About the position
The Suffolk County District Attorney's Office (SCDAO) is seeking a dedicated and compassionate individual for the position of Crime Victim Advocate, specifically targeting Spanish-speaking candidates. This role is crucial in supporting victims of crimes, particularly those affected by child abuse and domestic violence. As a Crime Victim Advocate, you will be responsible for establishing a trusting relationship with victims and witnesses, guiding them through the complexities of the legal system, and ensuring they have access to necessary resources and information throughout the court process. In this position, you will work under direct supervision, performing paraprofessional duties that involve direct contact with victims and witnesses as part of the Victim Witness Assistance Program. Your responsibilities will include contacting victims and witnesses to provide updates on court procedures, accompanying them to court hearings, and assisting with logistical arrangements such as transportation and accommodations. You will also be tasked with answering inquiries related to case information and writing follow-up notifications as needed. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of the criminal court system and the operations of the District Attorney's office. You will need to demonstrate excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to maintain positive relationships with various stakeholders, including victims, witnesses, and colleagues. This role requires good judgment, tact, and the ability to observe and assess situations effectively. The SCDAO is committed to fostering a diverse workforce and is looking for individuals who share a strong work ethic and a commitment to public service and justice.
Responsibilities
- Contact victims, witnesses, and employers by telephone and/or letter regarding pre-trial, hearing, and trial times, cancellations, grand jury summonses, subpoenas, and case dispositions.
- Escort victims and witnesses to and from trial, attending cases from pre-trial hearings through verdict and sentencing.
- Answer calls and inquiries concerning case information, explaining all hearing and trial procedures.
- Write and send follow-up letters of notification when necessary.
- Recover evidence from trial that should be returned to the victim/witness.
- Perform general clerical activities such as filing and telephone coverage.
- Arrange for interpreters, transportation, babysitters, travel plans, and lodging accommodations for victims and witnesses.
Requirements
- Graduation from a college with federally-authorized accreditation or registration by New York State with a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Social Work, or Sociology.
- Graduation from a college with federally-authorized accreditation or registration by New York State with an Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Social Work, or Sociology and two (2) years of experience in the delivery of health, social, or community services, one (1) year of which must have been in crime victim advocacy.
- Graduation from a standard senior high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma, and four (4) years of experience in the delivery of health, social, or community services, one (1) year of which must have been in crime victim advocacy.
- An equivalent combination of education and experience as defined by the limits of the above.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience in interviewing techniques.
- Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English.
Benefits
- Competitive salary of approximately $47,000/year.
- Opportunities for professional development and training in victim advocacy.
