Legal Advocate - New Beginning

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Work is performed under the general supervision of the Program Manager.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: None.

DUTIES: Provides domestic violence advocacy services for victims/survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking in order to promote self-determination and safety. Complete intakes and need assessments for clients seeking legal advocacy services to determine eligibility for services and address the needs of the client. Creates and maintains client and case files for statistical and grant funding reporting purposes. Orientates clients due process to provide guidance and follow through the Tribal, State and Federal legal systems. Assists clients in filing legal documentation, obtaining medical documentation, police report and other documentation to support their case and other services to properly serve a victim. Facilitate pre-hearing group sessions for clients to prepare client for court and take part in testimonials. Accompany clients to court proceedings to provide client representation, support and safety during court proceedings. Coordinates with law enforcement staff, tribal court representatives, victim assistants and other Tribal and non-tribal agencies to support victims through outreach and serve clients in shelter regarding domestic violence. Provides emotional support and accompaniment through the legal process to provide support for the well being and safety of the client and to provide education to the client the court system process. Maintains confidentiality of clients with accordance with Tribal and Victim Against Women Act (VAWA) standards. Prepare statistical reports to record progress and services delivered in compliance with funding agency requirements. Submit monthly written briefing reports and legal advocacy outreach plan in accordance with grant funding reporting requirements. Prepare monthly/quarterly statistical reports related to Crisis Call Reports and Follow-up forms to monitor program activities. Prepare quarterly statistical reports and brief narratives of services to comply with grant funding reporting requirements. Identifies legal advocacy needs of victims to provide domestic violence education, file protection orders and/or other legal representation in court per clients needs. Conducts outreac h activities at the public and provider levels to provide domestic violence education to the community and program services. Coordinates with the Tribal Court, Law Enforcement and Prosecutor to establish guidelines for legal representation that enhances victim safety. Assists clients in obtaining legal services and related information, making referrals as necessary. Conducts educational awareness activities to the community and to other program service providers regarding domestic violence awareness. Network with other agencies to aid with victims/survivors. Performs other activities, duties, and tasks as assigned by the supervisor. Attends and/or presents at mandated meetings/trainings. Assists with the on-call response to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence incidents.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES: Knowledge of Tribal, State and Federal court systems, Tribal statues, rules, regulations, and codes. Familiarity with the dynamics of domestic violence. Knowledge of principles, practices, and methods of legal research. Knowledge of judicial procedures and rules of evidence. Knowledge of court processes, administrative law processes, and legal terminology. Knowledge of legal strategies, their development and presentation. Knowledge of community agencies available locally. Knowledge of the Privacy Act and sensitivity of confidential information. Knowledge and awareness, sensitivity and understanding of the Zuni culture and tradition. Skill in oral and written communication. Skill in records analysis. Skill in operating a personal computer, in use of software application, and in conducting internet searches. Skill in establishing, maintaining, and improving cooperative working relationships. Skilled with interviewing techniques. Ability to work with client population with a specialization in legal advocacy. Ability to demonstrate sensitivity and empathy. Ability to serve as a liaison between victim services and the legal system. Ability to utilize multi-tasking skills and attend to detail. Ability to write reports and complete forms as required and in a timely manner. Ability to operate a computer and related Microsoft Office software. Ability to follow verbal and written instructions. Ability to handle stress and crisis situations. Ability to utilize sound judgement and problem-solving skills. Ability to work in a team environment. Ability to maintain good working relationships with tribal employees, tribal court, law enforcement, prosecution, related outside agencies, and the general public. TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE Associate Degree Criminal Justice, Psychology, Human Services or a related field; with two (2) years of experience in victim assistance, law enforcement, and/or court processes. Zuni language fluency preferred, but not required. LICENSE & CERTIFICATES Valid New Mexico Driver’s License with no DWI/DUI convictions within the past three (3) years. Driving is an essential part of the duties.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The position requires minor physical exertion such as periods of standing, walking over rough uneven surfaces, some recurring bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching, or similar activities. The position may require recurring lifting of lightweight objects with infrequent bending or stooping alternating with the lighter activities. The position requires minimal agility and dexterity. Regular exposure to favorable conditions such as those found in a normal office.

SPECIAL WORKING CONDITIONS: Must have no criminal or domestic violence convictions. Must be alcohol and drug-free. Position is subject to Pre-Employment drug testing. Position is Safety Sensitive and will be subject to random drug screening for duration of employment. Must undergo and pass a thorough background check including FBI Fingerprints. Must be willing to work a flex schedule and respond to on-call duty that may include evenings and weekends. Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.