DescriptionJob Title: Senior SAFEPLAN Court Advocate Department: Domestic Violence
Reports to: Manager of DV Services Effective Date: January 2025
Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8 am – 4:30 pm Remote Position: No
Location: Travel is a requirement, valid driver’s license required
Job Summary:
As a Senior SAFEPLAN Court Advocate, you will represent YWCA Central Massachusetts, advocating for the mission and vision of the organization while providing essential support to victims of domestic violence in court-based settings. In this role, you will offer information on safety planning, explain the legal process related to obtaining and maintaining M.G.L. c. 209A protective orders, provide in-court advocacy, and refer victims to community resources. Additionally, you will help train new advocates, provide one-on-one supervision to SAFEPLAN advocates, and act as a liaison between SAFEPLAN and the community. You will also be responsible for providing coverage to various courts as needed.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
- Provide additional support to courts as needed, ensuring coverage across multiple locations.
- Conduct one-on-one supervision and offer guidance to SAFEPLAN Court Advocates.
- Manage court coverage by floating between SAFEPLAN court locations, ensuring consistent advocacy services.
- Review Advocates data collection for accuracy.
- Assist the Director in recruiting staff and interns.
- Assist in the reporting of monthly statistics.
- Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Manager or Director.
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Provide court-based advocacy services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking, and their families.
- Deliver confidential and comprehensive services to victims seeking protection from abuse.
- Provide support, referrals, and empowerment advocacy to victims navigating the court system.
- Offer clear and accessible information regarding the judicial system, both criminal and civil, to empower victims.
- Assist with arrangements for additional legal services and connect clients with appropriate resources.
- Assess clients' needs, including the lethality of their situations, and assist in creating personalized safety plans.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation and ensure all client records are up to date.
- Collect and report required statistical measurements for program evaluation and funder reporting.
- Keep current on best practices and trends in domestic violence, including legal updates and victim services.
QualificationsRequired Skills/Abilities:
- Strong experience in advocacy within the court system, particularly with domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking cases.
- Ability to train and supervise new advocates, providing mentorship and ongoing support.
- Knowledge of M.G.L. c. 209A protective orders and related legal processes, and ability to explain them to clients in an accessible manner.
- Strong crisis intervention skills, with the ability to assess and respond to high-risk situations.
- Empathetic, non-judgmental, and able to provide trauma-informed care to victims.
- Excellent communication skills, including the ability to effectively collaborate with law enforcement, legal professionals, and other service providers.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities across different court locations.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and uphold professional boundaries.
- Knowledge of community resources for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
Education and Experience:
- At least 3 years of experience in domestic violence advocacy or a related field, with a strong understanding of the court system and legal processes.
- Experience in training and supervising other advocates is preferred.
- Familiarity with M.G.L. c. 209A protective orders and domestic violence laws.
- Knowledge of community resources and legal aid services available to victims of domestic violence.
- Minimum of 2 years SAFEPLAN certification required
Physical Requirements:
- Prolonged periods of sitting or standing and working on a computer
