Juvenile Court Victim/ Witness Assistance Advocate

ABOUT THE ORLEANS PARISH DISTRICT ATTORNEY'S OFFICE (OPDA):

Jason Rogers Williams took office as the Orleans Parish District Attorney on January 11, 2021, and is building a 21st century prosecutors' office with a team of the best and brightest from around the country and a mission of being as smart on crime as the office has historically been tough on crime. It is the mission of OPDA to increase public safety through the ethical, consistent, and zealous enforcement of the law.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS AND DESCRIPTION

The Juvenile Court Victim/Witness Assistance Advocate provides direct support to victims and witnesses of crimes committed by juvenile offenders. This position ensures victims are informed, prepared, and supported throughout the juvenile justice process. The advocate works closely with prosecuting attorneys to facilitate victim communication, provide trauma-informed care, and connect victims with community resources.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Master's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Public Health, or a related mental health field (required)
• Experience in criminal justice preferred
• Strong organizational, communication and case management skills
• Commitment to victim advocacy within the juvenile justice system

JOB DESCRIPTION

• Serve as the primary contact for victims and witnesses of crimes committed by juvenile offenders
• Accompany victims to court, offer emotional support, and assist in trial preparation
• Provide victims with case updates, explain the juvenile justice process, and inform them of their rights
• Assist with Crime Victims Reparations (CVR) applications and victim notification registration
• Coordinate victim meetings with prosecuting attorneys regarding case details, restitution, and plea negotiations
• Maintain accurate case documentation and participate in case reviews
• Engage in community outreach and crime prevention education
• Attend annual continuing education and training in victim advocacy

The Juvenile Victim/Witness Advocate will be based outside of the District Attorney's main office and will report to the Chief of Juvenile Division, assigned Juvenile Court ADAs and the Chief of Victims Services.

SALARY

$47,500 - $50,000

BENEFITS

New hires may be eligible for:

• Enrollment in the City of New Orleans health insurance plan
• 6.44 hours of sick leave and vacation leave per month (approximately 10 days per year)
• Enrollment in the New Orleans Municipal Employees' Retirement System
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
• A generous paid holiday schedule

EEO STATEMENT

OPDA is an equal opportunity employer. The office values a diverse workforce and management reflective of the communities that is serves. Accordingly, OPDA adheres to a policy of making employment, promotion, and other personnel decisions without regard to race, culture, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, caregiver status, age, disability, or other legally protected status.

Salary

• $47,500 - $50,000/year