Victim Advocate PT

Lancaster County•Lancaster, PA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Effectively and efficiently provide direct advocacy, support, and information to victims of domestic violence and other crime, family members, and witnesses in the justice systems with a focus on the ICC process (Indirect Criminal Contempt as a result of a violation of a Protection From Abuse order). 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, experience or training that provides the knowledge, experience or skills to do this job.
Knowledge and commitment to the rights of crime victims
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 from abuse process
Ability to deal with conflicting and demanding priorities, to multi-task and to organize work
Ability to communicate, 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.
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
Does not pose a threat to the health and safety of the department
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 and/or training in domestic violence preferred.
Bilingual preferred, not required

Responsibilities

Provide basic services to victims of crime including information, support, and advocacy
Provide services to domestic violence victims, witnesses and significant others involved in the ICC process, providing information about the justice systems and the protection from abuse process, information about victims’ rights and participation in the system, and court accompaniment for ICC hearings.
Fulfill mandated responsibilities under the Crime Victims 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.
Serve as a liaison between police, prosecutors, and victims
Refer victims to other appropriate social service agencies and to follow-up on those referrals
Perform other VOCA-eligible duties as assigned