Public Defender Social Worker

Macomb County Government • Martinsburg, WV

5d • $66,559 - $86,089

About The Position

Under supervision of the Public Defender, this position provides a holistic approach to social work for clients in the legal system. This includes assessing social, emotional, and practical needs like substance abuse, mental health, housing, and employment. Responsible for collaborating with legal counsel, connecting clients with vital community resources for treatment, support, and opportunity while guiding clients through the legal process and maintaining detailed case records to track progress and goals.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work (Limited Licensed Bachelor's Social Worker [LLBSW] or Licensed Bachelor's Social Worker [LBSW]) from an accredited college or university
• One (1) year providing social worker services to clients
• Licensed by the Michigan Board of Social Work to practice as a Social Worker
• Possession of a valid Michigan driver’s license and operable, insured automobile for authorized travel
• Knowledge of: Social work principles and practices
• Constitutional rights of clients
• HIPAA and other related laws and County policies
• Skill in: Prioritization and organization
• Word, Excel, Google products
• Performing data entry in a multiple software applications
• Building and maintaining interpersonal relationships
• Ability to: Present complex information with clarity and inclusivity
• Build and maintain relationships with a diverse population
• Work in an environment which embraces the county’s Dignity Campaign
• Effectively speak, write and understand the English language
• Understand and carry out oral and/or written instructions
• Accurately organize and maintain paper documents and electronic files
• Maintain the confidentiality of information and professional boundaries
• Work independently

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited college or university
• Previous social work experience with individuals involved in the criminal justice system
• Experience with the mental health system
• Effectively speak, write and understand a language other than English is preferred

Responsibilities

• Conducts client interviews and assessments, including meeting clients who may be incarcerated.
• Partners with clients, providing counseling, education, support and advocacy.
• Obtains and verifies background information.
• Gathers mitigating information through diverse sources, including interviews, healthcare providers, employers, and record reviews.
• Collaborates with defense teams to develop evidence-based advocacy for reduced sentences or alternative options.
• Maintains case files and manages a diverse caseload.
• Drafts advocacy documents to secure the best possible outcomes for clients.
• Establishes and maintains relationships with community agencies and referral partners.
• Guides clients by navigating the criminal justice system and securing appropriate referrals for assessment, treatment, housing, employment, and other critical support services.
• Mentors and supports social worker interns, fellows, and externs, providing comprehensive training and promoting self-care resources.
• Operates an automobile to perform assigned job functions.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Macomb County proudly offers medical, dental, and vision coverage, with no monthly premium to employees for single, two (2) person or family coverage.
• Health care, dental and vision benefits are effective the first day of employment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees