Victim Advocate FT

Lancaster County•Lancaster, PA

22h

About The Position

Effectively and efficiently provide direct advocacy, support, and information to victims of domestic violence crimes, family members, and witnesses in the justice systems. Accompany, assist, and intervene to ensure crime victims’ rights are upheld.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a human service or criminal justice related field, OR Associate’s degree in a human service or criminal justice related field and a combination of work experience in a public or private agency providing direct human services to clients, OR Any equivalent combination of education, victim services experience and training that provides the knowledge and skills to do this job.
Successful completion of a background investigation verified by PSP criminal record, FBI fingerprint and PA ChildLine Child Abuse History clearances. The background investigation includes a pre-employment drug screen, questionnaire and examination of the driving record and social history.
Must complete specialized domestic violence training.
Must possess a valid driver’s license and have the use of a personal vehicle
Knowledge or and commitment to the rights of crime victims
Knowledge of the dynamics of domestic violence.
Ability to maintain confidentiality
Ability to plan, document, and execute all responsibilities relating to crime victims
Knowledge of the criminal justice system, the juvenile justice system, and the protection order process
Ability to manage conflicting priorities, multi-task and organize work
Ability to problem-solve, work independently, and follow directions.
Ability to interact with people of varying socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds.
Demonstrate excellent communication skills (written, phone and in-person) with clients and staff.
Knowledge of basic computer skills and the ability to learn various programs required for completion and documentation of work.
Must have the ability to work independently.
Must have the ability to transport self to various locations for hearings, meetings, and other appointments and to access those locations with reasonable accommodations.

Nice To Haves

Experience with domestic violence victims preferred.
Bilingual preferred, but not required

Responsibilities

Provide basic services to domestic violence victims, witnesses and significant others of crimes committed by adult offenders, providing information about the justice systems and the protection from abuse process, information about victims’ rights and participation in the system, orientation, and accompaniment of victims/witnesses to court, and assistance with restitution and property return.
Fulfill mandated responsibilities under the Crime Victim’s Act and advocate for victims’ rights.
Assess, initiate, and manage Victims Compensation Assistance Program claims.
Assist in witness notification, orientation, and accompaniment to court proceedings.
Provide coverage of general cases as staffing needs require.
Serve as a liaison between police, prosecutors, and victims.
Refer victims to other appropriate social service agencies and follow-up on those referrals.
Perform other VOCA-eligible duties as assigned.