Social Services Coordinator

This position performs a multitude of legal and court related duties assisting defendants and inmates involved with the court system, including victims and defendants, attorneys, and the judiciary. 

• Serves as a liaison between the court and outside agencies.

 

• Assists in the facilitation of effective case management and processing, including screening for program eligibility, scheduling court appearances, and monitoring compliance.

 

• Discusses court process with litigants and provides procedural guidance.

 

• Coordinates efforts with other staff and outside agencies.

 

• Attends hearings and other court proceedings.

 

• Operates applicable computer programs and databases.

 

• Provides directions to participants to ensure court orders are completed.

 

• Assists defendants and inmates in obtaining driver’s license, employment, etc. to maintain compliance with court orders.

 

• Performs related duties.

 
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED BY THE POSITION
 

• Knowledge of Municipal Court policies and procedures.

 

• Knowledge of city and departmental policies and procedures.

 

• Knowledge of accreditation guidelines, requirements, procedures, and processes for domestic violence programs.

 

• Knowledge of accreditation guidelines, procedures, and processes for health care organizations.

 

• Knowledge of the practice of social work including providing referral services, finding social services for individuals, and providing basic counseling to those in need.

 

• Knowledge of the principles, practices, and techniques of social work as they apply to crisis intervention.

 

• Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws pertaining to the ethical practice of social work relating to case management, assisting with case plans and service provisions, and allocation of resources for litigants.

 

• Knowledge of community services, resources and available local, state and other programs available for patient/client referral.  

 

• Knowledge of legal forms, documents, and terminology.

 

• Skill in the use of computers and job-related software programs.

 

• Skill in establishing priorities and organizing work.

 

• Skill in problem solving.

 

• Skill in interpersonal relations.

 

• Skill in dealing with the public.

 

• Skill in oral and written communication.

 
SUPERVISORY CONTROLS
 
The Municipal Court Administrator assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the results.
 
GUIDELINES
 
Guidelines include the City of Dothan Code of Ordinances, the Code of Alabama, and Alabama Rules of Criminal Procedure. These guidelines are generally clear and specific but may require some interpretation in application.
 
COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK
 

• The work consists of related social services duties. Strict deadlines and the need for accuracy contribute to the complexity of the position.

 

• The purpose of this position is to provide support for the litigants of Municipal Court. Successful performance contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of court operations.

 
CONTACTS
                                                                      

• Contacts are typically with co?workers, other city employees, judges, attorneys, other court personnel, litigants, family members of litigants, outside agencies, and members of the public.

 

• Contacts are typically to exchange information, resolve problems, justify matters, and provide services. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT
 

• The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk or table or while intermittently sitting, standing, walking, bending, crouching, or stooping. The employee frequently lifts light and heavy objects and climbs ladders.

• The work is typically performed in an office and courtroom.

 
SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY
 
None.

• Graduation from an accredited* college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Behavioral Science, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or closely related field; and

• Two (2) years recent experience providing social services to patients/clients to include placing in various organizations and social institutions through community resources.

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) preferred.

*An accredited agency is recognized by the U.S Department of Education (USDE) or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
 
NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
 

• A valid driver license and an acceptable driving record.  (PBA 09/10/01)

• May require the employee be bondable and qualify as a public Notary.

 

• An applicant for this position is subject to various background investigations up to and including a criminal, credit, past employment, and reference checks.

• Employees are required to submit to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with the City of Dothan policy which includes pre-employment and random tests for the duration of employment in this position. (PBA 08/13/12).

• Must meet the City of Dothan's employment physical standards which include drug/alcohol testing.

Qualified applicants will be evaluated on training and experience as documented on their application.  This evaluation will comprise 100% of their final grade.

Applicants with a disability who feel they need accommodation should contact the Personnel Department on or before the closing date.