Victim Advocate

$73,081 - $88,292/Yr

Santa Clara Valley Medical Center - San Jose, CA

Full-time - Entry Level

San Jose, CA

Hospitals

About the position

The Victim Advocate position at the County of Santa Clara involves assessing and coordinating the service needs of crime victims and witnesses. The role requires direct interaction with clients to provide emotional support, crisis intervention, and assistance with navigating the criminal justice system. Advocates will represent the department in public presentations and community groups, ensuring that victims' needs are met in a compassionate and effective manner.

Responsibilities

• Conduct client interviews after they have experienced a violent and traumatic crime to assess needs and take appropriate action.
• Assist clients in completing required applications and resolving inconsistencies or omissions.
• Arrange emergency assistance and provide follow-up counseling to meet victims' immediate needs.
• Provide crisis intervention, psychoeducation, and emotional support to victims of crime.
• Maintain clear and concise case notes and documentation, including grant-required documentation.
• Establish and maintain working relationships with law enforcement and community-based resource agencies.
• Communicate with caregivers and family members to secure or disseminate information.
• Incorporate relevant laws and policies to manage a large caseload effectively.
• Assist clients in preparing victim impact statements and provide case status updates.
• Explain the criminal justice system and court process to clients in lay terms.
• Accompany clients to court hearings and provide emotional support during trials.
• Attend trainings, conferences, and mandatory workshops.
• Compile electronic records and submit mandated reports.
• Assist with responses to mass victimization events as required.

Requirements

• Sufficient education, training, and experience to perform the tasks outlined.
• Possession of sixty (60) semester units of college coursework or equivalent experience in relevant fields.
• One (1) year of full-time work experience providing services in a law enforcement agency or community-based organization.
• Experience in interviewing clients, providing peer support, and managing a caseload is desirable.
• Completion of required in-house and entry-level victim/witness advocacy training within one year of appointment.

Nice-to-haves

• Bilingual candidates are highly encouraged to apply.
• Twelve (12) semester units in Social Sciences, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or related fields may substitute for work experience.

Benefits

• Dental insurance