Probation Counselor

About the role

Department: Misdemeanor Probation. Reports To: Chief Probation Counselor. General Description: Supervises, tracks, monitors, records, and evaluates the progress of assigned probation clients ensuring that all assigned clients follow their terms and conditions of probation and are not involved in further crime. Searches out the needs of the clients and makes available to them the community resources that will help them meet their needs (i.e. job referrals, alcohol counseling, welfare).

Responsibilities

• Ensures that all assigned clients are following their terms and conditions of probation by going over conditions of probation with the client in an initial interview and monitoring their progress by meeting with clients on a regular basis (typically monthly) in order to track and document their progress as required.
• Outlines conditions of probation with clients to ensure they have a clear understanding of the requirements they must meet according to the court's instructions; obtains clients signature for the conditions of probation; provides clear and specific instructions regarding actions that must be taken by client prior to their next appointment.
• Gathers and verifies client intake information; interviews client to learn as much as possible about the client and to determine special conditions or needs of the client and to establish goals; refers clients to agencies, schedules appointments as needed, and provides agency with necessary information and paperwork; directs client to community service as required.
• Completes court-ordered paperwork containing pertinent information for all clients; ensures the accuracy, completeness and timeliness of the information recorded; ensures that the State Attorney’s Office receives all necessary documents.
• Close out Client’s file, ex: revoked, satisfactory and unsatisfactory after Judge signs the paperwork.
• Documents, codes, and tracks monies received from the client maintaining accurate and complete accounting records; completes the restitution and fine forms regarding the same; ensures receipt of payments and maintains acceptable collection rate range.
• Notifies the court when a client violates probation conditions; prepares warrants when necessary; completes required paperwork and submits the same to the court; provides recommendations to the court with regard to violations of probation based on the data collected and successful termination of cases.
• Document Client’s file of arrests and releases from incarceration.
• Prepares and maintains accurate and complete case notes for all client appointments; observes clients behavior and records all pertinent information about the client; outlines the procedures taken and information explained during the course of appointments.
• Issues and coordinates Notice of Hearings; initiates and completes the necessary paperwork and schedules appointment with the client in order to fully explain the procedure.
• Builds and maintains professional relationships with community agencies; prepares and distributes required paperwork and release forms to assist agencies providing services and assistance to clients; ensures all information provided is in compliance with established policies and procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Two years college from an accredited college or university in Social Work, Criminal Justice, Sociology, or a related field and two years progressively responsible experience