Forensic Social Worker

About the role

Join our team and play a critical role in protecting individuals, families, and communities by conducting Section 35 court-ordered evaluations. This unique position focuses on evaluating individuals whose substance use may place themselves or others at serious risk.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive, court-ordered Section 35 evaluations to determine whether an individual meets the legal criteria for involuntary commitment for substance use treatment.
• Interview respondents, family members, treatment providers, police officers, and other collateral contacts to gather relevant clinical information.
• Assess substance use severity, risk of harm, mental health status, and treatment history.
• Prepare objective, timely, and well-supported forensic reports for District and Superior Courts.
• Provide expert testimony and clinical recommendations during court proceedings.
• Consult with judges, attorneys, probation officers, court personnel, hospitals, law enforcement, and behavioral health providers regarding clinical findings and treatment recommendations.
• Collaborate with section 35 treatment providers to facilitate appropriate care.
• Maintain accurate, timely documentation in accordance with legal, regulatory, and organizational standards.
• Conduct court-ordered section 12 evaluations to determine whether an individual is at substantial risk of harm to self or others due to mental illness.
• Conduct court-ordered aid in sentencing evaluations.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Social Work.
• Current Massachusetts LICSW required.
• At least 3–5 years of experience working with adults with substance use disorders, preferably with co-occurring mental health conditions.
• Experience conducting forensic, crisis, emergency, or court-related behavioral health assessments strongly preferred.
• Excellent clinical assessment, report writing, and courtroom communication skills.
• Ability to make sound clinical judgments in complex, high-stakes situations.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel locally.

Pay

PAY RANGE: $40.00 - 45.00 per hour

Hours

HOURS: 20 per week

How to Apply

If you are interested in this opportunity, please click “Apply for Job” below or visit our website at www.bhnworks.org and click on “Browse All Jobs” to apply! You can also email your resume to Elisa Auker at elisa.auker@bhninc.org.