Victim Services Advocate

Henry County Government•No. 1 Courthouse Square McDonough, GA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The purpose of this position is to assist victims of violent crimes, sexual abuse, and domestic crimes through the judicial process. An incumbent in this position serves at the pleasure of the Judge or other appointing authority.

Requirements

Requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, or related field and one (1) year of related experience in social work, counseling, law enforcement or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s licence.
Knowledge of rights guaranteed to victims under Georgia law.
Knowledge of community resources available to victims and their families.
Knowledge of court proceedings and timelines.
Knowledge of victim confidentiality guidelines.
Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.
Knowledge of subpoena processes and procedures.
Skill in assessing victim needs and identifying available resources to meet those needs.
Skill in providing information regarding court procedures in a clear and understandable manner to victims and their families.
Skill in coordinating with multiple internal and external partners to provide services to victims.
Skill in oral and written communication.
Skill in solving problems.
Ability to meet and deal with employees and the public in an effective and courteous manner.
Ability to get along with others, and work effectively with the public and co-workers.
Ability to work flexible hours as needed.
Ability to multi-task and work within deadlines.
Ability to deal with confidential and sensitive matters.
Ability to use computers for data entry, word processing, and other relevant purposes.

Responsibilities

Explains to victims the Victim Bill of Rights and judicial processes pursuant to Marsy’s Law and state statutes; assists prosecutors and court staff with ensuring that victims’ rights are maintained.
Provides support and assistance to victims, their families, and witnesses during the criminal judicial process.
Serves as liaison between victims, their families, law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and court personnel to ensure consistent communication and positive community relations.
Notifies victims and witnesses of any status changes in case proceedings, including court dates for First Appearance, Preliminary Hearings, bond hearings, pleas, changes in custody status, probation revocation hearings, case disposition, parole eligibility, etc.
Collaborates with community agencies to make referrals related to providing emergency shelter, addressing medical needs, and assists with the individualized needs of victims.
Creates and updates profiles in the software system to include victim information, contact notes, and related documents used to maintain Victim Services Statistical Report (VSSR) data.
Collaborates with prosecutorial team to determine appropriate plea recommendations for cases involving victims; communicates those recommendations to victims.
Generates subpoenas for law enforcement, witnesses, and victims involved in criminal cases.
Assists victims in recovering from financial loss as a result of crimes through restitution; assists with filing compensation claims for medical expenses, lost wages, counseling services, funeral expenses, and other crime related losses; ensures the timely submission of required documents; follows-up on claims processes.
Evaluates and identifies the needs of victims and families and refers victims and families to community resources.
Accompanies victims, witnesses, and their families to court hearings, trials, and attorney interviews to provide support and guidance.
Manages calendars of assigned Assistant District Attorneys to ensure that meetings with victims, witnesses, and law enforcement occur prior to court hearings.
Adheres to strict confidentiality guidelines to ensure the privacy and safety of victims and their families.
Monitors Victim Services Unit email and phone line for updates regarding victim and witness availability for court proceedings and proceeds in a timely manner to confirm necessary court appearances.
Performs other related duties as assigned.