Forensic Interviewer​/Family Advocate at First Judicial District CASA Association Leavenworth, KS

Forensic Interviewer/Family Advocate job at First Judicial District CASA Association. Leavenworth, KS.

JOB TITLE: Forensic Interviewer/Family Advocate

PROGRAM: Leavenworth Atchison Child Advocacy Center

REPORTS TO: Child Advocacy Center Program Director

The Forensic Interviewer works as part of a multidisciplinary team responding to child sexual abuse and physical abuse allegations, using a children’s advocacy center (CAC) model. The Forensic Interviewer is responsible for understanding the dynamics of child abuse with an emphasis on child sexual abuse. This understanding is used to conduct child-focused, forensically-sound, legally defensible forensic interviews of alleged child victims referred to the Leavenworth Atchison Child Advocacy Center.

The Forensic Interviewer testifies as a fact and expert witness in Court as requested through subpoena. All forensic interviews will be conducted according to current Leavenworth Atchison Child Advocacy Center Protocol and interview guidelines as well as National Children’s Alliance Standards of Accreditation.

The Family Advocate works as part of a multidisciplinary team responding to child sexual abuse and physical abuse allegations, using a children’s advocacy center (CAC) model. The Family Advocate provides comprehensive support, guidance, and resources to non-offending family members of children who have experienced abuse. The Family Advocate serves as a compassionate and knowledgeable liaison, helping families navigate the complex investigative and legal processes, ensuring their voices are heard, and their needs are met.

By offering emotional support, information, and practical assistance, the Family Advocate plays a critical role in promoting the well-being and resilience of families during and after their involvement with the Child Advocacy Center. All Family Advocates will serve clients according to current Leavenworth Atchison Child Advocacy Center Protocols as well as National Children’s Alliance Standards of Accreditation.

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in social work/welfare, criminal justice/law enforcement, mental health, or related field.
• Direct work experience within a multidisciplinary team responding to allegations of child maltreatment.
• Direct work experience with abused children and their families.
• Advanced knowledge of child abuse dynamics and trends.
• Knowledge of law enforcement, criminal and civil court systems and how to communicate with and function within these systems.
• Preferred Criminal and/or CINC Court testimony experience.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to engage children of all ages in interviews and mediate with parents in crisis.
• Successful candidates will demonstrate an ability to accomplish and advance program goals, a willingness to remain abreast of current research related to child abuse and neglect, as well as best practices in the field of Forensic Interviewing and Advocacy, and an ability to remain sensitive and demonstrate appropriate boundaries with program clients, agency staff, MDT members, board, and volunteers.
• Familiar with National Children’s Alliance, Children’s Advocacy Center model.

• Be able to pass a background check. No record of confirmed involvement with child abuse or neglect.
• Be willing to travel between Atchison and Leavenworth Counties as well as to in-state meetings/trainings and out of state trainings.
• Have reliable vehicle, be able to drive, and have current driver’s license and insurance.
• Work effectively and respectfully with individuals from various economic, social and cultural backgrounds.
• Work in a confidential manner, ensuring information is shared with internal and external individuals in an appropriate manner.

• Conduct child-focused, legally-defensible forensic interviews with children who may be victims or witnesses of sexual or physical abuse, or witnesses to violent crime, using best practices, the current Leavenworth Atchison Child Advocacy Center forensic interview guidelines, and NCA standards.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members and CAC staff before and after forensic interviews.
• Testify in…