Victim Witness Program Specialist
POSITION SUMMARY:
The position of Victim Witness Program Specialist is serve as an advocate to victims and witnesses and assist them in navigating through the criminal justice system. This position also provides complex administrative functions. The Victim/Witness Assistance Program protects the rights of victims and witnesses of crime set forth in Chapter 950 of the Wisconsin Statutes and Wisconsin State Constitution.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each duty satisfactorily. Other duties may be required and assigned.
• Receives, screens and directs inquiries both by phone and in person, from victims, other service providers, attorneys, law enforcement and the general public.
• Processes incoming and outgoing mail; answers telephone inquiries related to program; maintains, organizes, and keeping up to date records and files.
• Provides direct services including contact with victims to assure victims are provided information related to court appearances and hearings, as well as informing them of changes in the time and date of those appearances and hearings.
• Serves as an advocate and liaison on crime for the victim’s behalf assuring their rights are protected.
• Works as a liaison between victims, witnesses and prosecutors.
• Provides court support to victims and/or petitioners and witnesses during trials, hearings and injunction hearings.
• Assesses the victim’s emotional, physical, safety and financial needs; makes referrals to community resources; provides information regarding the Wisconsin Crime Victim Compensation program and assists with application.
• Provides limited short-term counseling or crisis intervention services to crime victims.
• Provides appearance information to witnesses; provides employer intercession services when requested; seeks to resolve any appearance problems to assure witness appearance in court; notifies witnesses and law enforcement agencies of changes of cancellation of court dates.
• Compiles restitution documentation, including estimates, medical bills, insurance documentation etc. submitted by victims. Prepares restitution worksheet to be submitted with supporting documents to the DA Office, the courts, and defense attorneys. Works collaboratively, with victims to determine accurate restitution to assure victims receive compensation for their losses. Accompany victims to hearings in which they are required to testify.
• Works with social service agencies, law enforcement agencies, social services and community organizations to provides a coordinated community response for crime victims and the victimization experienced.
• Participates in ongoing training, classes, courses, etc. regarding changing laws, developments in services and specialties, etc.
• Works with volunteers and student interns in coordinated effort to provide services within the victim/witness assistance program.
• Other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
• Bachelor’s Degree in criminal justice, social work, sociology, or psychology, or other closely related field.
• Three years previous experience working within the criminal justice system, working with crime victims or working with individuals in crisis.
LICENSES, CERTIFICATES, AND OTHER REQUIREMENT
• Must successfully pass criminal background check.
Full Wage Range: $25.80 – $35.95
Expected Wage Range: $25.80 – $29.19
FTE: 1.0
Department: District Attorney
St. Croix County is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. We take affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to an individual’s race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, gender identity, disability, marital status, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics
Deadline Note: