Victim Advocate

The purpose of this job is to provide assistance and services to victims and witnesses of crimes throughout the criminal justice process; and to perform related work as required.

• Serves as liaison between the victim, law enforcement officers, investigators, attorneys, court personnel, creditors, and other government and community organizations.
• Receives and processes victim impact statements; assists victims in completing statements as necessary; assists with victim interviews as necessary; reviews statements, law enforcement reports and other documentation to determine needs of victims.
• Coordinate, schedule and attend in-person/virtual meetings between victims, witnesses, law enforcement, and Solicitors.
• Informs crime victims of their legal rights and ensures their rights are protected.
• Provides emotional and moral support to victims of crimes; refers victims to other agencies in cases of physical, social and/or psychological injuries or anxieties; and refers victims for grief and other types of counseling.
• Notifies victims of court case status and court dates. Provides courtroom orientation to victims and accompanies victims in court when support is requested.
• Prepare transport orders and coordinate transport. Assists in preparing victims and witnesses for court testimony.
• Assists victims in filing applications to the victim compensation fund through the Governor’s Office Division of Victims’ Assistance for the purpose of obtaining financial help with medical expenses, lost wages, counseling expenses, funeral expenses, etc.
• Assists in determining and requesting restitution payments and payment schedules.
• Provides follow-up services to victims of crimes and their families.
• Maintains accurate and up-to-date case files and case database.
• Performs general administrative/clerical work as required including, but not limited to, preparing reports and correspondence, entering, and retrieving computer data, copying, and filing documents, answering the telephone, etc.
• Attends training, seminars, conferences, etc., as necessary, to enhance job knowledge and skills.
• Performs other related job duties as assigned.

High School Graduation or GED equivalent.

One year of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license with an acceptable driving history.
• State certification as a Victim Assistance Specialist is required within six (6) months of employment.

Work is performed dealing with crisis situations that require making decisions involving people, resources, and property.

Dorchester County has the right to revise this job description at any time.

This description does not represent in any way a contract of employment.

This is a full-time position; typical work hours and days are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Some flexibility in hours is allowed, but employees must be available during the “core” work hours of 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and must work 40 hour each week to maintain full-time status.

E.O.E. Dorchester County does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability or military service in employment or the provision of services.