Victim/Witness Coordinator- Major Trials Unit

Summary of Job

The Victim/Witness Coordinator assigned to the Major Trials Unit provides direct, specialized support to victims and witnesses involved in serious and violent felony cases, including robbery, burglary, gun possession, shootings, aggravated assault, and other serious crimes. This position requires a high level of professionalism, empathy, and resilience, with a strong emphasis on court accompaniment, trauma-informed advocacy, and culturally responsive engagement.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide individualized support and court accompaniments to victims and witnesses throughout all stages of the trial process, including preliminary hearings, trials, and sentencing.
• Deliver trauma-informed and culturally competent advocacy, ensuring that all victims—especially those impacted by serious or violent crimes—receive services that are respectful, inclusive, and responsive to their needs.
• Inform victims about their legal rights under the Crime Victims Act, Juvenile Act, Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Court Procedure, and the Victims’ Bill of Rights.
• Maintain consistent communication with victims regarding case status, plea offers, hearings, and sentencing updates via phone, letter, or in-person meetings.
• Support prosecutors by preparing victims and witnesses for courtroom testimony, explaining courtroom procedures, addressing fears, and reinforcing available emotional and practical supports.
• Aid victims with victim compensation, restitution, and witness fee reimbursement; coordinate transportation, interpretation services, and referrals to community-based programs as needed.
• Facilitate communication between victims, prosecutors, law enforcement, and other criminal justice partners to ensure coordinated, accurate, and compassionate case management.
• Respond promptly to concerns of victim intimidation or harassment, coordinating protective measures as appropriate.
• Provide crisis intervention, safety planning, and referrals for counseling, advocacy, or other specialized victim support services.
• Absorb victims in preparing victim impact statements and exercising their right to be heard during key court proceedings.
• Participate in case meetings, multidisciplinary collaborations, and ongoing professional training to strengthen advocacy skills and maintain best practices in trauma-informed care.
• Ensure all services are documented accurately in compliance with PCCD Victim Service Program Standards and office policy.

Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 2–3 years of experience working directly with victims of serious or violent crimes, preferably within the criminal justice or victim services field.
• Demonstrated ability to apply trauma-informed care and cultural humility in providing direct services.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and crisis-intervention skills.
• Prominent ability to maintain professionalism and empathy in emotionally charged and high-pressure environments.
• Knowledge of victim rights, courtroom procedures, and the dynamics of trauma and victimization.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software.
• Bilingual skills (especially Spanish or other commonly spoken languages in Philadelphia) preferred.

Rewards & Benefits

• This is an exempt employee with the City of Philadelphia.
• Immediately upon assuming office, the new hire will receive benefits similar to those of other City of Philadelphia employees, including the below benefits:
• Generous retirement savings options available (pension plan, etc.).
• We are a Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program-qualified employer.
• Offer comprehensive health coverage (medical, vision, prescription, and dental) for employees and their eligible dependents.
• Annual paid time off (PTO) package: 10 vacation days, 15 sick leave days, 11 paid holidays, 5 annual administrative leave.
• Wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan.
• Before tax commuter program.
• Health care and Dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• Sick leave bonuses and exchanges.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).