VICTIM/WITNESS ADVOCATE- PROSECUTING ATTORNEY'S OFFICE

GRADE: 10

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

LOCATION: MARTINSBURG

JOB TYPE: Full-Time
SCHEDULE: Monday through Friday, 8 – 5

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsible for assisting victims and witnesses before, during, and after trial; making initial contact with victims by letter and/or phone prior to court and personal visits to home of victims and/or witnesses; and referring victims/witness to other agencies. Also responsible for assisting in maintenance of criminal files; assisting prosecutors with case files; working with outside agencies; arranging office appointments, transport as needed; and making accommodations for out-of-state victims/witnesses. Directions may be provided by Prosecuting Attorney, Chief Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Senior Assistant Prosecuting Attorney(s), Assistant Prosecuting Attorneys(s), and/or office manager.

ESSENTIAL TASKS
(These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.)

• Makes initial contact with victim by letter or phone.
• Responds to crime victim concerns following their victimization and provides a safe environment for victims to tell their stories.
• Provides information, assistance, accompaniment and support to prepare victims for their encounter with the criminal justice system.
• Makes appropriate referrals to outside organizations to meet victims’ physical, emotional, financial and other needs because of victimization.
• Provides community outreach, including developing and presenting programs regarding the Victim’s Advocate services.
• Coordinates team meetings among external agencies.
• Handles inquiries from victims and witnesses who have questions about court and their subpoena.
• Provides education and training about victim services to Prosecuting Attorney’s staff.
• Communicate with attorneys outside of the Prosecuting Attorney's office.
• Sets goals for Victim’s Advocate program and formulates and implements procedures and recommends policies intended to enhance the efficacy of the program.
• Collects, maintains, and analyzes data.
• Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to interview victims and obtain relevant information.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and the public.
• Ability to read and interpret law enforcement reports, write reports and recommendations, and speak effectively before individuals and groups.
• Sincere desire to assist victims/witnesses who may be in a stressful situation.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology, Social Work, Psychology, or related field.
• Experience working within the criminal justice system and with victims.
• A comparable amount of training and experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications.