Sentencing Guidelines Coordinator

Compensation Range:

Our full-time positions come with an array of excellent benefits including comprehensive healthcare coverage, a pension plan, flexible spending accounts and even a tuition reimbursement program.

At Lancaster County, we understand the importance of work-life balance. That's why we offer paid time off for sick, vacation and holidays, an employee assistance program, and family medical leave.

If you're passionate about making a difference, apply today to join us in serving the community!

Job Description:

JOB SUMMARY

• A Sentencing Guideline Coordinator is responsible for preparing all sentencing guidelines forms which will be relied upon by prosecutors when constructing plea offers, defense attorneys to convey possible penalties to their clients and judges when constructing and imposing sentence. 

• The guideline coordinator must be able to use independent judgement in all responsibilities including: extracting and interpreting the relevant data from a criminal history form to determine the nature and extent of each defendant's prior criminal history; determining the appropriate sentencing guidelines ranges, enhancements, and mandatory provisions to be considered when imposing sentence; and preparing the sentencing guidelines by entering data into the PA Commission on Sentencing Guidelines Software (SGS Web).

• This individual must have excellent analytical skills, must demonstrate keen attention to detail.

• The individual must maintain a reputation for objectivity, integrity, and accuracy in the performance of their duties so as to instill confidence and trust in the minds of the prosecutors, defense attorneys and judges who will rely on the documentation prepared.  

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

• This position reports to the Accelerated Disposition Supervisor with oversight from the First Assistant District Attorney.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Ensure that a J-NET or NCIC/CLEAN terminal inquiry is conducted for each case. 

• Research any in-county docketing information with no disposition received to obtain final dispositions of all charges.

• Contact out-of-county and out-of-state agencies to verify the specific nature and disposition of prior offenses, translate into equivalent PA statutes prior convictions from other states and obtain certified documentation from other jurisdictions.

• Prepare and record sentencing guidelines forms for all cases.

• Remain knowledgeable as to the current law regarding sentencing guidelines and alternatives, to include mandatory sentences and sentencing enhancements and departures.

• Respond to inquiries from other judicial, law enforcement, correctional or custody agencies and institutions regarding criminal histories originating in Lancaster County.

• Assist with training and evaluation of newly assigned Sentencing Guideline Coordinators

• Assist with discovery redaction for the Accelerated Disposition Court files and other case files

• Maintain confidentiality standards of the District Attorney's Office at all times.                                                                                                           

OTHER SPECIFIC TASKS OR DUTIES

• Maintain good communications between the other county agencies and outside agencies to meet established policies and procedures, objectives, program assessment and standards in order to aid the District Attorney's Office in attaining program goals.

• Perform other duties and assignments as required and directed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 

• Bachelor's Degree preferably in criminal justice, sociology or the administration of justice from an accredited institution or other relevant qualifying experience.  

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, be proficient in research, interpreting, and analyzing data and possess the ability to work collaboratively and independently to achieve stated goals.

• Possess strong organization skills and attention to details skills; and the ability to maintain flexibility to multitask as needed.

• Ability to communicate effectively with co-workers, support staff, attorneys and others within County Government.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to learn about the Criminal Justice System

• Professionally interact and communicate with others by telephone, written communication or in person meetings

• Knowledge of General Office Procedures and Practices.

REQUIRED LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS/CLEARANCES

• Must be JNET and NCIC/CLEAN certified which requires a one-time training and recertification every two years.  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Operate standard office equipment

• Sitting long periods of time in an office environment

The County of Lancaster offers comprehensive benefits to our employees.  Read more about our benefits here.

Lancaster County Government provides Equal Employment Opportunity for all persons regardless of race, religion, age, sex, national origin, genetic information or disability. The County also observes all applicable laws regarding Veterans status. The County reflects this action in all areas of employment and compensation practices and policies. Employment with the County is based upon the ability to perform the job as well as dependability and reliability once an individual is hired.