What are the responsibilities and job description for the Victim Advocate position at Spanish Fork City?
VICTIM ADVOCATE
DEPARTMENT: PUBLIC SAFETY
JOB CLASSIFICATION: FULL TIME
PAY GRADE 6
PAY GRADES LINK
GENERAL PURPOSE
Under the supervision and direction of the Administrative Lieutenant, and general supervision of the Chief of Police, the Victim Advocate assists victims of crime through the judicial process by providing information regarding the legal process, and resources such as shelter, treatment, education, legal assistance, and financial aid. Acts as a liaison between law enforcement and victims.
Essential Functions
DEPARTMENT: PUBLIC SAFETY
JOB CLASSIFICATION: FULL TIME
PAY GRADE 6
PAY GRADES LINK
GENERAL PURPOSE
Under the supervision and direction of the Administrative Lieutenant, and general supervision of the Chief of Police, the Victim Advocate assists victims of crime through the judicial process by providing information regarding the legal process, and resources such as shelter, treatment, education, legal assistance, and financial aid. Acts as a liaison between law enforcement and victims.
Essential Functions
- Responsible for writing and obtaining VOCA grants as well as maintaining proper records and statistical information for the proper management of the grants.
- Coordinates domestic violence training for the Spanish Fork Police Department.
- Attends sex crimes sex task force meetings as well as other pertinent training or seminars.
- Provide liaison and coordination between the Spanish Fork City Police Department and prosecuting agencies such as the Spanish Fork City Attorney's office; the Utah County Attorney's office, the Utah Attorney General's office for victim services, mental health professions, rape crisis centers and case follow-up.
- Reviews and assesses violent crime reports as reported to the police by crime victims, witnesses, etc.
- Contacts victims of violent crimes (particularly domestic violence); provides information regarding legal process, resources (shelter care, treatment and education programs, legal assistance, financial aid), and investigation process.
- Keeps statistical records of victim contacts and other job functions.
- Provides emotional support and crisis intervention for victims of crimes.
- Obtain restitution information from victims and provide alternate means for the victim to be compensated for damages incurred as a result of criminal behavior.
- Coordinates and networks with other crime victim advocacy programs.
- Follow up with crime victims; (inquire if the victim has any new or pertinent information for the investigator, follow up courtesy phone call.)
- Assists the Spanish Fork City Police Department secretarial staff in regards to record keeping and secretarial duties. May be asked to staff the police department in the absence of secretarial staff.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Administrative Lieutenant and/or Chief of Police.
- Education and Experience: Must possess a high school diploma or GED. Associate's degree preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience (4) years may also be considered. Prior experience in a law enforcement setting is preferred.
- Special Requirements
- Valid Utah Driver's License
- Must be willing to occasionally respond to crime scenes to assist victims.
- Knowledge of appropriate state and local laws relating to domestic violence and crime victims; legal terminology, court practices and procedures; modern office procedures to include the Spillman reporting system and other report management systems.
- Ability to interview victims and obtain relevant information; communicate effectively, verbally and in writing; follow written and verbal instructions; prioritize tasks; track and monitor funds; establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and the public.