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NORTHAMPTON

Family Service Advocate Primarily responsible for the provision of information, support and advocacy services for child (under 18) victims, witnesses and survivors throughout the criminal justice process by ensuring the delivery of mandated rights enumerated in the Massachusetts Victim Bill of Rights.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Offer direct services to child victims and witnesses and their families including crisis intervention, assessment and evaluation of needs for referrals to outside agencies, orientation of court procedures and accompaniment to court Comply with the Victim Bill of Rights pursuant to M.G.L. c. 258B including notification of all court hearings, and continuances Provide information and assistance to victims and/or their parent(s)/guardian(s) regarding their right to provide a Victim Impact Statement to the court Maintain case files in a manner commensurate with office policy Document all case activity Maintain ongoing communication with Assistant District Attorneys on assigned child abuse cases regarding case status, victim concerns and input Establish and maintain positive working relationships with outside service providers, other law enforcement agencies, Department of Children and Families (DCF) and court personnel for consultation and cooperation Provide crisis assessment and intervention regarding child abuse, perform domestic violence screening and make appropriate referrals to outside agencies Attend forensic interviews (FI) of children victims and witnesses at the districts two CACs in order to provide support before, during and after the FI Participate as a member of a multidisciplinary team (with CACs, DCF and law enforcement) for purposes of interacting with child victims and assessing family needs, forensic interviews, investigations, case reviews, and prosecution of child abuse cases Participate in Outreach, Interdisciplinary Professional training and Public Awareness Education as required Coordinate advocacy for victims and families involved in probable cause hearings or trials for sexually dangerous person commitment proceedings Offer court coverage and support to the Victim Witness Assistance Unit as needed Perform any other duties as required

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor?s Degree in social services, criminal justice, early childhood education or related field, or Associate?s Degree with 3 years of direct victim service; Excellent writing and communication skills; A desire to work with children and families; Access to a reliable vehicle and ability to travel within the district; Knowledge and experience in criminal justice system, direct victim services, or child protection strongly preferred; and Bilingual Spanish fluency a plus.

TO APPLY

Applicants must submit cover letter, resume and Employment Application Form (form located under the Employment & Internships tab at www.northwesternda.org) to michelle.palmisano@mass.gov. Candidates are encouraged to visit the NWDAO website at www.northwesternda.org to learn more about the work of the office. Active Filters Family Service Advocate Northampton, MA Clear All Apply