Victim Witness Advocate (Grant-funded) (Open Positions: 1)

Grant funded through Victim witness -VOCA 2023 which is a five-year reoccurring grant and grant funded through UV- Underserved grant which is a five-year reoccurring grant.

ABOUT THE POSITION:

This position will assist victims Initiates immediate contact with victims of crime; Assess situations and determine if restitution is a factor, develops case plans to provide necessary services, provides information on restitution and reimbursement, advises victims of the judicial process and requesting restitution, ensures that victim understands changes in sentencing under realignment act.
This position requires a passionate caring individual with court knowledge who has a passion for helping.  A victim advocate for elders typically works to support and assist elderly individuals who have been victims of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or other crimes.

Their role is multifaceted and may include:

1. Emotional Support: Providing emotional support to elderly victims, who may feel vulnerable, scared, or ashamed following an incident.
2. Information and Guidance: Educating victims about their rights, available resources, and options for seeking help or legal recourse.
3. Case Management: Assisting victims in navigating the criminal justice system, including reporting incidents to law enforcement, accompanying them to court proceedings, and helping them understand legal proceedings.
4. Referrals: Connecting victims with appropriate services and resources, such as counseling, legal aid, healthcare providers, and social services agencies.
5. Advocacy: Acting as a liaison between victims and other professionals, advocating for their needs and rights within various systems.
6. Safety Planning: Collaborating with victims to develop safety plans to mitigate further harm and prevent future victimization.

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, plans, coordinates, and assists in the daily functions, operations, and activities of the Victim Advocate program; advocates and coordinates rights and benefits for crime victims during the various stages of follow-up to the crime; facilitates communication among agencies concerned with the investigation of criminal cases involving victims; coordinates and facilitates victim and witness appearances in court; performs related duties as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision or direction from Victim Witness Services Supervisor. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

This is a fully competent class that performs the full range of duties required to provide services within the District Attorney’s Victim Witness program, designed to reduce trauma and assist participants in coping with the personal impact of being a victim of or witness to crimes. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This class is distinguished from the Victim Witness Services Supervisor in that the latter is a full supervisory class with responsibility for the program.