Special Victims Advocate/Liaison

Serves as a liaison between victims of domestic violence and sexual assault and the Police Department. Provides crisis intervention, advocacy, victim support and referrals to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Provides community outreach and education regarding the issues of domestic violence and sexual assault. Provides regular court accompaniment. Handles administrative aspects of the domestic violence unit. Also serves as advocate and liaison for victim/witnesses of other serious crimes and incidents. All other related work as required.

Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or social work and three years of directly related work experience in domestic violence and victim advocacy and outreach; or seven years of directly related work experience in domestic violence and victim advocacy and outreach.

Domestic Violence Counseling Certification.

Sexual Assault Counseling Certification.

Knowledge of the criminal justice system. Current knowledge of the dynamics and issues pertaining to domestic violence and victim/witness advocacy. Knowledge of the Massachusetts Domestic Violence Law Enforcement Guidelines, Massachusetts Victim Bill of Rights, court proceedings and 209A. Knowledge of community services and resources available to victims of domestic violence and other serious crimes. Knowledge of statistical methods.

Ability to communicate effectively at all levels of the organization. Able to maintain discretion with regard to confidential or sensitive information. Ability to speak in public to a varied audience.

Counseling and advocacy skills to provided supportive information and guidance to victims and their children, and complainants in domestic violence situations and other serious crimes. Proficiency in computers, including data base, word processing and spreadsheet software. Accurate data entry skills. Strong verbal and written skills.