Victim Assistance Specialist

The Victim Assistance Specialist will have a varied caseload of all types of criminal cases and will work closely with assigned deputy district attorneys on their caseloads. They will also work closely with the Victim Assistance Team to ensure that all of the cases and court appearances will be covered on a daily basis. The primary functions of the Victim Assistance Specialist include: 

• Communicating with victims in person, on the phone, and in writing to inform them of their constitutional and statutory rights and assist them in asserting their rights.  

• Documenting in the computer database the nature and frequency of the victim contacts.  

• Accompanying the victim to various court appearances if requested.  

• Assisting in the documentation of possible claims for restitution.  

• Meeting with community partners to support joint efforts to assist victims of crime.  

• Presenting about the role of the victim advocate to community groups and partners.  

• Keeping up on current laws, policies and skills in the area of victim assistance and will be given opportunities for additional training and professional growth and development.  

Ideal Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): 

Knowledge of: 

• Victim advocacy. 

• The criminal justice system and the roles of the participants. 

• Victim rights under Oregon law. 

• The effect of trauma and appropriate response techniques. 

Skills to: 

• Assist victims in crisis, either in person or over the phone, using crisis intervention techniques while maintaining composure and professionalism. 

• Maintain a high degree of professionalism and confidentiality. 

Ability to: 

• Intervene with individuals in stressful situations and assess individual needs. 

• Establish and maintain effective working relationship with deputy district attorneys and/or probation and parole officers. 

• Investigate and document restitution claims. 

• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. 

To review the complete classification, including the full list of knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) associated with this position, use this link: https://www.washingtoncountyor.gov/hr/job-class/621 

Minimum Qualifications  

• An associate degree or equivalent in Criminal Justice, Corrections, Social Work, or related fields; and one (1) year of experience as an advocate in the justice system, probation, victim assistance, or other closely related areas serving vulnerable populations. OR 

• Three (3) years of work experience as an advocate in the justice system, probation, victim assistance, or other closely related areas serving vulnerable populations. 

Additional Requirements 

• Possession of a Victim Service Professional certification within one (1) year of hire date (DA's Office only). 

• Must pass a comprehensive background investigation

• Must obtain Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) certification within 30 days of employment.