulations.

Team Collaboration and Professional Development

• Actively contribute to Victim Services team meetings and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Participate in regular supervision and debriefing with the Director of Victim Services.
• Mentor interns or new advocates when assigned, modeling professionalism and trauma-informed best practices.
• Engage in at least two professional development trainings per year to enhance advocacy and leadership skills.
• Participate in organizational wellness activities and utilize strategies for secondary trauma prevention.
• Assist the Director of Victim Services with special projects and program development as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, counseling, criminal justice, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 2–5 years of experience in domestic violence, advocacy, court navigation, or social services preferred.
• Strong knowledge of trauma-informed care and survivor confidentiality standards.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with DCS, court systems, or supervised visitation programs preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to build positive relationships with diverse populations and professionals.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and computer skills.

Compensation

• Pay Range: $42,500–$45,000 annually (Full-Time, non-exempt)
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (30-minute unpaid break)

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Competitive retirement plan with employer contribution
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, mental health days, 10 holidays, and office closure between Christmas and New Year’s

YWCA Knoxville & the Tennessee Valley is an equal opportunity employer and a proud United Way community partner. We are committed to building a diverse team and fostering an inclusive environment where all employees can thrive. We strongly encourage women, veterans, and individuals from historically underrepresented communities to apply 

Application Deadline: September 28, 2026

Requirements: