Misdemeanor Probation Specialist

Pasco County • New Port Richey, FL

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The role of Misdemeanor Probation Specialist involves interviewing and supervisory work with offenders assigned to the County Probation Section. This position requires knowledge of the criminal justice system, court processes, and legal procedure. The specialist will attend and testify during legal proceedings, communicate observations and recommendations to the Court regarding probation conditions and alleged violations, and instruct probationers on court-ordered requirements. They will also monitor probationers' activities, prepare violations when appropriate, ensure compliance with probation conditions and financial obligations, and verify compliance/non-compliance with court orders. The role involves preparing and completing applicable forms, reports, and memoranda, and maintaining a documented caseload of 180-300 cases while multitasking. Strong interpersonal skills are essential for effective interaction with a diverse population.

Requirements

• Knowledge of penal rules and regulations and jail procedures.
• Knowledge of skillful interview techniques.
• Knowledge of court procedures and court appearance scheduling as it relates to first appearance, preliminary hearings, arraignments, and trials.
• Knowledge of the laws and procedures relating to maintenance of confidential court records.
• Ability to become familiar with criminal justice agencies and applicable community resources.
• Ability to maintain an effective working relationship with court and law enforcement personnel and officials, other employees, and the general public.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbal, written, and visual communication.
• Graduation from an accredited college or university with an Associate degree with major course work in criminology/paralegal or a related field.
• A minimum of two (2) years' investigative, criminal justice/paralegal, or related experience.
• Possession of a valid Florida driver's license.

Nice To Haves

• Computer entry experience preferred.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred.

Responsibilities

• Performs intake interviews to verify information and establish goals.
• Conducts monthly follow-up interviews to document progress or lack thereof.
• Attends and testifies during legal proceedings.
• Communicates observations and recommendations to the Court regarding probation conditions and alleged violations.
• Instructs probationers regarding court-ordered requirements and conditions of probation and provides referrals to appropriate agencies.
• Monitors probationers' activities pertaining to conduct and prepares violations of probation when appropriate.
• Ensures that the probationer is maintaining all the conditions of probation and meeting all financial obligations as court ordered.
• Verifies compliance/non-compliance and reports back to the Courts.
• Prepares and completes applicable and required forms, reports, and memoranda.
• Maintains a thoroughly documented caseload of 180-300 cases while multi-tasking between interviews, preparing documents and answering phone calls.
• Effectively interacts and communicates with a diverse population and wide range of people.
• Performs related work as required.

Benefits

• All employees will be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.
• Preference in appointment will be given to preference-eligible applicants.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree