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Domestic Violence Advocate
SUMMARY Assists victims of domestic violence and promotes trust and communication between the victims and the State's Attorney's Office as the cases proceed through the
criminal justice system.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
In charge of daily operations of the Domestic Violence Prosecution Unit. Directly reports to the State's
Attorney regarding the program's progress. The State's Attorney advises and approves the procedural formulation and
implementation of policies with the intention of maintaining and improving the effectiveness of the program.
Works with reluctant victims:
- Arranging child care for victim's children
- Explaining their rights about obtaining an Order of Protection and what to do if the Order is violated.
- Flexible with hours in order to meet with and advise victim
- Gathers statements and other related documentation from victim. Usually includes medical releases if obtaining evidence is necessary for prosecution
- Preparing for court testimony. Usually present with victim while in court.
- To explain in detail and in understandable terms the State's Attorney's position of the criminal case and his/her situation.
Other Responsibilities
- Develops and presents information and training programs regarding domestic violence issues. Such recipients may be law
enforcement agencies, community groups, religious groups, and community agencies.
- Keeps and updates a list of expert witnesses who specialize in domestic violence and abuse
- Keeps and updates a list of referrals for victims. This list would include support groups, counselors, financial assistance
counselors and others who are involved in the support of domestic violence victims
- Makes sure proper care is available for victim's children
- Makes sure that proper reports and documentation are completed
- Running criminal background or history checks
- Works directly with law enforcement agencies.
- Works with the Probation and Court Service departments to inform, update, educate and support their efforts in cases.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES Directs and supervises daily work performance of the Administrative Legal
Secretary assigned to the Domestic Violence Prosecution Unit. Works with the Senior Administrative Assistant making
recommendations concerning hiring and discipline of Unit staff. Supervises law school interns, provides training and work direction, appraises performance, addresses complaints and resolves problems.
QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each primary duty satisfactorily.
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
- Ability To Reason: Must be able to confront and solve basic practical issues and problems. These can arise in a variety of situations
- Experience/Education: BA from a 4-year college or accredited university. Social Work major or related field preferred.
An equivalent combination of education and related experience may be sufficient.
- Language Skills: Must be able to read and understand related documents. Examples are law enforcement reports,
regulations of the local, state and federal government, and be able to understand legal interpretations.
- Writing Skills: Must be able to speak effectively. May be expected to present in front of a group in individuals who may have difficulty understanding domestic violence.
PHYSICAL JOB DEMANDS While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to sit, stand,
walk, and handle objects, reach, talk, and listen. May occasionally be required to lift and or move objects.
JOB WORK ENVIRONMENT
. Usually normal office working conditions. Occasionally will do home, on-site visits or meet in other secured area.
This job description can also be found in Word form here
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