Alternative Sentencing Worker I

Kentucky Personnel Cabinet•Louisville, KY

7d•$39,285 - $58,927•Hybrid

About The Position

Alternative sentencing is a program designed to benefit both the community and the client by addressing the overload of drug-related cases in the criminal justice system. Instead of incarcerating nonviolent offenders, which is costly and does not solve addiction, this program offers a long-term solution. The Department of Public Advocacy represents indigent clients in criminal cases. This position is for individuals with a strong desire to help others overcome substance abuse and mental health issues, assist the less fortunate, reunite families, and help individuals become productive members of their community. The Alternative Sentencing Worker (ASW) will work as part of a defense team in the Louisville Trial Office, assisting clients charged with criminal offenses related to substance abuse or mental health. The role involves conducting assessments to identify client needs and preparing alternative sentences, which typically include treatment components such as inpatient, outpatient, or short/long-term mental health or substance abuse treatment. Please note that due to applicable state or federal laws, employees in this position are prohibited from using medical cannabis, even though it has been legalized in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Employees are expected to multitask, prioritize, possess strong organizational skills, and communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. The ASW must be able to work independently and be self-motivated, acting as an advocate for the client by listening, exploring options, and persistently fighting for their best interests.

Requirements

Graduate of an accredited college or university with a master's degree in social work, sociology, psychology, family studies, counseling or a related field.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license prior to employment.
Must maintain any required licensure(s), certification(s), or other credentials for the length of employment.

Nice To Haves

Degree or relevant work experience in social work, psychology, sociology, or drug counseling.
Interest in helping adults and juveniles with mental health or substance use disorders.
Strong organization skills.
Ability to work on a team.
Ability to communicate well both verbally and through written documents and reports.
Ability to work alone and be self-motivated.

Responsibilities

Work as a member of the defense team in the Louisville Trial Office to assist clients charged with criminal offenses related to substance abuse or mental health.
Conduct assessments to determine the client’s specific needs.
Prepare an alternative sentence, typically involving a treatment component (inpatient, outpatient, short or long-term mental health or substance abuse treatment).
Listen to clients, explore options, and advocate for the client.
Multitask and prioritize.
Work on a team and communicate well both verbally and through written documents and reports.
Work alone and be self-motivated.