Victim advocate

What Success Looks Like In This Job

This Domestic Violence High Risk Team (DVHRT) Victim Advocate Specialist serves as a primary point of contact for victims of high-risk domestic violence cases as identified by the multi-disciplinary 17th Judicial District Domestic Violence High-Risk Team.

The DVHRT Victim Advocate ensures victims of high-risk domestic violence cases are appropriately guided through the initial phases of the criminal justice system and connected to resources that address their immediate safety needs and well-being.

The DVHRT Victim Advocate works collaboratively DA Office personnel, law enforcement, court officials and community partners in the medical, mental health and social service fields to provide assistance and support to victims and their families.

NOTE : This is a project-designated 18-month position for 40 hrs. per week. Full or partial funding for this position at the expiration of the initial 18 months is subject to the availability of grant funds.

Positions funded by external grants may be subject to termination if the grant funding ceases. Positions funded by external grants will be reviewed by the 17th Judicial District Attorney's Office for viability in the absence of grant funds.

Examples of Duties for Success

General Duties :

• Guides and assists high-risk victims through the criminal justice system and provides access to services for those victims during the pendency of their cases.
• Participates in the DVHRT process by identifying high risk victims and high-risk cases and facilitating accurate and thorough information sharing among all team participants.
• Provides necessary follow-up or coordination of information to victims and DA Office staff & attorneys, police departments within the 17th Judicial District including Detectives and Victim Assistance Units as well as community team members;

provides timely intervention and follow-up services for domestic violence victims & cases identified as needing special attention.

Provides information regarding the role of the Victim Advocate Specialist and the criminal justice process to victims of crime in Adams and Broomfield Counties.

This includes, but is not limited to, information on courtroom proceedings, the overall criminal justice process, and definitions of legal terminology.

Maintains contact with victims and witnesses of crime. Provides direct services such as safety planning, crisis intervention services, guidance for seeking victim compensation and reimbursement, and criminal justice advocacy based on the victims' situation.

Provides appropriate community resources and referrals.

• Accompanies victims to criminal justice proceedings, educates victims and witnesses about the criminal justice system and domestic violence, and provide advocacy by assisting in the protection and exertion of victims' rights.
• Attends and participates in training opportunities directly related to domestic violence.
• Maintains accurate case records and statistical information through documentation for each victim case in accordance with recordkeeping standards and grant guidelines.
• Collaborates with the DVHRT in the development of services for domestic violence victims generally, as well as the planning for and development of a Family Justice Center serving victims in the 17th Judicial District.

Duties include developing and maintaining relationships with community partners, law enforcement, and other partnering agencies.

Performs additional tasks as assigned by the Chief of the Special Victims Unit, the DVHRT Coordinator and the Director of Victim Witness.

Grant-Related Duties :

Collects statistical data related to goals, objectives, and measurable workload indicators to support grant narrative reports and outcomes.

TO BE SUCCESSFUL, OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE SHOULD HAVE THE FOLLOWING KNOWLEDGE SKILLS & ABILITIES :

• Must have a working knowledge and overview of Victim’s Rights Act as set forth by the State of Colorado statutes.
• Must have a working knowledge of Colorado Criminal Justice Procedures and policies.
• Commitment to keeping the community safe and making the criminal justice system better.
• Able to maintain a calm demeanor and provide warmth and human connection to victims / witnesses and staff.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive, supportive and effective working relationships with DA Office staff & colleagues as well as community partners and stakeholders in the DVHRT process.
• Possesses strong organizational skills and is detail-oriented with the ability to prioritize, manage multiple projects and execute in a high-volume environment.
• Has excellent communication skills with the ability to develop and convey thoughts clearly, logically, and concisely both orally and in writing
• Skilled at working both independently and within a multi-disciplinary team to resolve issues.
• Skilled at working within a fast-paced environment with the ability to be flexible, meet deadlines, follow instructions, and accept direction on given assignments.
• Demonstrates proficiency in computer skills including Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook and familiar with entering data into online systems.

Should also have basic recordkeeping and math skills.

• Able to maintain workplace confidentiality and take ownership / accountability for own actions and aspects of the Victim Advocate Role.
• Requires possession of a valid Colorado Driver’s License, access to reliable vehicle and adequate car insurance.

Qualifications for Success

Experience : Minimum of one year of experience providing victim advocacy to survivors of domestic violence in either a criminal justice setting or non-profit organization, preferred.

Education and Training : Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, social work, human services, public administration, or related field or Equivalent experience that includes 3-5 years of experience providing victim advocacy.

Background Check : required

A resume and cover letter MUST be submitted to be considered for this position.

Last updated : 2024-04-28

Salary : $52,886 - $74,042