Victim & Witness Advocate — Court

Recognized as one of the best places to work in Southeast Minnesota for three consecutive years, at Olmsted County every role helps to foster a vibrant community where everyone thrives. Our employees are at the heart of everything we do, driving public service excellence and community well-being.

We don’t just offer a job, we offer a career filled with purpose, growth, and fulfillment. Our benefits package ensures your wellbeing, while career advancement opportunities and professional development empower you to reach your full potential.

Join us, and you'll be part of a purpose-driven team where your work truly makes a difference. Together, we build a sustainable, healthy, and welcoming community.

Expecting starting pay range $32.07 to $42.83. Full range $32.07 to $53.58.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Paralegal Studies, Social Work, Criminal Justice or related field and one (1) year of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.
• Associate's degree from an accredited college in Legal Studies, Criminal Justice, or related human/social services field and three (3) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.
• Combination of education and experience equivalent to five (5) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.
• Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position.
• Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver's license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

• Direct experience working with crime victims.

Under supervision, is responsible for managing, coordinating, monitoring and providing trial assistance for juvenile and criminal cases within the County Attorney's office. Establishes communication with victims and witnesses for their advocates, advises victims of their statutory rights, keeps victims and witnesses informed of the status of files, provides victims and witnesses with information, locates witnesses required for effective prosecution and assists with case management.

Attends court hearings with victims and witnesses. Supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace.

• Administers programs and implements policies to keep victims and witnesses informed of the status of their case as it moves through the legal system, provides them with information and emotional support, explains concepts of a criminal/juvenile trial and of testifying in a criminal/juvenile trial
• Per statute, locates and establishes initial personal line of communication with victims regarding availability, case consultation and litigation preparation, advises victims of statutory rights and their right to compensation through the Minnesota Crime Victims Reparations Board, and assists in obtaining application forms
• Assists attorneys with case analysis, preparation of witness testimony and coordination of appearances in court, including attending mandatory meetings such as weekly attorney meetings and bi-weekly judges' meetings with updates on trial status and victim/witness participation
• Serves as liaison between victims and attorneys, consulting with attorneys regarding witness preparation and victim opinion
• Schedules and participates in interviews with witnesses to assist attorneys in gathering facts and evidence
• Develops reports and maintains documentation of witness information, including making supplemental reports of pre-trial interviews, file notes and contact information. Manages current database of information for victims including contact information, maintains reports and records documenting victim services rendered and compiles statistical data regarding victim contact
• Interprets and explains policy, regulations, statutes and operating procedures to victims and witnesses
• Assists victims and witnesses in securing time off from employment and, where required, travel, lodging and child care, and escorts victims to court and provides information and emotional support throughout the court process. Advises victims of availability of support services and encourages and assists victims in contacting and commencing the utilization of those services
• Acts as liaison to social services agencies which result in mutual partnerships and coordinates with Olmsted County Victim Services to ensure effective communication and provision of services
• Provides victims with information to apply for restitution and to obtain return of property
• Develops, plans and makes recommendations to enhance the victim/witness programs
• Provides instruction to and works with student interns in the delivery of victim programs
• Performs related tasks as assigned

• Knowledge of criminal procedure and its application to crimes and crime victims from initial prosecution through final dispositions
• Knowledge of Minnesota Statutes, including but not…