What are the responsibilities and job description for the Victim Witness Program Advocate (CD) position at Hanover County Government?
The Hanover County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office is seeking a dynamic Victim Witness Advocate to join our growing team. Along with a competitive salary and benefits package with a generous holiday schedule, Hanover County offers a career ladder for advancement. Front-loaded paid leave included. The successful candidate will be a team player who excels in a structured environment.
General Description: This is an administrative position. The Advocate performs complex tasks to provide direct services and clerical information to victims and witnesses of crimes as required by the Crime Victim and Witness Rights Act.
Organization: The Victim Witness Program Advocate is directly supervised by the Victim Witness Program Director and ultimately reports to the Commonwealth’s Attorney. The Advocate does not have supervision responsibilities. The Advocate position is part of Hanover County’s Career Development Program (CD) and has three levels.
Essential Functions:
- Provides referrals to counseling or social services.
- Coordinates with court and attorneys for docket preparation and case management.
- Assists in applying for services and compensation available to crime victims.
- Provides notice of judicial proceedings, prisoner status and assistance in obtaining restitution in criminal cases.
- Provides employer and school intercession when requested.
- Assists in the preparation of victim impact statements.
- Performs community outreach.
- Performs related work as assigned.
Working Conditions:
A. Hazards
- May interact with citizens in sensitive situations
- May experience secondary trauma
B. Environment
- Office
- Field –off-site interviews
C. Physical Effort
- Minimal
D. FLSA Status
- Non-exempt
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Requires a general level of clerical skills and good customer service abilities. Must know how to organize and prioritize work and meet deadlines with minimal supervision. Must possess the ability to maintain a professional and empathetic demeanor during challenging face-to-face situations, particularly when communicating and interacting with individuals coping with emotional trauma. Proficiency in Microsoft Office computer programs and electronic case management, preferred. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Education, Experience and Training: Bachelor’s Degree in related field preferred; or High school diploma with one (1) year experience in the victim services field preferred – OR – Any equivalent combination of education, experience and/or training sufficient to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and abilities is acceptable.
Special Conditions:
- Serves at the will of the Hanover Commonwealth’s Attorney
- Criminal Records Check, including fingerprinting
- Work beyond normal work schedule
Revision Date: November 2023
Salary : $47,959 - $58,000
