Victim Witness Advocate Job at Northern Essex Community College, Pittsfield, MA

  • Northern Essex Community College
  • Pittsfield, MA

Job Description

Victim Witness Advocate

The Berkshire District Attorney's Office anticipates a full-time Victim Witness Advocate position opening. The VWA is responsible for providing crisis assessment and intervention, information and referrals and court advocacy services to victims, witnesses and their families throughout the criminal justice system. This position reports to the Director of Victim Witness Assistance Unit. Functions of the VWA The MA Bill of Rights (M.G.L. C 258B) establishes rights and services for crime victims to ensure they have a meaningful role in the criminal justice system. Crime can significantly impact a victim's safety, emotional and physical health, and financial security as they navigate the complex and often intimidating criminal justice system. The Victim Witness Advocate works on behalf of victims and witnesses, serving as a member of the prosecution team and works in partnership with ADAs, police, investigators, and other staff. VWAs build relationships with both criminal justice and community-based stakeholders to ensure victims have access to information, assistance and support. Responsibilities: Must have empathy and compassion for victims/witnesses of crimes Provide victims with informational written material/brochures explaining their rights in compliance with the Victims' Bill of Rights Provide victims with information about appropriate community resources for counseling, health and protective services, and crime victim compensation Provide outreach, education and training to service providers and community groups regarding victimization, victim rights, victim/witness services and the criminal justice system Learn about the needs of vulnerable populations in Berkshire County, existing disparities in the criminal justice & social service systems and working towards meeting these unique needs, while upholding the best potential access & equity to service delivery Work well in a fast-paced environment while being detail oriented and self motivated Communicate with Assistant District Attorneys (ADAs), Law Enforcement, Court Personnel, and Administrative Support in a professional manner Consult with ADAs throughout the case and ensure the victims' input is heard Maintain organized files, prepare correspondence & use a database to obtain information regarding cases Engage in ongoing education & professional networking to maintain a high level of knowledge in legal developments, trauma informed practices, and community resources

Qualifications · Bachelor's degree (may substitute lived experience for education requirement) · Strong written and verbal communication skills · Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail · Ability to multi-task and prioritize responsibilities in a fast-paced environment · Ability to work independently and as part of a team · Strong personal character & be able to handle sensitive and confidential information. · Working knowledge of the criminal justice system (will train the right candidate) · Interest in public service · Bi-lingual candidates are encouraged to apply Salary: $50,000 annually All full time positions offer a state benefit package that includes medical/dental/vision insurance, life and disability insurance, retirement plans, and paid vacation, personal and sick leave and paid parental leave. All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of background check. All positions serve at the pleasure of the District Attorney. Berkshire District Attorney's Office is an EEO Employer with a firm commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in hiring practices. Please send cover letter, resume and references to Contact.BerkshireDA-hiring@mass.gov. Official Title : Victim Witness/Advocate - D.A.

Primary Location: United States-Massachusetts-Pittsfield-7 North Street

Job: Legal Services

Agency: Berkshire DA Office

Schedule: Full-time

Shift: Day

Job Tags

Full time, Work at office, Shift work

Similar Jobs

MoTek Technologies

DSP / GPS / GNSS / INS Embedded Software / Firmware Engineer (Algorithm Developer) Job at MoTek Technologies

DSP / GPS / GNSS/INS Embedded Software / Firmware Algorithm DeveloperResponsibilitiesKey FunctionsDesign, simulation, and prototyping of digital...  ...learn and be comfortable in working in an environment with engineers of diverse backgrounds and... 

Prime HealthCare Staffing

Healthcare Recruiter Job at Prime HealthCare Staffing

 ...About the Role As a Travel Healthcare Recruiter, you will be responsible for sourcing, qualifying, and placing rehab therapy professionals in...  ...preferred)Demonstrated ability to retain travel clinicians and maximize assignment profitabilityStrong ability to negotiate and... 

US Oncology Network-wide Career Opportunities

Medical Assistant Job at US Oncology Network-wide Career Opportunities

 ...performance, etc. Under direct supervision, assists physicians and clinicians with patient...  ...signs, height, weight, allergies, and medication changes. -Obtains all necessary...  ...Assistants preferred. This is an entry level position requiring 0-3 years experience... 

Sunrise Senior Living Mgmt Inc

Med Care Manager Job at Sunrise Senior Living Mgmt Inc

 ...About Dignity: Dignity is committed to providing compassionate, respectful care while fostering a supportive workplace for our team members. At Sunrise Senior Living, we champion quality of life for all seniors. As a Caregiver, you are the heart of that mission... 

Pursuit

Territory Sales Manager Job at Pursuit

 ...Sales Recruiter | Recruiting Elite Sales Talent | Medical Device, Software, & B2B Were partnering with a growing player in the industrial packaging space looking for a technical-yet-personable Territory Sales Manager to join their team in the Inland Empire . This is...