Victim Advocate

GENERAL SUMMARY

The purpose of this job is to provide crisis intervention assistance and advocacy to crime victims, serving as a community resources liaison. Provides flow of information about the criminal justice system to victims according to the Crime Victim Rights Act (CVRA). Interviews victims and compiles pertinent information. Provides explanation and updates of court proceedings to victims through various communication channels. Assists prosecutor with trial management and preparation, providing police reports and witness material. Arranges translation and special-needs services. Maintains detailed information about crime victim demographics.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides crisis intervention and advocacy for crime victims; assists victims with community referrals and resources, filing for crime victim compensation, and filing for emergency personal protective orders; assists with benefit applications for the Department of Health and Human Services, emergency housing programs, and Secretary of State.
• Provides support to victims and witnesses to maintain cooperation with ongoing criminal cases; acts as liaison between victims and prosecuting attorneys in compliance with the Crime Victim Rights Act.
• Collects restitution information and victim impact statements relied upon by judges, probation officers, law enforcement, and prosecutors; provides explanations and updates of court proceedings to victims via letter, in-person, phone, and email communications; maintains victim/witness contact information with multiple agencies.
• Produces and mails subpoenas for Circuit, District, and Family court trials and proceedings; monitors service of subpoenas and alerts witnesses of changes in scheduled hearings; assists prosecutors with witness issues and scheduling conflicts.
• Communicates with police, probation, and other court officers regarding the status of subpoenas and trials; assists prosecutor with trial management and preparation by providing police reports, videos, and other information to witnesses before testimony; arranges translation and special needs services.
• Conducts interviews with victims; provides a history of victimization and crime information to the prosecutor to aid in charging decisions; communicates with jail staff to set up notification of defendant jail releases for victims; identifies victim needs and assesses emergency services based on a review of police reports and interviews.
• Serves on multiple community panels, advisory groups, and programs; provides educational presentations and information.
• Maintains accurate and detailed statistical information regarding crime victim demographics; collects information on the amount and type of contacts and interactions with victims; compiles statistical information into online reporting systems.
• Performs related work as required.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Criminal Justice, Social Work, Law Enforcement, or a related field
• 1 to 3 years of related work experience in criminal justice, social services, or law enforcement
• Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities
• Completion of the National Advocate Credentialing Program (NACP) and Victim Advocate Basic Training, is preferred.

Required Licenses or Certifications

• None required

County positions include a benefits package with medical coverage, paid leave, and much more. Available supplemental dental and vision. Defined Benefit pension after the vesting period.

TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION:

All candidates must submit a Kalamazoo County Application for Employment and a resume. Application materials may be submitted online.