Lay Legal Advocate - Mesa, AZ

A New Leaf•Mesa, AZ

6d•$21

About The Position

A New Leaf is committed to empowering individuals and enriching communities through transformative services. Our core values—Compassion, Passion for Results, Collaboration, Accountability, Integrity, and Conscientiousness—guide us in creating meaningful, lasting impacts in the communities we serve. Job Summary: The Legal Advocate provides direct advocacy to individuals impacted by domestic and sexual violence, offering support with court accompaniment, civil legal filings, and safety planning. This role conducts intake assessments, facilitates outreach, and collaborates with legal service providers to ensure trauma-informed care. The position involves regular travel throughout Northern Pinal and Eastern Maricopa Counties and requires accurate documentation in accordance with grant and legal standards.

Requirements

High school diploma, GED, or equivalent req
Minimum of six (6) months of experience working in legal or court systems, or in a closely related advocacy setting required
Demonstrated knowledge of domestic violence, sexual assault, social services, community resources, and the legal system
Effective interviewing, active listening, and crisis intervention skills required
Must Be At Least 21 Years of Age
Class One Fingerprint Clearance Card
DCS/DES Central Registry Background Check
Drug Screening
CPR/First Aid Certification
Therapeutic Options Training (Depending on Program)
Valid Unrestricted Driver’s License
Current Auto Liability Insurance
39 Month Motor Vehicle Record
Adhere to all organizational policies, including the Code of Conduct, professional standards, and relevant regulations.
As a mandated reporter under Arizona statute A.R.S. § 13-3620, you are required to immediately report any suspected abuse or neglect of a minor to your Supervisor, Manager, Director, Clinical Director, or Chief Officer, who will assist in making the appropriate report to authorities.
Reports should be directed to either the local law enforcement agency or child protective services (1-888-SOS-CHILD). Abuse suspected of involving a family member or legal guardian should be reported to child protective services, while other cases should be reported to law enforcement.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a related area (Social Work, Sociology, Psychology, Women’s Studies, Justice Studies, Criminal Justice, Pre-Law), preferred.
Bilingual in Spanish and English preferred

Responsibilities

Provide legal advocacy services to individuals impacted by domestic and sexual violence.
Conduct intake interviews and needs assessments for participants seeking general, community-based, or legal advocacy services.
Assist participants in developing individualized safety plans using a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach.
Help clients complete and file civil court documents, and provide court accompaniment and emotional support during civil, criminal, and domestic relations proceedings.
Establish and maintain office hours to accept referrals and offer client assistance.
Collaborate with internal staff to address participants’ basic needs and ensure coordinated support.
Build and maintain professional relationships with community agencies and legal service providers that support survivors.
Facilitate outreach presentations on domestic violence, sexual assault, legal processes, and safety planning to community members and potential clients.
Travel regularly throughout Northern Pinal County and Eastern Maricopa County to deliver services in community, court, or office-based settings.
Operate a personal or agency vehicle for work-related travel and client services.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation in client files, including intake forms, progress notes, and case closures, in accordance with legal and grant requirements.
Complete and assist with required weekly, monthly, and quarterly reports.
Attend required meetings, trainings, and professional development activities.
Lift and transport program-related materials weighing up to 30 lbs.
Perform other duties as assigned.