Crime Victim Advocate

New York City, NY • Bronx, NY

156d

About The Position

The Office of the District Attorney, Bronx County ("BXDA") is charged with the twin goals of ensuring public safety and striving for equal justice for the over 1.4 million members of the Bronx County community. By "Pursuing Justice with Integrity," the BXDA places a focus on assistance for crime victims while simultaneously ensuring fairness to defendants. Moreover, the BXDA aims to balance the need to seek appropriate punishment for certain crimes while recognizing when punitive measures do not adequately advance justice. By recognizing these significant distinctions and acting accordingly, BXDA has established a standard of excellence in the representation of the Bronx community at large, which continues to grow stronger every day. In furtherance of this mission, the Crime Victims Assistance Unit (CVAU), within the Special Victims Division, provides supportive services to victims of crime in the Bronx. The CVAU is currently seeking a well-qualified Crime Victim Advocate to assist survivors of crimes including Domestic Violence. The Advocate will aid victims of crimes, including domestic violence, in crisis intervention, advocacy, and assistance in filing a claim for victim compensation through the NYS Office of Victim Services, navigation through the court system, court accompaniment, and referrals for other services.

Requirements

• High school graduation or equivalent and three years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to duties described above; or
• Education and/or experience which is equivalent to '1' above.

Nice To Haves

• A Bachelor's Degree required in a human services/ social work field by the candidate's start date or one (1) year of victim services provision.
• Fluent Spanish speaker required.
• A Bachelor's in Social Work (BSW) or other social service degree preferred.
• Past advocacy experience through internships helpful.
• Knowledge of the neighborhoods and population of Bronx County preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast paced non structured environment.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Ability to both interact and be comfortable with a diverse population.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office particularly Word, Excel, and Outlook.

Responsibilities

• Interview crime victims and their family to determine needs.
• Connect victims, witnesses and their families with concrete and therapeutic services.
• Explain Criminal Justice process to clients.
• Assist with Orders of Protection and Registration for notification of Inmate's release.
• Assist clients with the completion of and filing of victim compensation claims with the State Office of Victim Services.
• Prepare letters and forms to assist with other entitlements.
• Advocate with public and private agencies.
• Escort clients to court and confer with Assistant District Attorneys.
• All other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility for federal loan forgiveness programs and state repayment assistance programs.

What This Job Offers

• Industry: Justice, Public Order, and Safety Activities
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees