KG Workforce Solutions is currently recruiting for a Criminal Court Advocate. This is an onsite, full-time position working for a nonprofit organization located in Newberry, SC.
Position Summary:
The Criminal Court Advocate provides court advocacy services for survivors of intimate partner violence to assist them in proceeding through the legal system to obtain safety and live violence-free. This role focuses on helping clients obtain protective orders, navigate criminal court proceedings, and connect with resources that promote their safety and well-being. The advocate collaborates with legal personnel, support services, and community resources to ensure survivors receive compassionate and informed assistance to live violence-free.
Key Responsibilities:
Court Advocacy and Support:
- Assist clients in understanding legal rights and options, particularly related to protective orders, custody, and divorce.
- Accompany clients to court hearings, providing emotional support and clarifying legal terminology and procedures.
- Collaborate with attorneys, court personnel, and social service agencies to facilitate seamless client access to justice.
Client Assessment and Safety Planning:
- Conduct intake assessments to understand clients' needs, safety concerns, and legal goals.
- Develop individualized safety plans in partnership with clients, addressing immediate and long-term concerns for their protection.
Resource Referral and Navigation:
- Connect clients with relevant resources, including housing, counseling, financial assistance, and healthcare, to support their overall well-being.
- Maintain knowledge of community services and legal aid options for survivors, ensuring clients have comprehensive access to needed support.
Education and Empowerment:
- Provide clients with information on the legal process, their rights, and available protections.
- Foster client empowerment by advocating for their voices within the legal system and encouraging informed decision-making.
Record Keeping and Confidentiality:
- Document client interactions, case progress, and outcomes in alignment with confidentiality standards.
- Ensure all client information remains confidential and is handled with sensitivity and care.
Qualifications:
- · Bachelor's degree in behavioral science or related field or equivalent experience on a year-for-year basis.
- · Knowledge of intimate partner abuse laws and procedures, and practices of the judicial and law enforcement systems.
- · Knowledge of clients' advocacy principles, presenting problems of domestic violence and common problems confronting women.
- · Knowledge of community resources available to assist follow-up clients.
- · Skill in communicating effectively with domestic violence victims.
- · Ability to relate in a non-judgmental manner with individuals with a wide range of problems, work in a cooperative team, and handle emergency situations on an independent basis.
- · Must have a valid South Carolina driver's license, a vehicle to be used for work related travel and vehicle insurance.