Criminal Court Social Worker

Role and Responsibilities

·        Collaborate with Criminal Court panel members/ investigators on an interdisciplinary team to coordinate services for ongoing court matters.

·        Implement trauma informed care principles into holistic service delivery model in conjunction with program leadership team that impacts trauma informed service delivery to clients.

·        Maintain frequent and consistent communication with supporting documentation with the referring attorney to discuss case progress, client engagement and strategic legal plans.

·        Facilitate referrals to appropriate services to support client compliance with court that promote optimal outcomes.

·        Assist clients in accessing mental health and substance abuse treatment, housing, transportation and other critical services that may arise to successfully affect the disposition of court case.

·        Obtain client release forms to access information from service providers on behalf of the client and the attorney.

·        Prepare monthly attorney reports, document client progress, maintain best practices to promote client engagement.

·        Respond to emergency situations/ crisis by conducting rapid risk assessments and developing safety plans to ensure client wellbeing.

·        Complete comprehensive intake with client to identify needs and barriers to court obligations.

·        Enroll clients in public benefits/ resources to increase income.

·        Facilitate communication between client and attorney.

·        Maintains an appropriately high caseload to ensure effective facilitation of appropriate services and referrals to places, which not only ensures best outcomes for clients, but complies with court expectations.

·        Performs intake and assesses outcomes with referring attorney.

·        Provides written reports to attorneys and court staff where directed

·        Refers clients to appropriate agencies based on client/court need.

·        Communicates with other providers when directed to tract client progress

·        Maintains weekly case notes and tracks of the number of services performed during the week with clients through an electronic platform.

·        Reports to their Supervisor once a week for guidance

·        Remains HIPAA compliant with client documentation.

·        Abides by the NASW Code of Ethics

·        Performs other duties requested by Supervisor or Program Director.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

An applicant must be a Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW). At least 3-5 years’ experience with the courts system and/or the criminal justice system. Internships and volunteer work will be considered as experience for the court system and/ or the criminal justice system. Familiarity and connection with Erie County community resources is desirable. 

Preferred Skills

·        Advanced skills in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Outlook.

·        Excellent Communication and writing skills.

·        Positive attitude.

·        Knowledge of local resources for clients for mental health, housing, clothing, financial planning, jobs, and many other needs.

·        Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

Additional Notes

·        This position will not fulfill clinical hours to obtain a clinical social work license.

·        The agency will cover the cost for all CEUs for the social worker’s license to be maintained.

·        This is not a county position but is a non-profit position.

·        This agency offers competitive pay and excellent benefits.

·        We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Salaried: $60,500- $70,314