Victim Advocacy Coordinator - Bilingual English/Spanish Preferred

Position Overview

The City of Yakima Legal Department seeks a compassionate, bilingual English/Spanish individual to serve as a Victim Advocacy Coordinator. This role centers on providing crucial support, outreach, and assistance to victims of domestic violence and related offenses while working collaboratively with law enforcement, prosecutors, and community organizations. The role is funded by a grant currently approved through September 30, 2027, with no guaranteed continuation thereafter.

Compensation and Location

Salary ranges from $4,837.73 to $5,876.00 per month. The position is based at the Dick Zais Law and Justice Center in Washington State, with the option of remote work as designated.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide direct support and services prioritizing the safety of domestic violence victims.
• Conduct outreach and initial assessments of victims and witnesses, gathering information on the crime and any history of abuse.
• Document victim reactions and trauma impacts thoroughly, collect relevant evidence such as victim statements, medical records, and police reports.
• Serve as a liaison between victims/witnesses and the criminal justice system to educate and clarify legal proceedings, reducing anxiety.
• Assist victims in navigating court procedures, ensuring their attendance and preparation for hearings.
• Facilitate protective legal orders including no contact and restraining orders, making recommendations as appropriate.
• Collaborate with police, jail staff, treatment centers, and legal personnel to exchange case information and prepare prosecutorial materials.
• Recruit, screen, and train volunteer legal advocates who support victims through court processes.
• Coordinate and attend meetings of the City Coordinated Response Team, evaluate and improve community response protocols.
• Manage sensitive communications with professionalism, maintaining confidentiality and discretion.
• Use computer software for documentation, report preparation, and grant tracking.
• May testify in court as required and represent the City on committees focused on domestic violence prevention.
• May need to travel locally to meet with community organizations and agencies related to domestic violence issues.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in counseling, social work, or a related area plus at least one year of experience serving victims or witnesses in social work, law, or related fields.
• Alternatively, an associate degree in paralegal studies or similar and at least three years of relevant experience; two additional years of experience may substitute for the associate degree.
• Previous experience and/or training in domestic violence support or victim advocacy strongly preferred.
• Typing speed of minimum 35 words per minute.
• Bilingual and biliterate proficiency in English and Spanish preferred.
• Must be able to obtain necessary domestic violence training and bonding as a Washington State notary public.
• Must successfully complete a Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) background check and obtain CJIS ACCESS authorization prior to employment.

Knowledge and Skills

• Understanding of relevant federal, state, and municipal laws, regulations, and procedures related to domestic violence and victim services.
• Familiarity with crisis intervention, counseling techniques, victim advocacy, and criminal justice processes.
• Knowledge of local community resources and social service agencies.
• Strong verbal and written communication, including ability to clearly present sensitive or complex information.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, and experience with databases and report writing.
• Ability to handle confidential information with tact and discretion.
• Competence in performing case assessments, documentation, and statistical reporting.

Additional Information

• Regular, reliable attendance and punctuality are required.
• The position involves occasional local travel and may require court appearances.
• Ongoing professional development and legal research to stay current on legislation and community resources are expected.
• This is a grant-funded position with employment contingent on continuation of funding.