Legal Advocate

Assists victims/survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and/or stalking, to navigate the complexities of the criminal and civil legal justice system.

Direct Service Responsibilities:

1. Works with clients by phone, email, in person and in court.
2. Provides information about orders of protection, family and criminal court, and rights of crimes victims under state and federal law.
3. Provides information and referrals regarding legal and other community resources.
4. Assists clients in safety planning, identifying options, and problem solving.
5. Provides client-centered advocacy to meet identified client needs with law enforcement, service providers and others.
6. Assists clients with completing, filing and serving personal protection orders and/or family court documents. Attends court hearings in a supportive capacity.
7. Accompanies clients to other hearings as required.
8. Notifies supervisor of high-risk situations in work with clients.
9. Maintains professional boundaries with clients.
   

Advocacy, outreach and organizational representation:

1. Provides community education.Provides professional training to groups such as law enforcement and other partner agencies.
2. Attends Coordinated Community Response monthly meetings. Actively participates in assigned community meetings.
3. Establishes and maintains collaborative relationships with community partners.
4. Safeguards confidential information gained as a result of the job.
5. Works cooperatively with program participants, YWCA staff, and volunteers.
6. As a YWCA employee, projects a positive image to the community.
7. Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Bachelor’s degree in human services, criminal justice or related field required.
2. Ability to comprehend and analyze legal information, including statutes and relate the information to clients in layman’s terms.
3. Bilingual in Spanish and English required.
4. Two years of experience working with trauma survivors from historically marginalized communities preferred.
5. Prior experience in crisis intervention preferred.
6. Knowledge of the legal rights of victims, civil and criminal legal systems preferred.
7. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
8. Proven ability to set priorities and fulfill responsibilities.
9. Ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds.

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS:

1. Familiarization with YWCA Personnel Policies and Mission.
2. Appropriate training and in-service which will occur during employment.