Victims Advocate (part-time) (County Attorney)

Job Skills / Requirements

Individual needed for a part-time position to provide services to victims of a variety of crimes. The Victim Advocate supports victims of crime and their families by providing trauma-informed direct advocacy within the criminal justice process and resource referrals.  The position ensures compliance with the Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights under Kentucky law and nationally recognized victim assistance standards.  Under KRS 15.760 and KRS 69.350 this position is formally recognized within the prosecutorial office and must complete required training and avoid engaging in the unauthorized practice of law. 

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Ø  Meet with crime victims and their families to provide direct advocacy, information, and support.

Ø  Conduct assessment of victims’ needs and provide information and referrals to community-based services including counseling, medical care, domestic violence and sexual assault programs, and other victim service providers. 

Ø  Provide victims with information about their rights under Kentucky law (including the Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights, KRS 421.500-421.530 in conjunction with Kentucky State Constitution section 26A) and the criminal justice process.

Ø  Accompany victims to case meetings, court proceedings (hearings, trial, sentencing) and other justice system appointments when requested.

Ø  Coordinate and advocate on behalf of victims to ensure timely notifications of hearings, continuances, plea agreements, trial, and sentencing, in accordance with Marsy’s Law.

Ø  Aid with victims’ registration on Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE) automated notification system for offender status upon arrest and release.

Ø  Provide post-sentence information.

Ø  Assist victims in applying for Crime Victims Compensation.

Ø  Maintain case records, monitor victim status and follow-up to ensure needs are addressed and communication is maintained with prosecutor.

Ø  Participate in the development of policies and practices that promote victim-centered and trauma-informed responses.

Ø  Follow statutory training requirements and adhere to prohibitions on the practice of law or political activity per KRS 15.760/KRS 69.350.

Ø  Agrees to complete training relative to the appropriate intervention with crime victims per KRS 15.570.

Position requires a bachelor's degree in a human services field (social work, psychology, criminal justice, etc.) and two years of experience working in the human services field or a court system or a HS education and at least four years of closely related work experience in the human services field or a court system.  Two years of the related work experience must have included professional contact with children or adults.  The position also requires the ability to communicate with a wide variety of people, maintain confidentiality, communicate in a clear and understandable manner, and keep an objective and supportive attitude toward clients. Prefer candidates who have experience and knowledge of domestic violence and how to work with victims and survivors, both children and adults.

It is anticipated that the selected individual will work three days per week, approximately 20 hours each week.

Please apply by June 10; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled.  We anticipate the person selected will begin employment in early July. 

Scott County Government is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversifying its workforce.    

Education Requirements (All)

High school diploma or GED