Victims Advocate; Rvsd

This is a full-time, non-exempt, civilian administrative position within the City of Miami Gardens Police Department. The Victims Advocate provides social services, crisis intervention, and ongoing support to crime victims and their families. Employees in this classification administer the Department’s Victim Advocate Program, assisting victims throughout all phases of the criminal justice process. Duties include interviewing, assessment, referral for counseling, crisis intervention, follow-up services, and case management.

Regularly exercises independent judgment and discretion, particularly in consultation with the Investigations Major on complex or sensitive matters, administrative decisions, and significant program changes.

This is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position-specific tasks.

Interprets and implements policies and standard operating procedures concerning the Victim Advocate Program.

Exercises independent judgment to determine the most effective course of action to achieve program outcomes.

Interprets and disseminates information on victims’ rights as required by Florida Statutes.

Conducts program orientations, assessments, and treatment planning for crime victims and residents.

Provides or coordinates services based on individual assessments; conducts hospital and home visits, accompanied by a police detective when required for safety or emergencies.

Maintains comprehensive and documented assessments, ensuring services are administered appropriately.

Facilitates crisis intervention, individual, group, and family counseling.

Informs victims and residents of legal requirements and implications concerning treatment and case progress; coordinates with local, county, and community agencies.

Attends training sessions, workshops, and inter-agency conferences to strengthen service coordination; participates in staff conferences for case review and consultation.

Maintains files, records, and case documentation in accordance with regulatory policies and departmental procedures; prepares casework, medical, and legal documentation.

Secures assistance and cooperation from social service agencies and community resources to address victims’ and residents’ needs.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of services and resources available to crime victims and their families. Knowledge of social work practices, court procedures, and methods for assisting individuals in crisis. Knowledge of departmental policies, procedures, regulations, organization, and workflow.
• Ability to operate personal computers and standard office equipment; proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Internet resources, and public databases.
• Ability to research and compile information from multiple sources; compose clear correspondence, reports, and case documentation.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to provide training and public presentations.
• Ability to treat victims and survivors of violent crimes with dignity, fairness, compassion, and confidentiality.
• Ability to maintain detailed case management systems, track cases from inception to closure, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Ability to analyze and prioritize information, exercise independent judgment, and adapt methods to meet program objectives.
• Ability to assist victims and their families in navigating the criminal justice system.
• Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university supplemented with a minimum of three (3) years professional experience in crisis counseling services or a victim advocate; voluntary or by employment.
• Must possess the State of Florida, Office of the Attorney General Victim Services Practitioner Designation; OR obtain within one (1) year of hire as a condition of continued employment.
• Must possess and maintain throughout employment a valid Florida driver's license with a…