Victim Witness Advocate

Milwaukee County•Milwaukee, WI

5d•$22 - $34•Onsite

About The Position

Provide comprehensive services as mandated by the Wisconsin Constitution and Chapter 950 of the Wisconsin Statutes to crime victims and witnesses. The Victim Witness Advocates (VW) are required to work on-site 100% of assigned workday due to the nature of the position. Face to face interactions is needed to meet the demands of engaging victims and witnesses in the criminal justice process.

Requirements

Current resident of the United States
Valid Wi Driver’s license and insurance both maintained throughout employment.
Bachelor or higher degree required in Criminal Justice or Human Services
At least (1) one year of experience providing counseling or services to crime victims/clients
Knowledge of all related computer and software applications, such as word processing and spreadsheets (Microsoft Word and Excel)
Knowledge of special needs and problems of crime victims/witnesses and sensitivity to individuals with special needs, children, and older adults.
Ability to collaborate and maintain relationships with community agencies, service providers, and law enforcement.
Knowledge of the application of social work theories, practices, and techniques required.
Knowledge of the criminal and juvenile justice systems and Wisconsin Statutes Ch: 950 and 48
Knowledge of community resources for crime victims and witnesses. Proficient in Microsoft Word.

Responsibilities

Provide services to crime victims/witnesses. Management of criminal juvenile court caseload, ensuring all victims/ witnesses are treated properly during course of case prosecution. Orientate clients to their rights, the criminal justice system, and referral resources.
Interpret to witnesses the importance of participation. Reassure and persuade reluctant witnesses to cooperate with prosecution. Identify and reduce barriers for cooperation. Refer witnesses when appropriate to Witness Protection Program to ensure their safety.
Maintain on-going contact with witnesses to inform them of case status, provide supportive counseling to alleviate trauma of victimization and assess the need for information and referral to other community resources.
Prepare victims/witnesses to testify in criminal/juvenile court hearings; provide escort and accompaniment to court; arrange and or provide transportation; place victims/witnesses on call or notify of last-minute changes to reduce the number of unnecessary appearances.
Orient victims to the Crime Victim Compensation Program and assist with completing applications and gathering required information. Assist with VINE registration, which allows the Dept. of Corrections to notify victim/witness upon release or escape of a defendant.
Inform prosecutor of concerns or problems raised by victims/witnesses. Communicate victims wishes concerning the prosecution, outcomes, and plea/sentencing negotiations. Gather documentary evidence relative to restitution and notify court. Assist with crime impact statements
Coordinate property recovery for victims when property is no longer needed for evidence. Assist witnesses in applying for fees and authorized expense reimbursement. Intervene with schools, employment, and insurance companies on victim’s behalf. Obtain civil protection orders.
Coordinate travel arrangements and lodging; prepare affidavits and court orders for court approval; organize with prosecutor the order and appearance of witnesses in court; schedule appearances of expert witnesses; and obtain authorization for release of medical records.
Coordinate subpoena service and recalls with clerks and process servers. Update victims/witnesses’ information to remain current. Use search engines and other methods as necessary. Enter notes and case information in PROTECT for each victim/witness as case is worked.
Mentor and train students, interns, and volunteers. Conduct community presentations and attend job fairs and other crime victim events. Assist volunteers in staffing the victim/witness waiting rooms.