Victim/Witness Advocate I

General Statement of Duties:

Under supervision, to provide a variety of services to victims and witnesses of crimes in accordance with the Victim/Witness Program in the County District Attorney's Office; to learn to interview victims and witnesses, assessing needs and making referrals; to assist with the development of community resources for victim/witness assistance; to represent the Victim/Witness Program with community organizations and agencies; and to do related work as required.  This classification is a for cause, non-exempt position.

Distinguishing Characteristics:

This is the entry and first working  level in the Victim/Witness Advocate  class series.  Incumbents learn and perform a variety of basic victim/witness and program support services for the Victim/Witness Program.  This class is distinguished from the Victim/Witness Advocate II in that incumbents perform a lesser scope of assignments which do not require the same level of knowledge of the Victim/Witness Program.  When an incumbent becomes familiar with department and the Victim/Witness Program policies and demonstrates good sustained work performance, he or she may be promoted to the Victim/Witness Advocate II level. 

Reports to: 

District Attorney Administrator - Criminal Division 

Classifications Supervised: 

This is not a supervisory class.

Essential Functions:

Learns to interview victims and witnesses of crimes, advising them of restitution rights and the availability of services; learns to assess client's  needs and make referrals to appropriate community resources and organizations; keeps program clients aware of the status and disposition of cases; provides transportation for persons unable to get to court; explains program procedures, policies, and services; learns to work with community organizations to develop resources and appropriate referral services for victims and witnesses; learns to make presentations as necessary; maintains liaison  with law enforcement agencies; may provide some basic counseling and crisis intervention support for Program clients; maintains program records and enters data into a computer system; performs a variety of Victim/Witness Program administrative and support functions.

Knowledge of:

• Basic knowledge of rules and regulations governing victim/witness services and programs.
• Basic knowledge of the functions of public law enforcement agencies and the criminal justice system.
• Interviewing and record keeping techniques.

Desired Skills:

• Learn to provide a variety of client and program support services for the Victim/Witness Program.
• Learn to interview people, identify needs, and make appropriate referrals.
• Learn to analyze and interpret laws and regulations related to victim/witness services.
• Gather, organize, analyze, and present a variety ofdata and information.
• Prepare, clear, concise and accurate records and reports.
• Communicate with others from diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds..
• Elicit factual information from applicants and recipients in difficult circumstances of deprivation or emotional disturbance.
• Assist with development of community referral resources for the Victim/Witness Program.
• Learn to effectively represent the Victim/Witness Program in contacts with service providers, the public, community organizations, and other government agencies.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training or experience that would provide the knowledge and skills to successfully perform the listed duties is qualifying.  A typical way, but not required, to obtain the required knowledge and skills would be:

• Previous responsible work experience in a social service/public assistance, criminal justice, or law enforcement agency.
• Advanced training in social or behavioral science, criminology, or public administration is desirable.

Special Requirements:

 Possession of a valid and appropriate driver's license and reliable transportation.

Typical Physical Requirements:

Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk;  normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; lift and move objects weighing up to 25 pounds; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and FAX; and operate a motor vehicle.

Typical Working Conditions:

Work is performed in an office environment; may occasionally drive to other locations; continuous contact with other staff and the public.