To be an advocate for victims of violent crimes and serve as a liaison with the legal system, i.e., attorneys, magistrates, courts, police, probation, and judges. Provide supervision to legal advocates and represent the Legal Program as directed by the Legal Advocacy Director. Also, must be an advocate for the mission of YWCA York and all confidentiality and safety precautions of the domestic violence program. YWCA York is a mindful organization and practices mindfulness and self care actively.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Assist Legal Director in projects, supervision of staff and other projects as assigned.
- Assist Legal Director in developing and maintaining a unified legal advocacy team.
- Provide court accompaniment and victims' compensation assistance to clients of YWCA York victim service programs.
- Assist Legal Director in cross-training all members of the legal advocacy team.
- Serve as primary liaison for both the agency and the clients between PFA court, judges, and PFA office.
- Provide training and accompaniment opportunities to interns and volunteers regarding PFA court.
- Coordinate and educate volunteer legal advocates.
- Facilitate one monthly support group for residents of the Bridge Housing Program regarding legal issues.
- Responsible for interfacing with other YWCA York staff coordinators to assure the continued information and referral of appropriate and adequate legal advocacy.
- Assist the Legal Advocacy Director with recruiting, training, and supervising the Legal Advocates.
- Responsible for in-depth client interviews, gathering and organizing information and keeping statistical data as required.
- Maintain confidential materials associated with the clients.
- Provide options counseling by introducing the client to legal options and what to expect. Provide support individually/group and court accompaniment to clients.
- Develop basic knowledge of Protection from Abuse (PFA) statute and alternatives; draft PFA Pro Se petitions.
- Provide education and support in obtaining legal rights of clients and provide referrals and accompaniment to appropriate systems and agencies.
- Stay up-to-date and have a thorough knowledge of all legislation which may affect victims of crime and/or the department.
- Assist in facilitating Legal Advocacy Program team meetings in regard to clients, programmatic issues and agency issues.
- Maintain cooperative working relationship with community agencies such as the county court system including the Victim/Witness Program of the District Attorney's office, etc.
- Attends YWCA York-held and community special events as required.
- Adheres to YWCA York conduct and service standards per funding agencies such as PCADV, etc.
Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree in criminal justice or related field and at least two years of related work experience preferred.
Must complete PCAR/PCCD/PCADV advocate training within 90 days of employment. YWCA York provides this training.
Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge/skills in the provision of services to victims in stress.
Ability to communicate well both orally and in writing.
Access to reliable transportation required.
Competencies:
- Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences. - Treats people with respect;
- Works with integrity and ethically; upholds organizational values.
- Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of status or position.
- Observes safety and security procedures.
- Adapts to changes in the work environment.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift, push, and/or pull up to 25 pounds.
- May require driving in inclement weather.
- Frequent standing, sitting, walking and typing.