Domestic Violence Advocate - City of Kirkland
Domestic Violence Advocate - City of Kirkland ( Job # 19-0122)
Maximum Salary: $37.26 per hour
Employment Type: Full Time
Department: Police
Open until filled.
(Open to current employees and the general public.)
Summary
The Domestic Violence Advocate provides victim support, notification of rights, domestic violence education and resource referrals to victims of domestic violence.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES
- Review all police reports related to domestic violence. Assess reports to determine if follow up contact is needed by either a DART volunteer or the advocate.
- Provide immediate crisis intervention assistance to victims, assess safety concerns, provide appropriate victim referral to community-based agencies such as Life-wire, and inform victims of legal options to assist in development of comprehensive safety plans.
- Attend court hearings in Kirkland Municipal Court when victims are present to provide assistance and support. When requested, provide input in court reinforcing victim’s interests.
- Manage department’s Domestic Abuse Response Team (DART) consisting of 8-16 community volunteers. Create staffing schedules, plan monthly meetings to provide ongoing training and coordinate with the city volunteer coordinator to keep DART appropriately staffed.
Interact with members of the criminal justice system such as police personnel, court personnel, probation counselors, treatment providers, CPS case workers, and jail screeners. Disseminate necessary information and maintain open lines of communication. Explain legal processes to victims, prepare victims for court and accompany victims to court.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology or related field, or minimum five years experience in a criminal justice agency, counseling environment or legal services agency/firm working with domestic violence and/or youth issues. Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills and be able to handle multiple tasks. Ability to interact effectively with diverse populations and use tact, discretion and courtesy. Advanced computer proficiency required. Must have a valid Washington State driver’s license. Must be able to obtain a police security clearance including polygraph, psychological and background prior to hire.
Preferred QualificationsPrevious work experience in domestic violence advocacy work at a law enforcement agency desirable.
Hours of WorkTo be mutually determined at time of job offer. Flexible work schedule is available.
Working Conditions & Physical ActivitiesWork is primarily performed in an office environment. Some travel is required for court appearances, victim interactions or coordinating with social service providers.
Union AffiliationThe Kirkland Police Guild represents the Domestic Violence Advocate position.
Selection ProcessApplicants who submit a timely application and are invited to participate in further stages of the selection process will be notified by phone or email.
The selection process includes a full background investigation to include polygraph, psychological, and medical background.
Attachments
Location
Kirkland Justice Center
11750 NE 118th Street
Kirkland, WA