GCG

VICTIM ADVOCATE

Glynn County Government

place Brunswick, 31520

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Counseling, Social Work, Other Behavioral, Mental, or Healthcare Field

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Internship

local_atm $25.20 an hour

PURPOSE OF CLASSIFICATION

The purpose of this classification is to work closely with victims of juvenile crime to guide them through the Victim Advocacy Program. This position is specifically charged with coordinating efforts to serve victims of juvenile crime from the time of complaint through disposition in Juvenile Court, including restitution matters, if applicable.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Assist Criminal Justice Coordinating Council in the distribution of information concerning the Crime Victims Compensation Program to the community. Assist with compensation claims, victim impact statements and advising of available resources based on the Victim Bill of Rights.

Provide referral information and assistance to victims regarding the criminal justice system, victims compensation, restitution, counseling services, emergency shelter, and area support groups for victims of violent crime.

Communicates regularly with victims/clients: Notifies clients of status changes in case proceedings, including detention and/or release from detention, hearings, postponements, admissions, trials, etc.; helps to develop solutions and oral/written instructions for their safety by telephone or in person; and provides follow-up communication after each step of the justice process, including restitution matter.

Superior customer service skills, positive attitude, personal responsibility, and a strong sense of responsibility to the community at large is preferred.

Minimum Requirements

High school diploma or GED; and Vocational/Technical Certification in related field; supplemented by two (2) years' experience in law enforcement, public service; or, any combination of experience and training which provides the equivalent scope of knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work. Applicants should have a knowledge and level of competency commonly associated or equal to an undergraduate degree in fields of study such as criminal justice, human services, social work or related fields. Chosen applicant must complete necessary training within first six months of employment (Victim’s Assistance Training VAT- on line and other training as provided and made available. Attend at least eight (8) hours victim assistance training annually, including victim’s compensation training approved by the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council within six months of employment.

Preferred Qualifications

Strong interpersonal and communication skills – both written and oral; strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities; working knowledge of the criminal justice system and the impact of crime on victims, bilingual or multilingual abilities; ability to handle sensitive and confidential information; excellent organizational and time-management skills; proficiency in using case management software and other technology tools, including Microsoft Office Suite; previous experience in a supportive or advocacy role; ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team consisting of attorneys, law enforcement officers, other agency representatives, and victims of juvenile crime; empathy, patience, and strong ethical standards.

Requires a security background check and/or additional certification(s) specific to the functional area of assignment.