Victim/Witness Liaison Jobs

Under immediate supervision, provides direct services to crime victims/witnesses; provides information, notification, and assistance to victims/witnesses regarding rights and benefits under the State Victims of Crime Act; acts as liaison between victims, witnesses, the county attorneys office, the court system, Polk County Victim Services, law enforcement, and other parties involved with the case.

• Attends regular staff meetings with Polk County Victim Services staff to review cases; may attend hearings/trials upon request of attorneys and/or victims.
• Compiles and maintains statistical data; prepares and maintains records, reports, and case files; inputs data into the computer system.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Refers victims to Polk County Victim Services and other community resources and agencies and acts as liaison between victims, witnesses, the County Attorney's Office, the court system, Polk County Victim Services, law enforcement, and other parties involved with the case.
• Initiates and maintains ongoing contact with victims, witnesses, and families to provide information on the status of their case; orients victims/witnesses to their rights and protections under the Iowa Victims of Crimes Act/Domestic Abuse Statues and to the criminal/civil justice system; provides support to the victim through the court process; provides notification of and schedules trials, hearings, and dispositions; assists victims in completing Victim Impact Statement for sentencing hearings; provides notice of and assists in processing applications for benefits available under the State Crime Victim Compensation Program.
• Interviews witnesses and/or victims for factual information; prepares documentation for case files; coordinates witnesses ensuring availability for trials, hearings, and depositions; reassures and persuades reluctant victims/witnesses to ensure continued involvement in the case; provides court preparation/assistance related to court proceedings, filing of protective orders, and scheduling of hearings; arranges for transportation/lodging as appropriate; may testify during court procedures.
• Completes applicable forms, letters, brochures, etc. to notify witnesses of the status of scheduled trials, hearings, or depositions.
• Schedules and coordinates meetings between the offender and victim under the Victim Offender Reconciliation Program (VORP).

• Ability to deal sensitively with victims of violent crime, sexual assault, domestic violence, and other indictable felonies/misdemeanors.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to interpret, explain, and present pertinent information involving court proceedings and program services.
• Ability to use persuasion and diplomacy in soliciting cooperation from reluctant victims/witnesses.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Knowledge of legal procedures and the court system.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with law enforcement personnel and representatives from community social service agencies.
• Ability to interview and develop rapport with victims of crimes/witnesses for court.
• Ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse cultures and socio-economic status.
• Knowledge of available community/human services resources.
• Skill in the use of a personal computer and software applications including word-processing, spreadsheets, and case management software.
• Good listening skills.
• Ability to maintain composure and provide assistance under stressful circumstances.
• Knowledge of the special needs, problems, and concerns of crime victims/witnesses.
• Knowledge of victims rights issues/legislation effecting victims, victim rights, and programs.
• Ability to prepare and maintain accurate statistical/narrative reports, records, and correspondence.

• One year experience in the criminal justice system, court administration, social services, or related field, or
• Graduation from high school plus two years college or university training in Human Services, Criminal Justice, or related field, and
• Any equivalent combination of training and experience that will have provided the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

• A drug screen is required prior to final offer of employment.
• A criminal background check is required.