Mitigation Specialist, Second Look

Description

The Osborne Association serves individuals, families, and communities affected by the criminal justice system. Through our programs, we offer opportunities for people to heal from and repair harm, restore their lives, and thrive. We challenge systems rooted in racism and retribution and fight for policies and practices that promote true safety, justice, and liberation.

At Osborne, we are guided by core values and shared beliefs. We honor everyone's capacity to change, celebrate our shared humanity, are united in our pursuit of justice and equity, take all possible steps to keep our commitments, and advocate for people and principles with fierce and tenacious determination.  

The Mitigation Specialist will conduct a detailed investigation and biopsychosocial assessment of the client’s life to identify information that will assist the defense counsel in the pre-plea or pre-sentence phase of open criminal matters. The Mitigation Specialist will advocate before the Court, the District Attorney’s Office (DAO), and the Department of Probation (DOP) for incarceration and detention/bail reduction alternatives. 

This position has a hybrid work schedule. The Mitigation Specialist is expected to meet with clients, attend court appearances in person, and move flexibly between in-person and remote work as policies and needs shift. 

The Mitigation Specialist with an LMSW who is interested in pursuing clinical social work licensure will receive clinical supervision from an LCSW.

This position requires clearance by the New York City Department of Correction. Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain Department of Correction (DOC) clearance to work on Rikers Island and/or other applicable facilities operated by the Department of Correction.  

Salary: $70,000-$72,000 annually

Requirements

Essential Duties:

• Conduct client intakes and assessments with clients in detention at Rose M. Singer Center on Rikers Island via videoconference, which requires the Mitigation Specialist to be skilled in establishing rapport under challenging circumstances 
• Conduct screening of interested individuals to obtain their particular information to aid in soliciting cases. Locate and verify information such as court records, charges, rap sheet, attorney assignment, and court dates
• Support defense counsel by conducting a psychosocial assessment of the client
• Develop treatment and/or service plans, make all necessary referrals connected to that plan, and work with the clients to set and reach goals
• Advocate orally and in writing to the Court, DAO, DOP, and other entities
• Provide attorneys with a comprehensive client history through investigating the client’s background and conducting interviews with the client, family members, and other pertinent sources. Obtain various records and specialist reports/evaluations as indicated. Analyze such material to produce mitigation to support recommendations for release and pre-pleading advocacy
• Interact positively with members of the defense bar and other members of the criminal legal community to actively participate in the program’s outreach efforts to solicit new cases
• Orient clients to the program, describe program objectives, and provide ongoing support to clients and their family members
• Implement/execute referrals to treatment providers as developed in the client’s service plan
• Facilitate releases from court and transportation to programming when needed
• Maintain contacts with outside agencies to refer or obtain additional client services
• Actively support and observe clients in program participation, document progress, and provide ongoing feedback to maintain client self-awareness
• Make reports regarding client performance as requested to the Court and other supervising agencies, advocating as necessary
• Promote a positive image of the organization by communicating Osborne’s mission and programs to various sources
• Maintain rapport with clients and preserve client confidentiality
• In-person attendance is required to collaborate with co-workers
• Document client’s progress and development of cases in ECM and Google files
• Perform other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Criminal Justice, Social Work, Forensic Psychology, or a similar field
• A minimum of two years of progressively responsible professional experience in a criminal justice environment
• Experience conducting investigations and writing court reports such as Pre-Plea and Pre-Sentence Memorandums
• Experience working with clients with mental illness, intellectual and other developmental disabilities, and substance use disorders
• Experience advocating before the Court and familiarity with Court entities
• Experience managing a caseload of clients with varying needs and case-related deadlines, ensuring timely action and intervention.

Key Competencies:

• Excellent written and oral presentation skills, including public speaking skills 
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to collect, organize, analyze, and disseminate large amounts of data while succinctly summarizing conclusions to leadership and key stakeholders
• Ability to work effectively under tight deadlines, strong attention to detail, and time management skills
• Ability to work in teams and collaborate effectively with people in different functions
• Ability to take the initiative and drive for results
• Ability to communicate with all levels of the organization and build strong relationships

 Benefits of Working at Osborne:

'Generous benefits include four weeks of vacation, tuition reimbursement, a flexible work schedule, excellent Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance, and a 403(b) plan with a company match. Career development through ongoing training and individual development plans. The Osborne Association is an EEO/Affirmative Action employer and a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, unemployment status, or any other protected category. The Osborne Association takes affirmative action in support of its policy to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities. Thank you for your interest in the Osborne Association. Be sure to include a cover letter with your application.