Victim Witness Program Advocate

Under general supervision, provides assistance in the Victim Witness Program, which is designed to reduce the trauma of victimization and to encourage crime victims and witnesses to cooperate with and participate in the criminal justice system. Position is responsible for providing direct services to victims and witnesses, performing clerical tasks, and assisting in the delivery of services required by the Crime Victim and Witness Rights Act.

Reports to the Victim Witness Program Director.

This position is essential. Personnel occupying this position may be scheduled to work irrespective of weather conditions and/or when general County offices are closed. Applicants must be available to work Sunday through Saturday as needed.

• Assists with the overall administration of the Victim Witness Program in support of the prosecutorial functions of the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney Office.
• Coordinates services for citizens who participate in the Criminal Justice System; and is assigned to a caseload of felony and misdemeanor victims and witnesses in order to facilitate court appearance and provide mandated services.
• Informs, explains, and assists victims in obtaining protective orders; offers other protective services to victims and witnesses including obtaining warrants, trespass orders, stalking protective orders, police protection, and courtroom protection.
• Provides emotional support and guidance to victims and witnesses; provides support services such as follow-up counseling, and/or support groups; provides crisis referrals to victims and witnesses of crimes.
• Explains the criminal justice process including hearing, continuance, grand jury, trial, etc.; explains victims’ and witnesses’ options in the criminal justice process; provides courtroom tours; provides case status to victims and witnesses; provides information to victims concerning developments in investigations and adjudication of their cases; provides victims and witnesses with final disposition of their cases within thirty working days.
• Monitors and documents direct and generic victims and witnesses served; monitors and documents services provided to victims and witnesses; compiles data and prepares reports to maintain statistical data.
• Arranges appointments with attorneys to meet with victims and witnesses in preparation for court; keeps attorneys informed of red flag cases and any concerns, questions, or issues that may arise.
• Accompanies victims and witnesses to court and meetings with law enforcement, prosecutors, and other criminal justice agencies.
• Provides direction to victims concerning Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund; provides written materials and informs victims about compensation available; advises and assists victims concerning the application process; acts as a liaison between victims and Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund; provides follow-up on claims filed; informs victims of other financial assistance and social services available.
• Provides written materials and an explanation of victim impact statements; assists victims in completing and filing victim impact statements.
• Advises victims concerning appearance in court on a subpoena; explains rights to employers, if necessary.
• Provides information to victims and witnesses of their right to be notified by the Department of Corrections or local jail in cases of escape, name change, transfer, release, or discharge of prisoner; assists in the completion and forwarding of VINE notification request forms.
• Escorts crime victims to court proceedings and assists with transportation or travel arrangements related to the adjudication of cases.
• Informs victims and witnesses of confidentiality forms; assists in the completion and submission of forms.
• Advises victims of…