Sexually Violent Predator (SVP) Advocate

DHRM•Richmond, VA

About The Position

The Sexually Violent Predator (SVP) Advocate provides victim notification, advocacy, case coordination, and support to victims involved in Virginia’s SVP Civil Commitment process and other assigned victim service matters. The Advocate works with victims, OAG attorneys, courts, law enforcement, Commonwealth’s Attorneys, Victim/Witness Programs, and other partners to help ensure victims receive timely information, support, and access to services. The position also supports activities funded through the Victim Witness Grant and maintains documentation of grant-funded services, activities, time, and program data. The role includes victim-centered and trauma-informed advocacy, case management, program data tracking, and grant compliance. The Advocate maintains confidential case files and accurate records across required systems, helps prepare information for program and grant reporting, and assists with identifying service gaps and areas for improvement. The Advocate also participates in grant monitoring, reporting, audits, corrective actions, and required compliance training as needed.

Requirements

Knowledge of victim-centered and trauma-informed services.
Understanding of confidentiality, privacy, and safety considerations for victims of crime.
Strong organizational, case management, documentation, and recordkeeping skills.
Ability to handle highly sensitive and confidential participant information.
Ability to accurately document grant-funded activities, time, services, and program data across multiple funding sources.
Ability to maintain appropriate separation and documentation of activities supported by different grants.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to communicate effectively and compassionately with victims and survivors.
Ability to coordinate effectively with government agencies and community partners.
Ability to identify and report documentation, participant safety, or compliance concerns.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, public policy, public health, or equivalent.
Experience working with victims of domestic violence, sexual violence, stalking, human trafficking, or other violent crimes.
Knowledge of Virginia victims’ rights laws and victim service systems.
Experience working with state or federal grant-funded programs, including programs supported by multiple funding sources.
Experience providing training, outreach, or technical assistance.

Responsibilities

Notify victims about SVP hearings, court dates, case developments, and other relevant information.
Provide trauma-informed and victim-centered advocacy and support.
Explain the SVP Civil Commitment process, victims’ rights, court procedures, and available services.
Assist victims in preparing for and participating in court proceedings.
Connect victims with appropriate community, state, and federal resources.
Coordinate with OAG attorneys, Commonwealth’s Attorneys, Victim/Witness Programs, law enforcement, courts, and other agencies.
Maintain accurate victim contact information, case notes, referrals, service records, and confidential case files.
Respond to Victim Services calls, emails, and other inquiries as assigned.
Maintain timely and accurate information in VSDCS, NAAVI, CIMS, and other required systems.
Track victim services, referrals, notifications, court activities, and other program activities; assist in reviewing data for accuracy and completeness.
Provide information needed for program and grant reporting and assist the Director of Victim Services in identifying service gaps, program needs, accomplishments, and areas for improvement.
Perform advocacy and victim service activities consistent with approved grant goals and program requirements.
Document grant-funded services and activities, including victim contacts, notifications, appellate proceedings, case coordination, referrals, partner meetings, trainings, and outreach.
Maintain an activity calendar for significant grant-related activities.
Complete timekeeping records accurately and document time spent on grant-funded activities, maintaining appropriate separation and documentation across funding sources.
Assist with grant reports, performance measures, monitoring, audits, compliance requirements, and corrective actions as needed.
Participate in required grant timekeeping, confidentiality, and compliance training.
Notify the Director of Victim Services of documentation, reporting, or compliance concerns.
Provide training and technical assistance to professional partners.