Victim Witness Advocate in Portland, Maine at Cumberland County Government

JOB PURPOSE: The purpose of this position is to provide comprehensive services to victims of violent crime as they proceed through the criminal justice system. This VWA position has a dual role, serving as an advocate for the victim and an assistant/liaison for the prosecuting ADA. This position also requires that crime victims are afforded their fundamental rights in the criminal justice system per Maine Statute Title 17- A –Chapter 75- Victim Rights. (Maine Statute Title 17- A –Chapter 75). This position is fulltime with a full benefits package. Pay for this position is a range of $25.62 to $30.64 per hour. This range reflects the County’s good-faith estimate of pay for this position at the time of posting. Starting pay is determined based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity in alignment with the County’s step-based compensation system. Please note, applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology or criminal justice and/or two to three years of related work in a social service setting or any equivalent education, training, experience.
• Valid State of Maine driver’s license.
• Social Work License is desired.

1. Review police report(s) to obtain necessary information prior to making initial contact with victim(s)
2. Communicates by phone, email and/or letter with the victim to obtain and share information.
3. Assess the victim's needs, concerns and inquiries resulting from the crime.
4. Provide victims with emotional and psychological support.
5. Provide referrals to state and local organizations to help support and stabilize victims after crime i.e. Maine Crime Victim Compensation program, legal services such as Pine Tree Legal Services, Maine Confidential Address Program and other local non-profits that can assist victims in being supported.
6. Educate victims of their rights as they proceed through the criminal justice process i.e. updates on criminal case information, notification of changes, court support, restitution, victim impact statement prisoner notification of release.
7. Provide updates to prosecuting attorney on new developments with victim i.e. victim communications, victim cooperation.
8. Serve as a liaison between the victim, DA’s office, law enforcement, DHHS and local agencies by communicating important issues pertaining to victim matters.
9. Coordinates meetings with victims, ADA’s and law enforcement to facilitate an understanding and explanation of the facts of the case, anticipated outcomes, trial preparation and possible plea options.
10. Assists/collaborate with Assistant District Attorneys and Trial Assistant’s with victim and civilian witness coordination for jury trial.
11. Work with high level of independence and utilize critical thinking skills.
12. Maintain quantitative documentation of communications with victims.
13. Abide by confidentiality laws.
14. Participate in multidisciplinary work groups in the community that are specific to caseload.
15. Mandated reporting.
16. Performs other related duties as directed.

Cumberland County offers an excellent and comprehensive benefits package and is proud of its talented and dedicated workforce. Come join our team and culture of engaged employees. Our strong management team is dedicated to providing employees with inspiring leadership, a positive and friendly workplace, support, encouragement and the necessary tools for success. We offer tuition reimbursement, wellness program, and professional development and training opportunities.

Position will remain open until filled.

Cumberland County is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected Veteran status.