Youth Services Officer

Overview

The Youth Services Officer role entails specialized coordination between the Juvenile Court and juveniles and their families regarding delinquent and unruly cases. This position involves supervising juveniles on probation to ensure compliance with court orders and probation conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct intake assessments by reviewing complaints and allegations of delinquent or unruly conduct to evaluate the need for court proceedings.
• Manage a caseload of probationary juveniles, ensuring adherence to Juvenile Court rules and orders.
• Engage with juveniles and their parents at homes, schools, and court facilities.
• Track probation compliance and court order observance, offering guidance, counseling, and crisis intervention when required.
• Prepare judicial recommendations for juveniles appearing before the court.
• Refer families to appropriate external agencies for additional support services as needed.
• Assess whether juveniles require detention and arrange pertinent court hearings.
• Collaborate with law enforcement agencies concerning juvenile arrests.
• Serve legal petitions to juveniles and maintain detailed records.
• Conduct supervised substance screenings for juveniles and adults under court direction.
• Schedule court dates in relation to juvenile cases and attend court sessions as necessary.
• Create, transcribe, and complete diverse documentation such as reports, correspondence, and logs.
• Review and process incoming documents and maintain filing systems for official records.
• Utilize computer software to input, retrieve, and correct data using word processing and spreadsheet programs.
• Coordinate and communicate with supervisors, court officials, law enforcement, school personnel, families, and other stakeholders concerning juvenile probation matters and case status.
• Handle incoming calls, providing assistance and information effectively.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of juvenile detention laws, probation regulations, and court procedures.
• Participate in pertinent workshops and training sessions to enhance professional skills.
• Carry out additional duties as assigned.

Essential Attributes

• Advocate for and uphold the principles and methods used within the Juvenile Justice System.
• Understand human behavior, individual abilities, personality traits, learning styles, and motivational factors.
• Adapt effectively in a dynamic work environment with shifting goals and priorities.
• Maintain tactful and professional communication, even in challenging or controversial circumstances.
• Keep workspaces and assignments organized for efficiency.
• Exhibit a consistently professional demeanor when interacting with the public, colleagues, judges, attorneys, and external agencies, emphasizing calmness, kindness, and effective communication.