Job Summary Public Defender Services of West Virginia is seeking two Mitigation Specialists across two locations to staff its first-ever regional defense hubs: an innovative pilot project designed to bring holistic, client-centered representation to rural counties across the state. Mitigation Specialists will be housed within a Public Defender Corporation in Parkersburg or Kingwood, but will work most closely with private attorneys assigned to represent low-income people charged with felonies and misdemeanors. The Mitigation Specialist will get to know clients as people, not just case files: building trusted relationships, identifying real service needs, and connecting clients to community resources that can change the trajectory of a case. At the heart of the role is mitigation narrative work, weaving together client history and the possibility of change into a compelling, accurate picture that speaks to who someone is beyond the charges against them. Mitigation Specialists will have significant autonomy over their work, calling for real independence and ownership over the quality of work product that can make a meaningful difference in a client's life. As each Specialist will cover multiple counties, expect regular travel between regional hubs and courthouses as part of the job. Duties Client Services & Mitigation Lead and organize findings from client interviews to understand each client's circumstances, identify collateral consequences of arrest, and assess barriers to accessing needed services Connect clients with community-based resources and referrals (e.g., treatment programs, housing assistance, mental health services) to support case outcomes and long-term stability Develop mitigation reports that translate client history, mental and physical health information, and evidence of proactive steps taken into persuasive narratives supporting alternative sentencing and improved outcomes Identify mental health, substance use, housing, and other social factors relevant to a client's case, and develop appropriate mitigation evidence in coordination with attorneys Support Panel Attorneys by compiling reports, references, and supporting materials for use in court proceedings, including sentencing and mitigation presentations Build and maintain working relationships with local service providers, community organizations, and courthouse personnel across assigned counties General Maintain accurate, timely case documentation in the agency's case management database Collect and report data on client outcomes, resource availability, and emerging trends across the region Collaborate with agency staff to maintain and expand resource guides and referral materials Travel regularly between regional hubs, jails, courthouses, and client locations to conduct interviews and support attorneys Maintain the highest standards of confidentiality and professional ethics, including compliance with attorney-client privilege Perform other duties as assigned Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, social work, psychology, or a related field, and two years of experience in social services or indigent defense;

•or

•an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience Prior social work and/or mitigation experience within a public defender, legal aid, or criminal defense setting strongly preferred Lived experience is welcome Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Familiarity with substance use treatment, recovery support, mental health resources, and other social service systems preferred Basic knowledge of the criminal legal system and court procedure Demonstrated ability to conduct effective interviews with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, including clients who may be incarcerated, in crisis, or have limited trust in the legal system Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear mitigation reports Proven ability to build and sustain relationships with clients, attorneys, service providers, and community partners Ability to work independently with limited supervision, manage a caseload across multiple counties, and exercise sound judgment in sensitive or high-stakes situations Proficiency with standard office software and case management databases; ability to conduct online and database research Demonstrated commitment to public service, indigent defense, or social justice State employment offers a variety of benefits. Visit the Division of Personnel's Benefits Page to review full coverage: https://personnel.wv.gov/employee-benefits

Pay:

$30,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location:

In person