SAFEPLAN ADVOCATE - Gardner

Job Title: SAFEPLAN Court Advocate                                      Department: Domestic Violence

Reports to: Senior SAFEPLAN Advocate                                 Effective Date: January 2025

Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8 am – 4:30 pm              Remote Position: No

Location: Gardner Court House

Job Summary:

As the SAFEPLAN Court Advocate you will represent the YWCA Central Massachusetts, supporting its mission by providing critical services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking within the court system. You will offer advocacy, safety planning, and assistance in navigating the legal process, including obtaining and maintaining M.G.L. c. 209A protective orders. You will serve as a liaison between SAFEPLAN and Domestic Violence Services, ensuring victims have access to the resources and support necessary to achieve safety and justice.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Provide court-based advocacy to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking, as well as their families.
• Assist individuals in obtaining abuse and harassment prevention orders through the court system.
• Offer confidential, comprehensive services to victims seeking protection from abuse, ensuring they are well-informed and empowered.
• Provide support, referrals, and empowerment advocacy to victims involved in the legal system.
• Explain the judicial process, including criminal and civil components, to individuals seeking assistance.
• Appear in court with program participants and advocate on their behalf with law enforcement, prosecution, and court officials.
• Facilitate referrals to additional legal services as needed.
• Assess participants' needs and connect them with appropriate support services.
• Develop and update safety plans with program participants
• Collect and report statistical data as required by the program.
• Refer victims to community resources and follow up to ensure they are connected with necessary services.
• Stay informed on current domestic violence trends and legal updates to enhance support for clients.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Supervisor, Manager, or Director.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Bilingual (Spanish/English) is preferred.
• Ability to advocate effectively for victims of domestic violence in court settings.
• Knowledge of the legal system, especially in relation to domestic violence, protective orders, and court procedures (preferred).
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts in an accessible manner.
• Empathetic, non-judgmental, and experienced in providing trauma-informed care.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
• Excellent organizational and documentation skills for managing client records.
• Ability to work collaboratively with law enforcement, court officials, and other service providers.
• Knowledge of community resources for victims of domestic violence and capacity to make appropriate referrals.

Education and Experience:

• Knowledge and experience in domestic violence advocacy, crisis intervention, and victim services.
• Experience working with diverse populations and understanding of cultural sensitivities.
• Experience working with community resources and collaboration with law enforcement agencies is highly desirable.
• Experience working with victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking, particularly in a court-based setting, is highly preferred.
• Familiarity with M.G.L. c. 209A protective orders and related legal procedures is a plus.
• Prior experience in advocacy, crisis intervention, and safety planning is highly desirable.
• College degree preferred 

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting or standing and working on a computer

Salary : $21