Victim Advocate - Vrl

Job Summary

This position provides information on victims legal rights and protections according to Arizona Constitution, Article II, Section 2.1, and ARS Title 13, Chapter 40 and Title 8, Chapter 3, Article 7 to provide information on the criminal justice process, and guidance on the process of victim rights advocates. Assists in understanding options regarding participating in the criminal justice process. Supports case managers to ensure minors in DCS custody are able to exercise their victims rights.

Engages with prosecution and law enforcement based advocates regarding case status and facilitates interactions with DCS case managers. Researches case statuses using numerous computer databases, in person or by phone. Effectively manageseloads, documents and present findings. Provides documentation related to grant finding tracking and performance measurements. Documents interactions between DCS, victims rights advocates and children as well as the prosecutorial agency.

Provides notices to child victims as well as provides information to the prosecutorial agency within the mandates of ARS 8-807. Provides an open line of communication between the prosecutorial agency and DCS within the confines of ARS 8-807.

• Provides information to case managers and victims concerning their victims' rights, procedures of the criminal justice system and facilitates communication with various representatives of criminal justice agencies.
• Documents services, contacts and referrals in designated databases; prepares and delivers training to DCS specialists regarding unit function, basic victims' rights, and criminal justice process.
• Serves as a liaison between the DCS specialist, advocate and attorneys and consults with prosecutors' offices regarding trial preparation/victim opinion. Evaluates cases and assists specialist and or victim advocate in applying for compensation through the local county victim compensation board.
• Maintains contact with DCS Specialist as needed and may accompany them to court to provide support and information.
• Develops and maintains sound working relationships with DCS staff and community justice partners. Participates in meetings and ongoing training.
• Other duties as assigned as related to the position.

• Child welfare system and laws
• Criminal court proceedings, and the effects of victimization on crime victims
• Legal terminology
• Crisis intervention methods and techniques
• Principals and practices of case management

• Offering victims information about the different options available to them and support victims’ decision‑making
• Networking with community outreach organizations to keep updated resource information
• Operating computers and office equipment
• Working with individuals with diverse backgrounds
• Communicating both verbally and written

• Interpret and understand Arizona statutes related to victims’ rights
• Prepare and deliver training
• Analyze and interpret information from multiple sources and evaluate cases to make appropriate decisions
• Inform, support and accompany victim through the criminal justice proceedings
• Educate individuals and agencies regarding the needs and rights of victims.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships
• Maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the position

Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Sociology, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or related field; and 2 years experience in counseling, social work, crisis intervention, criminal justice, or a related field which involves public contact.

This position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job. Any employee operating a motor vehicle on State business must possess and retain a current, valid class‑appropriate driver’s license, complete all required training, and successfully pass all necessary driver license record checks. The license must be current, unexpired, and neither revoked nor suspended. Employees who drive on state business are subject to driver license record checks, must maintain acceptable driving records, and must complete all required driver…