The purpose of this classification is work closely with victims of felonies to guide them through the Victim/Witness Advocacy Program. This position is specifically charged with coordinating efforts to serve felony victims of crime from the time of arrest until warrants are bound over to Superior Court.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.
Assist Criminal Justice Coordinating Council in the distribution of information concerning the Crime Victims’ Compensation Program to the community.
Assist with compensation claims, victim impact statements and advising of available resources based on the Victim Bill of Rights.
Serve as the primary compensation advocate for Judicial Circuit.
Ensure all applications are submitted via the VICS public portal, including required police or investigative report, warrant, and/or indictment.
Monitor all incomplete applications and assist with getting requested information and documentation.
Provide referral information and assistance to victims regarding the criminal justice system, victim’s compensation, restitution, counseling services, emergency shelter, and area support groups for victims of homicide, sexual assault, family violence.
Communicates regularly with clients: Notifies clients of status changes in case proceedings, including bond, hearings, postponements, guilty pleas, release from jail or prison, parole, etc.; develops solutions and oral/written instructions for their safety by telephone or in person; and provides follow-up communication after each step of the justice process.
Superior customer service skills, positive attitude, personal responsibility, and a strong sense of responsibility to the community at large is preferred.
High school diploma or GED; and Vocational/Technical Certification in related field; supplemented by two (2) years' experience in law enforcement, public service; or, any combination of experience and training which provides the equivalent scope of knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work. Applicants should have a knowledge and level of competency commonly associated or equal to an undergraduate degree in fields of study such as criminal justice, human services, paralegal studies or related fields. Complete necessary training within first six months of employment (Victim’s Assistance Training –VAT- on line) and other training as provided and made available. Attend at least eight (8) hours victim assistance training annually, including victim’s compensation training approved by the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council within six months of employment.
