Client Relations Coordinator, Trial Bureau

Harris County•Houston, TX

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Harris County Public Defender’s Office is committed to providing high-quality, client-centered representation to individuals accused of criminal offenses who cannot afford counsel. Our office works collaboratively across legal and support teams to advocate for our clients, protect constitutional rights, and promote fairness within the criminal legal system. We value professionalism, integrity, teamwork, and compassionate public service. The Client Relations Coordinator serves as a bridge between clients, families, attorneys, and the broader defense team. This position helps clients and their support systems navigate the criminal legal system by providing information, support, education, and communication throughout the life of a case. The Client Relations Coordinator works with clients accused of a wide range of criminal offenses, from misdemeanor and state jail felony cases to the most serious first-degree felony charges. The position requires the ability to communicate effectively, build trust, and support individuals and families navigating complex legal challenges. Successful candidates must be able to engage with clients and families from all backgrounds with professionalism, empathy, respect, and a commitment to client-centered advocacy, regardless of the nature of the allegations. The Client Relations Coordinator works to build trust, reduce barriers to engagement, and ensure clients and families understand the legal process and available resources. Through advocacy, relationship-building, and effective communication, the Coordinator helps strengthen client-centered representation and supports the defense team's efforts to achieve the best possible outcomes for clients. The Harris County Public Defender's Office recognizes that meaningful experience can come from many places, including education, professional work, community engagement, and personal or family experiences. We welcome applicants whose backgrounds provide them with a unique understanding of the communities we serve. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment.

Requirements

High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent from an accredited educational institution.
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Strong interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to establish trust and maintain professional relationships with clients, families, and community stakeholders.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Willingness to work with individuals experiencing mental health challenges, substance use disorders, homelessness, poverty, trauma, or other significant life challenges.
Ability and willingness to visit correctional facilities, detention centers, courts, and community locations as needed.
Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, email, and case management systems.

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree, bachelor's degree, or relevant professional certification.
Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Experience working with justice-involved individuals, underserved populations, or community-based organizations.
Lived experience with the criminal legal system, either personally or through a family member or loved one.
Experience in client advocacy, peer support, case management, social services, community outreach, behavioral health, education, or related fields.
Knowledge of community resources and service systems within Harris County.
Experience working with culturally diverse populations.

Responsibilities

Serve as a primary point of contact for clients and family members seeking information, guidance, and support.
Build and maintain positive working relationships with clients, family members, and members of the defense team.
Assist clients and families in understanding court processes, case progression, and available resources.
Maintain regular communication with clients and their support systems to identify concerns, answer questions, and facilitate information sharing.
Work collaboratively with attorneys, investigators, social workers, mitigation specialists, and other members of the defense team.
Conduct outreach and meet with clients in detention facilities, court settings, and community locations as needed.
Help identify barriers affecting client engagement and assist in developing solutions to address those barriers.
Connect clients and families with community resources and support services when appropriate.
Assist clients and families in navigating systems that may impact case outcomes, including housing, employment, education, healthcare, and social services.
Document client interactions and maintain accurate records in accordance with office policies and procedures.
Support client-centered advocacy by ensuring client concerns, goals, and needs are effectively communicated to the defense team.
Participate in community outreach, education, and special projects as assigned.
Perform other duties as assigned.