Title: Victim/Witness Coordinator
Work Unit: County Attorney’s Office
Supervisor: Park County Attorney
Current Classification:
Pay Grades: 15 salary range $24.13- 29.86 Non-Exempt GRANT FUNDED POSITION
Position overview: The position administers the Victim Witness program grant which includes all aspects including processing the application, completing quarterly and annual reports timely and efficiently. On a daily basis it establishes communications with victim/witness or their advocates, advise victims/witnesses with information, locate witnesses required for effective prosecution and assist with case management. The position performs a wide variety of administrative professional level support functions for the County Attorney and staff Attorneys as they prepare for and try cases. This support position includes ensuring paperwork is proofed, filed, copied and forwarded, as applicable, to parties involved; that witness subpoenas are served and with a high degree of accuracy. In addition, the position may require some legal drafting of documents and independent research for documentation requested by the attorneys.
Each essential duty listed below makes up a portion of the job, and all other functions are included in Other Duties as Assigned. Duties of the position are not all inclusive and subject to change.
Victim/Witness Duties:
1) For the Victim/Witness program within the County Attorney’s office, coordinates and performs a variety of administrative work such as: scheduling; maintaining records; responding to requests for information or services; performing related administrative, planning and research activities; preparing correspondence, reports, statistical information, and budget materials; and, developing and assisting in the development of policies, procedures and training.
2) To administer and implement policies to keep victims/witnesses informed of the status of their case includes providing emotional support, educating them about basic concepts of criminal/juvenile trial system. To act as liaison between victims/witnesses and attorneys. To accompany victims to court and to meetings with prosecutors.
3) To assist victims with case status, Crime Victims’ Compensation, Victim Impact Statements and Crime Loss forms.
4) To assist victims/witnesses to obtain time off from work, arrange travel, lodging, child care, etc. for court process. Can assist them with social services, shelters, receiving property back, making restitution, etc.
5) To establish initial line of communication with victim /witness and advise them of statutory rights. Maintain communication regarding availability case consultation and litigation preparation.
6) To develop reports and maintain documentation of witness information, including making supplemental reports of pre-trial interviews, file notes and current contact information. This includes grant quarterly and annual reports along with filing the annual grant application. Coordination with the Grant Director is available for reporting and grant preparation.
7) To interpret and explain policy, regulations, statutes and operating procedures to victims/witnesses.
8) To coordinate with shelter and other victim services locally to ensure effective communication and effective partnership of services.
9) To ensure that paperwork to be served on a witness or defendant is sent to the appropriate law enforcement agency for personal service in a timely manner for court dates.
10) When directed by County Attorney, to assist Administrative Assistant provide discovery to defense counsel or to the defendant if requested, on each defendant’s case. Make copies of all reports, narratives, forensic results, and any other information directed by attorneys.
11) To conduct independent research into documentation for attorneys as requested, including research of old court files, documents from the clerk and recorder’s office, or calling other agencies to request documentation be forwarded.
12) To prepare drafts of legal documents for extradition of defendants from other states, including requesting governor’s warrants.
13) To make appointments for pre-omnibus meetings with Deputy County Attorney for all defendants not having counsel.
14) To deliver presentations and training sessions to staff, county personnel, the public, volunteers and other outside agencies and community groups.
OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED: Performs a variety of other duties as assigned by the County Attorney. This includes participating in special projects, filling in for other employees, participating in ongoing training, and a variety of other functions as needed. Attends approved seminars/workshops.
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A successful applicant will have knowledge of MT criminal procedure and its application to crimes and crime victims from initial prosecution through final depositions. Be familiar with law enforcement investigative procedures and courtroom testimony procedures. Be aware of local social services available. A self-starter, flexible, be adaptable to change and a quick learner. This work requires interpreting legal documentation; records management; research methods; customer service techniques; active listening skills, skill in the use of various computer software and systems; and the ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. This position must have the knowledge and ability to handle sensitive and confidential information on a daily basis. Daily application of
Education and Experience: The required ability and skills are typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school (or GED) plus three (3) years job-related work experience. Associates degree in Criminal Justice, Social Work, Psychology, Sociology or related field is preferred.
Ability to successfully work with crime victims/witnesses. Experience working with the public along with familiarity with legal terminology required for this position. (State of Montana). Must have the ability to multi-task while providing good customer service. Notary Public helpful.
