Job Description

Victim Witness Advocate

ABOUT THE OFFICE: The Northwestern District Attorney's Office (NWDAO) serves the people of Hampshire and Franklin counties and the town of Athol. In partnership with the communities it serves, the NWDAO is dedicated to the pursuit of truth, justice, and the protection of the public through fair and effective prosecutions and progressive prevention initiatives. Although the primary responsibility of the Office is prosecuting crime, we also have a strong focus on progressive education and prevention efforts in the areas of domestic & sexual violence, child abuse, juvenile justice, elders and persons with disabilities, and consumer protection. We are the law office of the People and are steadfast guardians of the rights and liberties of every citizen. We advocate for making our communities safer and stronger, while protecting civil rights and promoting social and racial justice.

POSITION SUMMARY: Primarily responsible for the provision of information, support and advocacy services for victims, witnesses and survivors throughout the criminal justice process by ensuring the delivery of mandated rights enumerated in M.G.L Chapter 258B.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITES:

• Offer direct services to victims, witnesses and survivors including crisis intervention, assessment and evaluation of needs for referrals, orientation of court procedures and accompaniment to court;
• Provide information and assistance to victims regarding their right to provide a Victim Impact Statement to the court;
• Compliance with the Victim Bill of Rights pursuant to M.G.L c. 258B including notification of all court hearings, postponements and continuances;
• Maintain ongoing communication with Assistant District Attorneys on mutual cases regarding case status, victim concerns and input;
• Establish positive relationships with outside service providers, other law enforcement agencies and court personnel for consultation and cooperation;
• Maintain case files in a manner commensurate with office policy;
• Document all case activity;
• Participate in Outreach and Public Awareness Education as required;
• Perform any other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in social services, criminal justice or related field; or associate's degree with 3 years of direct victim service
• Knowledge and experience in Criminal Justice System or direct victim services a plus;
• Excellent writing and communication skills;
• Bilingual Spanish fluency strongly preferred.

SALARY: $50,000 to $60,000 (depending upon experience) plus medical and other employee benefits.

BENEFITS: The NWDAO is pleased to offer a comprehensive benefits package to its employees. The overall benefits available include: Paid Vacation, Sick and Personal Leave Time; Health, Dental and Vision Insurance through the Commonwealth's Group Insurance Commission; and a pre-tax Health Savings Account optional plan. In addition, the NWDAO provides employees the opportunity to elect Life Insurance, Long-Term Disability Insurance, Deferred Compensation Savings, Tuition Remission, along with other programs. NWDAO employees also participate in the Commonwealth's State Retirement Plan, which can become a defined benefit plan for those that both vest and subsequently retire from state service. The NWDAO provides the ability for new full-time employees to accrue two weeks of paid vacation leave per year, up to 5 personal days of leave per year (depending upon the quarter of the year that one's employment begins), 11 recognized state / federal paid holidays, and the opportunity to accrue up to 9.375 hours of paid sick leave per month.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, INCLUSION & EQUAL OPPORTUNITY: The Northwestern District Attorney's Office is committed to cultivating and sustaining an equitable and inclusive work environment where diversity is celebrated and all employees feel valued, respected, and engaged. We strive to have a staff diverse in culture, background, and perspective. We afford equal opportunity to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, military status, sexual orientation, sexual identity, handicap/disability, gender, gender identity, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected class. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. In recruiting for our team, we welcome the unique contributions that staff can bring to our District Attorney office.

TO APPLY: Applicants must submit cover letter, resume and Employment Application Form (form located under the "Employment & Internships" tab at to michelle.palmisano@mass.gov.

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