Legal Advocate

A Safe Place Career • Waukegan, IL

10d • $25 - $27 • Onsite

About The Position

The Bilingual Legal Advocate provides advocacy and direct services to survivors of domestic violence under the Illinois Domestic Violence Act. This role supports survivors navigating the legal system, particularly those seeking Orders of Protection, and serves as a liaison with courts, law enforcement, and community partners. The position reports to the Director of Legal Advocacy and is based on-site in Waukegan, Illinois.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in counseling, social work, criminal justice, or a closely related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• A high school diploma (or GED) with 3–5 years of relevant experience working with survivors of domestic violence or within the criminal justice system may be considered
• Demonstrated experience in domestic violence advocacy and sensitivity to survivors' and children’s issues
• Bilingual required
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage confidential information
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse socio-economic, cultural, racial, and experiential backgrounds
• Commitment to the mission, philosophy, and values of A Safe Place, including a belief in creating a society free from violence

Responsibilities

• Legal Advocacy & Court Support Advocate on behalf of survivors within the court system, including the State’s Attorney’s Office and Lake County law enforcement agencies
• Assist survivors with the completion and filing of Orders of Protection
• Maintain communication with the State’s Attorney’s Office regarding A Safe Place courtroom services
• Participate in court-related processes and protocols as required
• Client Support & Safety Planning Provide survivor-centered advocacy, including safety planning and education on domestic violence dynamics
• Educate clients on services available through A Safe Place and facilitate access to internal programs
• Provide referrals to community-based and partner organizations as appropriate
• Training & Community Engagement Train staff, volunteers, law enforcement, and court personnel on domestic violence issues, the Illinois Domestic Violence Act, and local protocols
• Represent A Safe Place in community presentations and outreach efforts
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and agency-wide initiatives
• Administrative & Team Support Maintain confidential client files and complete data entry in accordance with agency policies
• Assist with developing and maintaining printed resources and legal advocacy packets
• Work collaboratively as a team member and support organizational goals
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Benefits

• Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance
• a Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• a 401(k) retirement plan
• generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level