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Human Resources
Tony Hagler, Director
100 Cherokee St
Second Floor
Marietta, GA
30090-9679
Cobb County Human Resources
Class Title: VICTIM ADVOCATE
DEPARTMENT: VARIOUS
DESCRIPTION
Under direction, the purpose of the position is to function in the area of advocacy for victims and witnesses of crimes. In the area of victim advocacy, personnel provide specialized assistance to victims and witnesses of crime through coordinating intervention actions, case management, criminal justice information, and facilitating use of resources and community services. Employees in this classification are responsible for ensuring adherence to the Georgia Crime Victim’s Bill of Rights.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position.
Performs initial notification of crime victim’s on the procedures of the criminal justice system to advise them of their rights and inform them of the judicial process.
Establishes and maintains case files for notification purposes.
Interviews with victims and witnesses to secure additional information in support of the case; documents information acquired and updates legal staff/attorney’s accordingly.
Coordinates victims and witnesses for hearings and attends court in support of victims and witnesses, e.g., bond hearings, probable cause, motions, revocations, trial, pleas, sentencing hearings.
Maintains contact with victims and witnesses throughout the course of their cases; advises victims and witnesses regularly on the status of their cases.
Interviews and counsels with victims concerning physical well being, emotional stability, and victim rights available under state law.
Contacts victims to extend services and provide referral to the appropriate community resource and social service agencies, according to victim's needs.
Assists the victim, as needed, in filing for applicable compensation, employer communications, funeral coordination, transportation, and related immediate needs.
Participates in in-service training and workshops in victim services and continuing education to learn of resources such as social service agencies and in gaining a thorough knowledge base on the dynamics of victimization.
Maintains attendance and punctuality within customary tolerances for this position.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
MATERIAL AND EQUIPMENT USED:
Personal Computer Standard Office Equipment Standard Software Applications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Services, Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or related field; supplemented by one year previous experience that provides broad knowledge of the judicial process with respect to victims rights and case filing; additional years of experience in the filed may substitute for a portion of the required experience; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of the principles and practices of setting up case files, case filing and case management.
Knowledge of pertinent federal, state and local rules, regulations, ordinances, and other regulatory standards applicable to the work.
Ability to interpret rules, regulations, and policies for effective decision-making in accordance with established precedent.
Ability to communicate professionally verbally and in writing.
Skill in researching, compiling, and summarizing data and information materials.
Ability to utilize personal computers, standard office equipment and standard software applications, e.g., word processors, database software, spreadsheet applications.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and communications with victims, witnesses, members of the judiciary, co-workers and the public.
Ability to organize work, establish priorities, meet established deadlines, and follow up on assignments with a minimum of direction.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
While performing the essential functions of this job the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and lift and/or move up to 10 to 20 pounds. While performing the essential functions of this position the employee is rarely exposed to disagreeable environmental factors.