Coordinator II, Victims Assistance

Hidalgo County•Edinburg, TX

About The Position

Coordinates support services and information for crime victims and their families in compliance with the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, ensuring that victims and/or their families are afforded their legal rights. Prepares information required for presentation of victims’ court cases. This security-sensitive position requires a high level of confidentiality and involves gathering, disseminating, and storing sensitive crime-victim documents and offense reports. A background investigation is required. Duties may involve travel to locations inside and outside Hidalgo County to interview victims and gather information.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in psychology, social work, criminal justice, or a related field.
One year of experience in a social service agency; experience dealing with sexual assault and domestic violence issues is preferred.
Experience and ability to respond supportively to people in crisis.
Knowledge of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Working knowledge of Texas laws concerning domestic violence and sexual assault, and the justice system’s response to these crimes.
Familiarity with social and legal services, resources, and procedures available in the Hidalgo County area.
Personal health, social maturity, and emotional stability adequate to fulfill the position’s functions.
Current, valid Texas motor vehicle operator’s license and ability to be insured by the County’s insurance carrier.
Ability to maintain full confidentiality concerning victims and their families and to follow strict rules for gathering, disseminating, and storing sensitive victim documents, reports, and other information.
Ability to respond with sensitivity and awareness to victims of crime.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret statutory provisions, medical records and reports, business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and government regulations.
Ability to read, write, and speak both English and Spanish.
Experience preparing summary reports, chronologies, and analyses of medical records.
Excellent interviewing and counseling skills.
Ability to plan and organize effectively and establish and maintain effective working relationships with attorneys, county employees and officials, victim/witness advocacy and assistance groups, court personnel, and the public.
Ability to present information effectively and respond to questions from attorneys, victims, supervisors, advocacy and assistance groups, and the public.
Experience with word processing and general knowledge of personal computers.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Publisher; familiarity with other Microsoft Windows products and related software.
Comfort using newer technologies, including government applications and databases.

Responsibilities

Coordinate with local community agencies and victim advocacy organizations to ensure victims are aware of their rights.
Assist attorneys with case staffing and ensure cases are assigned as necessary.
Provide training or education to crime victims and the community.
Assist victims with Victim Impact Statements, Crime Victims’ Compensation applications, Crime Loss forms, and related documents.
Coordinate the gathering and submission of information for payment of medical examinations under the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
Assist with crisis counseling as necessary.
Prepare and maintain statistical records and enter case-file information into a tracking system.
Refer victims or their families to social service agencies that may provide additional assistance.
Protect the rights of victims and survivors of violent crimes.
Perform administrative duties, including preparing correspondence and processing incoming mail for case files.
Provide training within the criminal justice system and community to increase understanding of family violence dynamics and promote sensitivity to victims.
Perform related work as assigned.