Victim Witness Assistant Coordinator
- GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Performs responsible professional work addressing needs of victims and witnesses involving appearance in Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court, General District and Circuit Court as needed; does work related to court as required. General knowledge of individual and group behavior. Some knowledge of social institutions, community and government service. General knowledge of court process; ability to identify and address problems associated with court appearances and court practices. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Ability to establish effective working relationships with others. Ability to prepare and maintain records. Experience in public contact.
This position is responsible for the reduction of trauma that occurs from victimization and is to encourage crime victims to cooperate with and participate in the criminal justice system by providing direct services and other program support services essential to the delivery of direct services required by the Crime Victim and Witness Rights Act. Additionally, the position is to provide support to the Commonwealth’s Attorney and his assistants on cases, to include major cases such as homicides, adult and children sexual assaults, serious violent crimes, and domestic violence.
Note: Full-Time Grant-Funded position in the Commonwealth Attorney's Office- ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
- Provides advocacy to victims in cases of felonious assault as well as domestic violence, including supporting victims throughout the court process, accompanying victims to court, coordinating pretrial meetings, and attend protective order hearings upon request
- Prepares victims for participation in trial proceedings through counseling, courtroom tours, accompaniment to court and explanation of the proceedings
- Provides appropriate referrals to victims for crisis intervention, medical treatment, and related needs. Provides counseling and referrals to appropriate agencies for victims and witnesses
- Disseminates victim's rights information to all victims in conformity with the Victim Rights Act.
- Provides information to victims and witnesses on significant developments in the investigation and adjudication of case
- Assists victims with administrative procedures in any phase of their relationship with the court
- Explains victim impact statements and the restitution process to victims
- Schedules and assists with appointments on cases for trial preparation
- Engages and empowers victims and others for problem resolution and stabilization
- Works in a multidisciplinary capacity to effectively serve victim needs including attending various meetings
- Positively influences behavior of victims and recognizes victims' needs for support and information
- Prepares reports, produces and distributes written materials and maintains records
- Perform job skills at a level with independence and sound judgment and limited supervision
- REQUIREMENTS/PREFERENCES
Education Required: Associates Degree from an accredited college or university in Criminal Justice, Sociology, Psychology or related field.
Preferred: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Criminal Justice, Sociology, Psychology, or related field.Experience Required: Some related experience in direct delivery of human services. Experience in the court system and/or legal system. Certifications/ Licenses Must have a valid Virginia Driver’s License with a good record. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- General knowledge of the local and state criminal justice systems
- General knowledge of case management and crisis intervention techniques
- General knowledge of legal terminology, documents and instruments
- Working knowledge of the physical and mental impact of victimization
- Ability to communicate and establish strong and effective working relationships with victims
- Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished both written and orally.
- Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
- Ability to maintain records and reports
- Ability to deal with highly emotional or stressful situations
- Skill in the use of standard office equipment, computer hardware and software
Additional Requirements Subject to a complete criminal background investigation with acceptable results. Must also be able to perform the job as described in the Physical and Environmental Demands section of this job description. Supervisory Responsibilities None. - OTHER INFORMATION
Full-time employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefit package that includes:
• Progressive Flexible Leave Plan with cash-in option
• Eleven paid holidays
• Short Term Disability Insurance
• Long Term Disability Insurance
• Health, Vision and Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts - Medical and Dependent Care
• Virginia Retirement System - Membership in VRS is automatic upon hire into a covered position. County contributes and employees pay their membership contribution.
• Deferred Compensation Plan with County Match
• Employee Assistance Program
• Credit Union Membership