SENIOR SAFEPLAN ADVOCATE

Job DetailsJob Location: YWCA Central Massachusetts - Worcester, MA 01608Position Type: Full TimeEducation Level: Not SpecifiedSalary Range: $26.28 - $26.28 HourlyTravel Percentage: NegligibleJob Shift: DayJob Category: Nonprofit - Social ServicesJob Title: Senior SAFEPLAN Court Advocate                         Department:  Domestic Violence

Reports to: Manager of DV Services                                      Effective Date: January 2025

Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8 am – 4:30 pm              Remote Position: No

Location: Travel is a requirement, valid driver’s license required

Job Summary:

As a Senior SAFEPLAN Court Advocate, you will represent YWCA Central Massachusetts, advocating for the mission and vision of the organization while providing essential support to victims of domestic violence in court-based settings. In this role, you will offer information on safety planning, explain the legal process related to obtaining and maintaining M.G.L. c. 209A protective orders, provide in-court advocacy, and refer victims to community resources. Additionally, you will help train new advocates, provide one-on-one supervision to SAFEPLAN advocates, and act as a liaison between SAFEPLAN and the community. You will also be responsible for providing coverage to various courts as needed.

Supervisory Responsibilities:


Provide additional support to courts as needed, ensuring coverage across multiple locations.
Conduct one-on-one supervision and offer guidance to SAFEPLAN Court Advocates.
Manage court coverage by floating between SAFEPLAN court locations, ensuring consistent advocacy services.
Review Advocates data collection for accuracy.
Assist the Director in recruiting staff and interns.
Assist in the reporting of monthly statistics.
Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Manager or Director.


Duties/Responsibilities:


Provide court-based advocacy services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking, and their families.
Deliver confidential and comprehensive services to victims seeking protection from abuse.
Provide support, referrals, and empowerment advocacy to victims navigating the court system.
Offer clear and accessible information regarding the judicial system, both criminal and civil, to empower victims.
Assist with arrangements for additional legal services and connect clients with appropriate resources.
Assess clients' needs, including the lethality of their situations, and assist in creating personalized safety plans.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation and ensure all client records are up to date.
Collect and report required statistical measurements for program evaluation and funder reporting.
Keep current on best practices and trends in domestic violence, including legal updates and victim services.

QualificationsRequired Skills/Abilities:


Strong experience in advocacy within the court system, particularly with domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking cases.
Ability to train and supervise new advocates, providing mentorship and ongoing support.
Knowledge of M.G.L. c. 209A protective orders and related legal processes, and ability to explain them to clients in an accessible manner.
Strong crisis intervention skills, with the ability to assess and respond to high-risk situations.
Empathetic, non-judgmental, and able to provide trauma-informed care to victims.
Excellent communication skills, including the ability to effectively collaborate with law enforcement, legal professionals, and other service providers.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities across different court locations.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and uphold professional boundaries.
Knowledge of community resources for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.


Education and Experience:


At least 3 years of experience in domestic violence advocacy or a related field, with a strong understanding of the court system and legal processes.
Experience in training and supervising other advocates is preferred.
Familiarity with M.G.L. c. 209A protective orders and domestic violence laws.
Knowledge of community resources and legal aid services available to victims of domestic violence.
Minimum of 2 years SAFEPLAN certification required


Physical Requirements:


Prolonged periods of sitting or standing and working on a computer