We are looking for a Forensic Social Worker to support and educate social workers in all client legal matters which may involve court appearances, assessments, court reports, and other related reports. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work or a related human services field, professional experience in working in the legal system, and strong public speaking and written communication skills.
Requirements
- Agency resource
- Serve as a resource for the Agency of specialized knowledge and skill in the area of forensics
- Understand the various roles (district attorney, public defender, etc.) and structures (probation department, etc.) within the court system
- Keep up-to-date with new policies and laws that impact forensics
- Maintains a database of information that is easily accessed by others
- Develop and conduct trainings internally for social workers; coordinate opportunities to bring in outside experts to share information and educate staff on the legal system and the basics of criminal court
- Educate staff on the Legal System and the basics of court proceedings
- Conduct and further develop existing training material for court officials to build positive relationships between the legal and regional center systems
- Understand the policies and deadlines for the Enhanced Behavioral Support Homes and STAR Homes and maintain paperwork and deadlines appropriately
- Social worker support
- Work with social workers to problem solve cases with the intent of reaching outcomes for clients
- Partner with social workers in court related cases; serve as lead in court appearances as needed
- Client and family support
- Educate and inform clients and families as to what to expect in a court situation
- Manage court assessments and cases and keep clients informed throughout process
- Project oversight and paperwork
- Manage deadlines for court dates and ensure that all paperwork is processed and handled in a timely manner
- Coordinate and organize all paperwork associated with court cases and reports
- Write reports with detailed and accurate information
- Miscellaneous paperwork
- Outreach
- Develop a network of expertise within the legal community to have access to information not easily accessible
- Collaborate with attorneys regarding cases; gather information and legal advice
- Develop relationships with judges and court officials and learn what is needed to be successful
- Educate community and individuals within the legal system regarding the Regional Center's mandates and responsibilities
- Advocate for client/family to reach a reduced court time, lesser sentence, get placed in a particular program, etc.
- Organizational Support
- Participate in staff and other internal meetings and task forces as assigned
- Participate in community meetings and activities
- Participate in special projects, and assist with additional duties or tasks, as assigned
- Maintain all client information as confidential in compliance with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) and the California Lanterman Act
Benefits
- Medical and Dental benefits with a generous employer contribution
- Additional employer paid Life, Disability and Vision coverage
- 10% employer contribution to a 403(b) retirement account
- 13 vacation days
- 15 sick days
- 11 paid holidays
- 6 personal holidays
- Up to 5 paid days for continuing education
