Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Advocate I

Jefferson County•Or, OR

About The Position

The Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Advocate assists victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking throughout the investigation and prosecution process. The position works under the general supervision of the District Attorney and the direct supervision of the Director of Victim Assistance. The advocate provides crisis support, information, referrals, court-process assistance, and help with related practical needs, while coordinating with victims, law enforcement, prosecutors, and social service agencies. The position includes after-hours on-call work as part of the Emergency Victim Assistance Response Program and requires successful completion of a nine-month probationary period.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Knowledge of the legal system and victims’ rights.
Excellent communication skills.
Ability to maintain a non-judgmental attitude toward people whose values and beliefs may differ from the advocate’s.
Ability to work independently while providing regular feedback to the supervisor and other staff.
Ability to communicate professionally and effectively, act ethically, and maintain productive working relationships.
Ability to comply with the laws, policies, and procedures governing the District Attorney’s Office, Jefferson County, and the Victim Assistance Program.
Ability to maintain confidential information.
Valid Oregon driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
Ability to sit or stand at a computer and use rapid finger, hand, and arm movements for extended periods.
Ability to sit, speak, and listen effectively; occasionally stand and lift, push, or pull more than 30 pounds.
Ability to work with people who are extremely upset.
Successful completion of a nine-month probationary period.

Nice To Haves

Public speaking skills are desirable.
Experience in criminal justice, social service, or a public agency is helpful.

Responsibilities

Establish timely contact with victims, preferably in person, and review in-custody lists and new-case intake.
Support victims throughout investigation and prosecution; provide case-status updates and explain victims’ rights.
Document victim contacts and relevant information in District Attorney case files.
Provide information and referrals, and help victims identify personal and practical needs such as safety, security, and childcare.
Keep the District Attorney handling each case advised of the victim’s status and any concerns.
Prepare victims for Grand Jury proceedings and court testimony; accompany victims to court hearings and assist with courtroom logistics.
Help arrange transportation, babysitting, and other logistics so victims can appear in court.
Assist in establishing victims’ financial losses for restitution and, when appropriate, applying for Crime Victim’s Compensation.
Serve as a liaison among victims, law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and social service agencies.
Assist victims with verbal or written statements to the court at sentencing and send sentencing order packets.
Coordinate awareness and prevention activities with community partners; may teach classes.
Assist victims with orders of protection; follow up on Restraining Orders and No Contact Orders and update staff.
Update materials distributed to victims concerning Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking.
Keep the Director informed of problems or concerns, including personality conflicts.
Research updated addresses when victim notifications are returned.
Maintain victim-contact statistics for monthly reports and provide surveys to victims.
Participate on committees addressing victims’ issues.
Work on-call after regular working hours and assist victims in crisis by phone or in person at a hospital or public place.
Maintain regular attendance and perform other duties supporting the position’s objectives and prosecutions.