Victim Witness Program Assistant

About the role

The Victim Witness Program Assistant will provide a variety of administrative assistance to Victim Witness Advocates as well as direct assistance to victims and witnesses of crime occurring in the City of Lynchburg. The Program Assistant will initiate contact with victims of crimes to assess safety, provide information, and assist victims in understanding and navigating the criminal justice system. The Victim/Witness Assistance Program protects the rights of victims and witnesses of crime set forth in the Code of Virginia (19.2‑11.01) Crime victim and witness rights.

Essential Duties

• Receives warrants and police reports from legal assistants and enters victim information, tracks cases and documents services provided to victims into the Victim Services Data Collection system.
• Receives, screens and directs inquiries both by phone and in person, from victims, other service providers, attorneys, law enforcement and the general public.
• Provides direct services including contact with victims to assure victims are provided information related to court appearances and hearings, as well as informing them of changes in the time and date of those appearances and hearings.
• Assesses the victim's emotional, physical, safety and financial needs; makes referrals to community resources; provides information regarding the Virginia Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund and assists with the application process.
• Processes incoming and outgoing program mail; answers telephone inquiries related to program; maintains, organizes, and keeps up‑to‑date records and files.
• Provides court information and support to victims and/or petitioners and witnesses.
• Provides appearance information to witnesses; provides employer intercession services when requested; seeks to resolve any appearance problems to assure witness appearance in court.
• Works with victims in determining accurate restitution by compiling documentation, including estimates, medical bills, insurance documentation, etc.
• Acts as a liaison between victims, witnesses and prosecutors.
• Collaborates with social service agencies, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations to provide a coordinated community response for crime victims.
• Participates in ongoing training, classes, and courses to stay apprised of changes in laws and in the provision of direct services to victims of crime.
• Works with volunteers and student interns in a coordinated effort to provide services within the victim/witness assistance program.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in criminal justice, social work, sociology, psychology, or another closely related field.
• Previous experience working within the criminal justice system, including the civil and criminal protective order process, assisting crime victims or individuals in crisis.

Additional Requirements

• Must successfully pass a criminal background check.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement through the Virginia Retirement System (VRS); employees contribute 5% of base pay (pre‑tax) toward their VRS benefit.
• Life insurance at no cost to the employee.
• Optional benefits such as 457 deferred compensation, Roth IRA, flexible spending accounts, etc.
• Eligibility for parental leave and tuition assistance.
• Paid Time Off.
• Employees in hourly and part‑time positions may be eligible for benefits depending on the position.
• Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program for federal student loans.