Legal Advocate Reports to:

Caseworker andAdvocacy Coordinator Department:

Crisis Services Supervises:

Not Applicable Employment Status:

Full-Time FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt Position Summary Servicing Lee and Whiteside counties, the Legal Advocate (Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault) is responsible for providing on-site and remote counseling, crisis intervention, information, and support to domestic violence and sexual assault survivors throughout civil and criminal justice proceedings. This position requires the use of independent judgment in all service-related responsibilities. They will maintain the highest degree of confidentiality associated with performing the duties of this function. The Legal Advocate will also maintain, at all times, a commitment to quality client service on behalf of the YWCA Sauk Valley. The Legal Advocate is not a lawyer or medical professional and does not provide legal or medical advice to clients. Primary Job Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Documents all client contact, advocacy, referrals, and community contacts as necessary and according to internal and external requirements including those of external donors and funders from initial contact to the final court decision; Serves as liaison to and on behalf of the client with law enforcement and court officials; Accompanies clients to meetings with law enforcement and court officials and to appropriate court proceedings; Maintains client confidentiality as defined in the Illinois Domestic Violence Act; Works to fulfill funding requirements and participates in identifying goals and objectives for the upcoming year's funding applications. Some local and national travel may be required; Presents to community organizations to build community awareness and to provide education regarding domestic violence, sexual assault, and the availability of program services. Provides transportation and crisis intervention to adult clients and their dependent children requesting assistance; Provides individual and group counseling to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault regarding IDVA, legal remedies, crime compensation act, criminal sanctions, and other related areas; Identifies, explains, and clarifies options available to victims, including reporting to police and state's attorneys' offices; Assists clients in preparation for official law enforcement and court-related proceedings; Provides clients with assistance and support for completion of emergency and follow-up orders of protection; Assists clients and provides emotional support when violations of orders of protection occur; Provides training to law enforcement agencies; Provides mandatory 24-hour on-call direct service (in-shelter and hospital) as part of a staff rotation; Provides education and outreach to the public regarding program services.

• There are no supervisory responsibilities currently associated with this function unless otherwise assigned by the Director of Crisis Services.

Additional Duties and Responsibilities:

Some local and national travel may be required;

• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with local law enforcement and criminal justice officials;
• Develops and/or builds upon a list of potential client support agencies and partners;
• Advocates for criminal justice system policies and procedures that are supportive of the needs of domestic violence and sexual assault victims, the Illinois Domestic Violence Act, and availability of program services;
• Successful completion of 60 hours of mandatory in-house domestic violence and sexual assault crisis intervention training;
• Serves as a Mandated Reporter;
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree or equivalent formal training in criminal justice, human services and/or 3-5 years of experience in related field (preferably focused on sexual assault and/or domestic violence); Ability to assess levels of emotional distress and respond accordingly; Excellent organizational and computer skills; Knowledge of domestic violence and sexual assault best practices and survivors' support strategies; Excellent oral and written communication skills; Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships both internally and externally; Availability to work some evenings and weekends; A working telephone; Access to reliable transportation; Ability to take initiative and work independently and as part of a team; A desire for continual personal and professional growth and development; Commitment to and support of the YWCA Mission.

Physical & Mental Demands:

The position requires sitting, standing, stooping, bending, walking, climbing, speaking and driving. The functions of this position are varied in nature and require the ability to make clear and concise decisions and to respond in an effective and appropriate manner during crisis. The YWCA Sauk Valley provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any classification protected by federal, state, or local laws. YWCA of the Sauk Valley is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. Some of our

Benifits:

10.5% Retirement from the YWCA after one year. 4 weeks paid Parental(for mothers and fathers) leave Employer pays 80% of Employee insurance premium, Employee pays 20% Attainanble direct service hours that support a healthy work/life balance Opportunities for professional advancement through continued education and conferences when possible Time off: 5 personal days 12 sick days 10 vacation days for the first year-15 vacations days after first year 1/2 day Fridays in the Summer (June-August)-paid for full day At least 12 holidays a year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Flexible schedule Health insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$40,000.00 - $45,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Education:

Associate (Preferred)

License/Certification:

Driver's License (Required) Shift availability: Day Shift (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person