Victim Advocate

VICTIM ADVOCATE

GENERAL PURPOSE

The Fourteenth Circuit Solicitor’s Office seeks a Victim Advocate to work with crime victims at its headquarters in Okatie, S.C., in Beaufort County.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES

• Monitors court cases in order to render assistance as appropriate.
• Identifies and assesses the needs of victims.
• Coordinates the assistance or service to victims of violence.
• Works alongside prosecutors and other Solicitor’s Office staff.
• Establishes liaison with other police agencies, governmental agencies and social service agencies.
• Personally assists victims by providing direct victim services.
• Advises victims of their rights and remedies.
• Prepares and timely submits required reports.
• Maintains a complete record system of victims.
• Performs training to various groups on direct victim services.
• Assists crime victims with filling out Crime Compensation Forms.
• Attends court proceedings
• Coordinates and networks with other crime victim advocacy programs.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Associate’s degree and/or two years’ experience working with crime victims, OR any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Special Requirements

• Valid South Carolina Driver’s License
• Must be willing to be on-call occasionally to assist crime victims.
• Must be willing to travel throughout the entire judicial circuit, to include Allendale, Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper counties.
• Must obtain VSP (Victim Service Provider) (OVSEC) Certification within one year of employment.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of appropriate state and local laws relating to crime victims; legal terminology, court practices and procedures; modern office procedures to include personal computers.
• Familiarity with the South Carolina Victims Bill of Rights
• Ability to: interview victims and obtain relevant information; communicate effectively, verbally and in writing; follow written and verbal instructions; prioritize tasks; establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and the public.

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT USED

Desktop/laptop computer, including word processing and spreadsheet and database software; phone, fax machine, copy machine.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work is performed primarily in an office setting and in General Sessions Court.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $34,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person