Responsibility for assisting City Attorney's office, primarily the Criminal Division, in a variety of tasks designed to provide efficient delivery of statutorily mandated services, to victims and witnesses of violent crime identified in cases handled by the Criminal Division, including coordinating witness and victim involvement, interviewing, investigating facts, preparing documents, maintaining files, and administering grants that fund victim services provided by the Criminal Division. This position reports to and performs work under the general direction of the City Attorney. Interviews victims, witnesses, law enforcement and other individuals to obtain information on a variety of complex and sensitive subjects; determines information appropriate for release. Effectively interviews, presents information and responds to questions from victims, witnesses, City departments, Municipal Court, elected officials, and the general public. Assists in coordinating testimony and absences from employment for witnesses/victims to attend hearings, trials and other required appointments. Acts as liaison between attorneys, victims, witnesses, members of external agencies and the general public. Confers with law enforcement officials, prosecutors, victims and witnesses regarding cases and case status. Investigates cases to assist victims and witnesses to be prepared for hearing, trial or other disposition. Ensures records and files related to work performed are accurate and up to date and electronically stored; maintains records of contact and documentation with victims for grant and other purposes. Assists in obtaining return or appropriate disposition of property held as evidence or via restitution requests. Attends court proceedings as necessary and provides competent information to Municipal Court. Coordinates and supervises grant process for Victim Witness program including preparing grant proposals, applications and periodic reports, researching grant availability, and preparing and submitting grant related material to the City Commission for approval. Obtains and accurately relays information to and from attorneys, departments, witnesses and the general public regarding cases and office procedures, while following applicable laws and regulations when releasing information. Performs other duties as assigned. Graduation from a college, university or similarly accredited educational institution with a degree in sociology, psychology, human services, criminal justice, paralegal studies, or a closely related field. Minimum of three years of related experience and/or training preferred.

NECESSARY SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS

Must authorize and pass a criminal background check. Possession of a valid Montana driver's license. Ability to appreciate, comprehend and account for needs, problems, attitudes and behavior patterns of emotionally vulnerable individuals. Ability to effectively interview, present information and respond to questions from victims, witnesses, City departments, Municipal Court, elected officials, and the general public. Ability to establish and maintain effective, professional working relationships with victims, witnesses, co-workers, supervisors, outside attorneys, court officials and the general public, including the handling of difficult situations. Ability to understand and adhere to strict confidentiality guidelines regarding criminal justice information and private employment or other information and demonstrate integrity in handling confidential information. Ability to work independently, to adapt to change in the workplace, including unexpected delays or events, and to react well under pressure. Possesses and maintains proficient knowledge of criminal legal terminology, procedures, practices and processes. Possesses working knowledge of standard office equipment (including computer, photocopier, fax, multi-function telephone, and other equipment); and use equipment and materials properly. Possesses working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, PineTech, FullCourt, records management, and/or other software to complete assignments. Ability to adhere to applicable ethical standards and policies. Ability to interact constructively with others in a collaborative "team" setting; treat others with respect and consideration regardless of status or position. Possesses proficiency to effectively write reports, business correspondence, and records for attorney review and approval. Additionally, is proficient in editing, grammar and spelling. Ability to be punctual in delivery of services and in attendance.

CORE COMPETENCIES

Strong Interpersonal Skills Ethical Conduct Highest Degree of Confidentiality Customer Service Problem Solving/Analysis Effective Communication Skill Proficiency

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position does not supervise any other positions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is conducted in an office setting, as well as in Municipal Court or other courts of law. In addition, work may be conducted in private residences of witnesses. Position may involve exposure to disagreeable elements on an intermittent basis, including dealing with emotional or upset people, threats of injury or assault, violence or offensive language.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to perform general sedentary physical work and to lift and carry up to 20 pounds at a time; the ability to stand, walk, sit, bend, twist, reach, ride and perform similar body movements; possess strong hand/eye coordination sufficient to operate a personal computer, office equipment and a motor vehicle; the ability to talk and hear in person or by telephone; and the ability to see and read instructions and reports and legal documents.

EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK

The work schedule is a 40-hour work week, Sunday through Saturday. Work is generally performed Monday through Friday. There are routinely occasions when more than 40 hours in a work week are required. This position is exempt and ineligible for overtime. TRAVEL Travel is primarily local during the business day. Occasional travel may be required to attend off-site training and educational opportunities.