Victim/Witness Advocate - 8129
About The Position
The San Francisco District Attorney's Office, specifically its Victim Services Division (VSD), is seeking a Victim/Witness Advocate. This role is an in-office, administrative position focused on supporting victims of crime who are experiencing crisis. The Advocate will coordinate legally mandated services under the Victim-Witness Assistance Program, as per California Penal Code Section 13835 and the Victims’ Bill of Rights. The position does not involve clinical services, therapeutic counseling, or long-term social work intervention. The VSD aims to make the criminal justice system humane and accessible by providing support to victims and their families throughout the process, from the aftermath of a crime through prosecution and post-verdict. The division includes the Victim Advocacy Unit, Victim Compensation Unit, and Restitution Unit. The Victim/Witness Advocate will work within the Victim Advocacy Unit.
Requirements
- A minimum of one (1) year of training, education, and/or experience in social welfare, behavioral science, criminology, or a closely related field and responsible social service, criminal justice or advocacy experience.
- Proficiency in Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint (training will be provided).
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
- Knowledge of record‑keeping principles and accurate work documentation.
- Ability to identify and respond to the needs of crime victims and survivors, including providing emergency assistance and referrals to appropriate agencies and service providers.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills appropriate for interaction with individuals from diverse educational, socioeconomic, and cultural backgrounds.
- Demonstrated initiative, maturity, integrity, accountability, and sound judgment.
- Experience working with communities impacted by violence.
Nice To Haves
- B.A. or higher in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology or closely related field, or equivalent experience.
- Training in domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, crisis response, 40-hour Entry Level Advocate, 24-hour Advanced Advocate and/or Mandated Reporter certifications.
- Strong understanding of trauma recovery, victim advocacy, mental health services, the criminal justice system, court processes, and public safety.
- Familiarity with San Francisco’s diverse neighborhoods and their community based programs.
- Experience collaborating across government agencies and facilitating multi‑agency processes.
- Demonstrated ability to take initiative, work independently, operate flexibly in a fast‑paced environment, and manage a high volume of cases.
- Background in crisis‑intervention techniques and trauma‑informed practices.
- Ability to speak Spanish or Cantonese strongly desired.
Responsibilities
- Advise and assist program participants in obtaining appropriate services, and refer them to professional psychological, health, medical, and social service care providers.
- Provide crisis intervention and emergency assistance to ensure timely and comprehensive responses to the immediate and long‑term needs of crime victims and survivors.
- Explain crime victims’ rights, the criminal justice system, and court proceedings, and provide information on case status and disposition.
- Assist in the preparation, verification, and submission of claims to the California Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board, and monitor claim progress and payment.
- Assist with arranging transportation for crime victims and survivors when appropriate.
- Conduct educational program presentations to City departments, community based partners, and residents in their communities.
- Provide translation services, orally or in written form, as required to meet division needs.
- Accompany crime victims and survivors to court proceedings and related hearings as needed.
- Become educated in and competently explain diversion, restorative justice practices, collaborative courts, and the importance of evidence based approaches within the criminal justice system.
- Actively participate in referrals to community based organizations and guide crime victims and survivors through the criminal justice process with the goal of promoting healing and recovery from trauma.
- Understand best practices in preparing victim impact statements and assist crime victims and survivors in crafting these statements to effectively communicate the impact of the offense to the court, including supporting opportunities for meaningful reconciliation when appropriate.
- Serve as a liaison between the department and members of the community when required.
Benefits
- Employee Benefits Overview
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
