Legal Advocate

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the supervision of the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) Manager, the Legal Advocate plays a key role in supporting crime victims through the legal system. This position involves accompanying clients to court, preparing grant reports, managing client documentation, and using trauma-informed communication techniques. The Legal Advocate will work closely with Victims Services Department staff attorneys and coordinate with external attorneys, community organizations, and other stakeholders. The goal is to provide clients with comprehensive, empathetic support as they navigate their legal journeys.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Communicate with victims/survivors of crime using a trauma-informed approach.
• Attend court proceedings and provide emotional support to victims during the court process.
• Provide practical guidance and support through legal proceedings.
• Assist clients with finding and accessing resources, safety planning, and making referrals to other services.
• Identify and connect clients with community resources, support services, and social programs.
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with other teams within the Victims Services Department and partner service providers.
• Act as a liaison between clients and legal professionals, advocating for clients’ rights and interests.
• Assist staff attorneys with clients’ legal matters, including drafting pleadings, motions, correspondence, and discovery.
• Assess clients’ legal issues, offer initial advice per program guidelines, and help clients understand their rights and options.
• Refer clients to specialized legal resources and services as needed.
• Prepare and maintain detailed records of client interactions, case progress, and legal documentation.
• Ensure all records are accurate and comply with relevant privacy and confidentiality regulations.
• Communicate professionally with outside law firms, attorneys, and courts while ensuring client confidentiality.
• Other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Outlook, and Excel, for creating documents, managing schedules, and handling data.
• Capable of multitasking effectively and prioritizing tasks and deadlines to manage a busy workload efficiently.
• Highly organized with strong skills in maintaining accurate records and managing case files.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, able to clearly convey complex legal information to clients and colleagues.
• Able to maintain a professional demeanor while providing support to clients in crisis or experiencing trauma.
• Knowledgeable about criminal and civil justice systems, including relevant procedures, statutes, and the needs of crime victims.
• Aware of and sensitive to cultural differences, with the ability to provide inclusive support to clients from diverse backgrounds.
• Skilled in client advocacy, effectively representing clients' rights and interests in legal settings.
• Proficient in conducting legal research and analysis to support case preparation and provide informed recommendations.
• Committed to ethical behavior, including maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive client information responsibly.
• Experienced in coordinating with legal teams, external agencies, and clients to ensure effective case management and resolution.
• Ability to adapt to changing legal environments and client needs, demonstrating flexibility and problem-solving skills.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in a legal or advocacy role, particularly involving direct client support or legal assistance.
• Demonstrated experience in managing case files, preparing legal documents, and maintaining accurate records.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods during court proceedings and client meetings.
• Capacity to lift and carry documents and files, which may involve handling materials up to 25 pounds.
• Dexterity to use office equipment, including computers, printers, and phones, for extended periods.
• Visual acuity to read and review detailed legal documents and case files accurately.
• Ability to navigate different environments, including walking through court buildings and community organizations.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• Successful completion of applicable tribal drug test.
• Successful completion of applicable tribal background check.
• Must pass background investigation for suitability of character identified in accordance with the Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license with no serious violations.