Victim Advocate (4778-31)

Hamilton County Government • Cincinnati, OH

12d • Onsite

About The Position

The Victim & Witness Advocate Program works with victims and witnesses to keep them advised of the criminal law process and the status of their case. Victim Advocates work in the Common Pleas, Municipal and Juvenile Courts, assisting victims, witnesses, and the Assistant Hamilton County Prosecuting Attorney. Advocates sit with victims in courtrooms during trial and assist with invoking rights under Ohio's Victim Rights, including the right to be present/heard and to receive notification of court proceedings or offender release. Advocates serve as a liaison for counseling and compensation sources.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree required
• Background check required
• Ability to manage and complete multiple tasks
• Can effectively work is fast-paced and high-stress environment
• Team player with strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Reliable attendance
• Highly organized, detail oriented and quick learning ability when new tasks are assigned
• Flexible and motivated
• Strong computer skills and comfortable learning and navigating new and different data systems

Nice To Haves

• BSW, MSW, LSW, Psychology, or Criminal Justice degree preferred, but not required
• Knowledge of legal proceedings and terms helpful
• Knowledge of grant management and application process helpful

Responsibilities

• Act as support person for victims
• Accompany victims to court proceedings
• Serve as liaison between victims and Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
• Provide information to victims about the court system
• Provide victim rights information
• Make referrals to social service agencies (counseling, support groups, shelters, etc.)
• Notify victims of grand jury results, trial dates, continuances, bond hearings, sentencing dates, and any other hearings
• Assist victims in preparing Victim Impact Statements
• Provide victims with information and applications for Victims of Crime Compensation; can also assist victims in completing the application
• Assist victims in obtaining protection orders
• Provide information regarding VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) - the registration system for notification of an offender's release
• Assist victims with Safe at Home address confidentiality program (assistants are Certified Application Assistants through the Ohio Secretary of State)
• Obtain medical releases and medical records
• Coordinate scheduling of interpreters
• Provide victims with parole board and post adjudication information
• Coordinate with internal teams to secure grants to support victim services by compiling data, researching grant opportunities, and monitoring grant compliance.
• Staff community meetings on behalf of the HCPO that support victims of crime.
• Participate in and lead community presentations on behalf of the HCPO on topics related to victim services
• Professionalism and confidentiality are essential
• Other duties as assigned

Benefits

• Full-time role; paid bi-weekly; paid vacation, sick time, two annual personal days.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Medical, HRA, Dental, Vision, Employer-Paid Life Insurance, Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility, Wellness Incentives, Employee Assistance Plan.
• Ohio Public Employee’s Retirement System which includes a 10% employee contribution and a 14% employer contribution.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level