The Victim Advocate/Domestic Violence Specialist is responsible for providing information, counseling, supportive and resource/referral services to victims of crime.  The purpose of this position is to function in the area of advocacy for victims of crimes.  Employees in this classification provide specialized assistance to victims of crime through coordinating intervention actions, providing support counseling, conducting case management, disseminating criminal justice information, and facilitating the use of resources and community services.

To be successful in this position, you must have a nonjudgemental attitude.  A nonjudgmental attitude means:

1. Ability to establish empathetic relationship with clients
2. Ability to communicate well, both verbally and in writing
3. Ability to work well independently and as a team member

1. Maintain current knowledge of domestic violence issues including, but not limited to:
   1. The dynamics of abusive relationships
   2. The cycle of violence
   3. Victims’ rights, domestic and sexual violence and elderly abuse laws
   4. The criminal justice process
2. Contact victims of domestic violence, sexual violence and/or elderly abuse to advise them of the first appearance hearings and outcomes (Magistrate Court) of their perpetrators, and to advise them of their rights, and available resources. Collect additional contact information for future interaction.
3. Provide courtroom orientation and accompaniment services to victims attending first appearance (Magistrate Court), Division Court, and restraining order hearings.
4. Assist victims to understand pro-arrest and pro-prosecution policies.
5. Contact victims after Magistrate hearings to advise them of the outcome of these hearings
6. Conduct lethality assessments and assist crime victims in formulating viable safety plans.
7. Refer crime victims to appropriate community resources.
8. Assist victims in making application for Crime Victim Compensation where appropriate.
9. Educate victims about domestic and/or sexual violence and/or elderly abuse.
10. Act as a liaison between victims and attorneys, service providers or other involved agencies.
11. Document contacts and maintain daily statistics.
12. Facilitate DV OPTIONS Groups regarding Waiver of Prosecution Process.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in Social Services, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or related field supplemented by up to one (1) year previous experience that provides broad knowledge of social service agencies and community resource referral entities, as well as accepted counseling principles and practices, an equivalent combination of education, training, an experience.
 

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