A Court Accompaniment assistant serves under the Criminal Justice Program which aims to break the cycle of abuse, educate victims about resources, and support them to achieve a life free from the grip of domestic violence. Beacon of Hope has formulated partnerships with five police departments around Indianapolis. Victim Advocates respond to police reports to offer the victim services, safety planning and address other needs that they may have. The Court Accompaniment Assistant helps Victim Advocates to serve our clients.
Primary Responsibilities:
Updating the victims on criminal cases within the criminal justice process
Assisting the victims in connecting with their assigned advocate within the prosecutor’s office on detailed information regarding their case
Helping the victims with preparation of a Victim Impact Statement
Accompanying the victims to court for criminal cases, protective orders or child in need of services (CHINS) cases
Providing the victims with empathy and support during court accompaniment
Answering victims’ questions during court accompaniment (training will be provided)
Assisting the victims with filing for protective orders
Taking detailed notes during court accompaniments upon request
Relay messages from advocates to attorneys and Department of Children Services case managers upon request
Helping the victims with Crime Victims Compensation Applications
Providing the victims with resources and referrals for medical, legal, shelter/housing, employment, clinics, counseling/support groups assistance
Providing follow-ups
Researching laws related to domestic violence and sexual assaults
DOES NOT give legal advice, always refers the victims to their attorneys
DOES NOT talk in court, even when judge asks the questions – The assistant must be subpoenaed in order to talk without breaking confidentiality
Maintaining building security by insuring that all doors stay locked at all times. Volunteers will never be alone in the building.
Supporting other staff and volunteers as needed
Maintaining cleanliness and care of the Center’s offices
Supporting other areas whenever possible.
Skills:
Ability to stay calm and use appropriate judgment under stressful situations
Critical thinking and evaluation skills
Attention to details in record keeping, coordination and documentation
Ability to handle multiple tasks
Excellent organizational skills
Ability to problem solve and make appropriate decisions in urgent situations
Ability to demonstrate professionalism
Ability to follow instructions
Positive attitude with callers, clients, staff and volunteers
Ability to work both independently and as a team
Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
Awareness and adherence to confidentiality and boundaries
Punctuality and dependability
Proactivity
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in criminology, criminal justice, law or related field [at least in process] OR previous experience in working with traumatized persons
Working knowledge of Microsoft suite including Word, Power Point and Excel
Excellent typing skills
Commitment to non-violent and cooperative work environment
Commitment to providing quality and equitable services to all clients regardless of race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, religion, age or sexual orientation