Mitigation Specialist - Defense Social Worker

The Missouri Public Defender System (MSPD) is dedicated to providing legal representation to individuals accused of or convicted of crimes in Missouri who cannot afford an attorney. We are seeking mitigation specialists to help our clients with the underlying issues that have led to their contact with the criminal legal system. Client Advocacy And Case Management Build relationships with community providers and overcome barriers clients face in accessing services and the stigma of criminal legal involvement. Work with clients to identify and achieve service goals. Provide case management services such as connections to mental health or substance use disorder treatment, housing, employment, and assistance with transportation for case‑related needs. Conduct psychosocial history interviews with clients. Develop mitigation memoranda for use in clients’ cases. Occasionally testify or provide in‑court advocacy. Research And Investigation Request and review records. Conduct literature reviews and social science research as part of mitigation work. Identify and interview mitigation witnesses. Collaboration And Communication Develop mitigation themes and evidence in collaboration with attorneys and other members of the defense team. Draft formal and informal mitigation memoranda. Engage with community organizations to increase access to services for clients. Provide support and guidance to MSPD staff in your assigned region. Supervision And Training Supervise HDS interns. Help collect and analyze data tracking holistic defense work and its impact. Help onboard new HDS team members. Education And Experience Master’s degree from an accredited college or university with specialization in psychology, social work, sociology, or a closely related field; Master’s in Social Work preferred. Relevant experience may substitute. Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities Knowledge of or ability to learn about available community-based social services. Understanding of the intersection of criminal defense and social work, and mitigation practice. Knowledge of the collateral consequences of criminal charges and convictions. Effective supervisory and management techniques preferred. Strong organizational and time management skills for handling a diverse workload and competing priorities. Excellent interpersonal, teamwork, and communication skills for effective performance in office, organizational, and criminal legal system settings. Ability to treat clients, coworkers, and colleagues with respect at all times. General knowledge of social systems casework and human behavior. Ability to apply knowledge to client advocacy. Ability to conduct trauma-informed psychosocial interviews and prepare clear and concise written advocacy. Ability to work independently and take initiative. Ability to travel regularly within the assigned region. This position may support large geographic areas. Benefits The successful candidate will receive competitive compensation and State of Missouri benefits including a defined pension plan, generous leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. MSPD can assist with relocation expenses up to $2,500 for qualifying moves at least 60 miles away from prior residence. The salary listed reflects the base pay rate and may increase with prior state service subject to eligibility requirements. Please note: This position is contingent upon approved funding and final hiring decisions are subject to the availability of allocated funds. Contact: View email address on click.appcast.io #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Missouri