Victim Witness Advocate

• Provides crisis intervention services for victims of and witnesses to crime and offers referral to counseling or social services. Counsels victims about their options with respect to participating in the criminal justice process.
• Assists victims, either directly or by referral, with services including: orders of protection from harm or threats of harm; preparation of safety plans; prompt return of property held for evidentiary purposes; and crime prevention.
• Prepares witnesses for participation in trial proceedings through counseling, courtroom tours, accompaniment to court, and explanation of judicial proceedings in which they will be participating.
• Provides victims and witnesses with information on any significant developments in the investigation and adjudication of the cases in which they are involved including: explanation of the steps in the criminal justice process and information on how to obtain the program’s services; information about case disposition; employer intercession services to minimize loss of pay and to ensure that victims and witnesses will be able to cooperate with criminal justice system demands while minimizing unnecessary trips to court.
• Provides written material and informs victims about compensation available to them as a result of their victimization and advises them on how to apply for it. Where appropriate, assists victims in completing applications for compensation, acts as liaison between victims and the Virginia Victims Fund, and provides follow-up on claims filed.
• Provides written material about and an explanation of victim impact statements and assists victims in completing and filing victim impact statements.
• Provides written material about restitution and advises victims of what they are entitled to under the restitution provisions of the Code of Virginia; if restitution is ordered, informs victims of that fact and monitors payments, as needed.
• Arranges transportation services related to the investigation or adjudication of the case, if necessary and advisable.
• Coordinates and implements direct services to crime victims, such as: disseminating victim assistance materials; recommending written interagency service agreements; maintaining a directory of social services and community resources available to crime victims; and attending relevant meetings as a program representative.
• Establishes and maintains case files and other documentation to include any necessary grant related documentation that may fund and / or supplement this position.
• Maintains all policies and procedures set forth by the Commonwealth’s Attorney including, but not limited to, a Statement of Appointment, Policy of Confidentiality, and social media Policy.
• When appropriate and as required by law, review plea agreements with victims in conjunction with Commonwealth’s Attorney to ensure victims rights are being honored as stated in the Victims Rights Act.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Possession of a high school diploma/GED, plus college courses in criminal justice, sociology, or a related field.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in direct delivery of human services.

Salary : $41,808 - $50,170