What are the responsibilities and job description for the Legal Advocate position at YWCA York?
Position Summary
The Legal Advocate will serve as an advocate for survivors of violent crimes and as a liaison with the legal system, including attorneys, magistrates, courts, police, probation, and judges.
All YWCA York employees are expected to commit themselves to fostering a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and mission-aligned workplace culture, in support of the YWCA’s values of eliminating racism and empowering women.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Responsible for conducting in-depth client interviews, gathering and organizing information, and maintaining statistical data as required.
- Maintain confidentiality of client-related materials.
- Provide options counseling by introducing the client to legal options and explaining what to expect during court proceedings.
- Provide individual and group support, as well as court accompaniment for clients.
- Develop foundational knowledge of the criminal justice system, the Protection From Abuse (PFA) statute, and alternative methods of relief.
- Draft protection order petitions.
- Provide education and support in obtaining the client's legal rights and provide referrals and accompaniment to appropriate systems and agencies.
- Stay up-to-date and have a thorough understanding of all legislation that may affect victims of crime and/or the department.
- Maintain a cooperative working relationship with community agencies, including the county court system and the District Attorney’s Victim/Witness Program.
- Attends YWCA York-hosted and community special events as needed.
- Assist with responding to hospital calls during business hours.
- Adhere to YWCA York's conduct and service standards in accordance with funding agencies such as the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence (PCADV), Respect Together (Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape/PCAR), and the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD).
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field is preferred; however, comparable professional experience will be considered.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge/skills in the provision of services to victims through trauma-informed care
- Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills
- High level of discretion, confidentiality, and cultural competency
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
YWCA York Requirements
- Must support the YWCA mission to eliminate racism and empower women
- Clearances required: PA Criminal Background Check, Child Abuse Clearance, FBI Fingerprinting (or waiver affidavit)
- Completion of Mandated Reporter Training within 90 days of hire
- Reliable transportation and ability to travel to program sites as needed
Work Environment & Physical Demands
- This position operates in a professional environment
- May require driving in inclement weather
- Must be able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods
- Occasionally may need to lift supplies up to 20 pounds
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience
- Medical, dental, vision, and retirement plan options
- Paid time off, paid holidays, and family-friendly workplace practices
- Professional development and training opportunities
YWCA York is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). We celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and seek employees who represent the clients and community we serve. Therefore, we strongly encourage women, people of color, multilingual individuals, LGBTQIA individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply.