Pretrial Program Specialist

Polk County • Bartow, FL

19h • Onsite

About The Position

The Pretrial Program Specialist is responsible for assisting the Court with daily First Appearance proceedings by preparing files for the presiding Judge to review. These files include Pretrial Release recommendations, Problem-Solving Court referrals, the defendant’s prior criminal history and any other court documents deemed necessary and applicable. This position requires significant communication and personal interaction with Judges, judicial assistants, the State Attorney’s Office, the Office of the Public Defender, the Clerk of Courts, private attorneys, and the public for the purpose of collecting, verifying and disseminating information.

Requirements

• Graduate of an accredited high school or possess an acceptable equivalency diploma.
• Must possess a valid driver license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver license at the time of employment within this classification.
• Knowledge of the Pretrial Services organization and function of the court system; court procedures and operations; and proficiency in Microsoft products and other various applications.
• Working knowledge and understanding of investigative procedures and laws related to the receipt, maintenance, and distribution of confidential court records.
• Knowledge of penal code regulations and jail procedures.
• Knowledge of laws and procedures relating to maintenance of confidential court records.
• Ability to become familiar with Criminal Justice Agencies and applicable community resources.
• Capability to maintain an effective working relationship with court, law enforcement officials and other personnel in the public.
• Ability to work independently, but also in a team dynamic to accomplish work tasks in a timely manner as well as independently.
• Work well with others in a fast -paced , high -energy environment.
• Effectively trouble shoot and provide solutions on demand and as applicable.
• Communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing.
• Possess strong observation and organization skills.
• Maintain a high rate of productivity in a pressurized and fast paced environment.
• Work effectively with community partners to include, but not limited to, the AOC, Office of the State Attorney; Office of the Public Defender; Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Community supervision agencies, etc.
• Perform all essential job duties as identified and required by the Court Services Division.

Nice To Haves

• The ability to cover additional shifts when directed to do so by either the PTS Management or Division Director, which may include days, nights and/or holidays.
• Accountability, regular attendance, punctuality, and integrity are essential requirements of this position.
• Must have own daily transportation and telephone as employee is subject to call.
• Applicant/employee shall be fingerprinted and subject to personal background investigations procedures to ascertain an evaluation and determination of moral character.
• Must successfully clear pre-employment psychological evaluations.
• Must undergo a Level 2 (FDLE) screening submitted electronically before commencing work. This certification must be maintained as a condition of employment.
• 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 residents.

Responsibilities

• Prepare files for each defendant listed on the daily First Appearance docket, ensuring that the accuracy of the defendant’s arrest documentation, prior criminal history and any other applicable paperwork has been compiled and reviewed for quality assurance prior to dissemination to the Court.
• Communicate with Judges, judicial assistants, the State Attorney’s Office, the Public Defender’s Office, and private attorneys to verify that the necessary paperwork from Pretrial Services (PTS) has been provided. This includes providing the parties with any updated information if it becomes available prior to court.
• Attempt to contact victims of crimes involving domestic violence to receive their input for defendants seeking bond and/or Pretrial Release consideration.
• Provide the Court with Pretrial Release recommendations based upon careful review of each defendant’s arrest documents, criminal history, victim input, and other pertinent information obtained during the defendant’s initial interview with Pretrial Services.
• Provide possible Problem-Solving Court referrals based upon review of each defendant.
• Following daily First Appearance Hearings complete and distribute Pre-Trial Release Orders to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and the Polk County Electronic Monitoring Office.
• Complete Judicial Decision in the Pretrial Services case management app and upload all necessary documents to case file.
• Prepare victim letters for applicable cases.
• Take notes during the First Appearance docket.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED