Director of Legal Advocacy Services

Description

POSITION SUMMARY: The Director of Legal Advocacy Services will lead and enhance comprehensive legal outreach initiatives for survivors of domestic/intimate partner violence in Planning District Ten. This leadership role is responsible for developing strategic partnerships, driving impactful advocacy programs, and ensuring the effective delivery of legal support services. The Director will oversee a multidisciplinary team that provides legal advocacy services and case management support to survivors as well as trains regional law enforcement agencies in evidence-based interventions to assess risk of lethality in situations of domestic/intimate partner violence. This position requires a deep commitment to supporting survivors, fostering collaboration among agencies, and leadership and decision making that is trauma informed and data driven.

Job Duties

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

A. Strategic Leadership and Program Management (approximately 33% of time)
● With the Executive Director, develop policies relevant to the organization’s provision of legal advocacy services.
● Codify the procedures and practices of the Legal Advocacy program.
● Develop and implement strategic legal outreach initiatives across Planning District Ten to maximize the impact of services provided to victims of domestic/intimate partner violence.
● Lead a multidisciplinary team ensuring high-quality service delivery while supporting their professional development and performance.
● Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with local service agencies, justice system personnel, and community organizations to enhance service access and efficacy.
● Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness and budgets, making data-driven adjustments to improve service delivery and client outcomes.

B. Client Advocacy and Outreach: (approximately 33% of time)
● Oversee the provision of legal information and support to victims, ensuring they understand their legal options and receive appropriate guidance.
● Advocate for survivors in court settings, providing accompaniment and explanations of court proceedings while ensuring their rights and needs are prioritized.
● Act as a primary liaison with community partners and stakeholders, facilitating access to ancillary services (e.g., transportation, childcare) to support clients’ holistic needs.
● Attend weekly Client Services Team meetings.

C. Partnerships and Training (approximately 20% of time)
● Chair the regional Domestic Violence Task Force to build and sustain productive community partnerships.
● Co-Chair the regional Domestic Violence Fatality Review Team to identify and address systemic issues and enhance collaborative responses to domestic violence.
● Participate in quarterly Regional LAP meetings.
● Facilitate ongoing training and professional development opportunities for staff and volunteers to enhance their skills and effectiveness in serving survivors of domestic/intimate partner violence.

D. Data Management and Evaluation: (approximately 14% of time)
● Collect, analyze, and report on statistical data regarding service delivery, ensuring that insights are used to inform program development and stakeholder reporting.
● Collaborate with the Client Services Team to evaluate program goals and outcomes, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.

Skills Required

This role requires a proactive leader with a strong commitment to social justice and trauma informed care, exceptional interpersonal skills, and the ability to navigate complex systems in support of victims of domestic/intimate partner violence. Exceptional candidates will have proven experience building and leading teams that deliver services to humans in crisis; proven experience in database management; and will be fluent in Spanish and English.

Work Schedule

40 hours per week between the hours of 7am and 6pm Monday-Friday

Additional Info

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: This role requires one week of 24/7 on-call service approximately once every six weeks that is compensated at $150 per on-call week (in addition to the regular salary). This role also requires the willingness to transport clients either via your personal vehicle or a taxi or ride-sharing service. Mileage or cost reimbursement for all travel is provided. Additionally, all Shelter for Help in Emergency Staff are required to pass the organization’s Suitability to Work with Minors Policy which requires fingerprinting and criminal background checks.

LOCATION: Onsite at Outreach Center (1415 Sachem Place, Charlottesville VA, 22901) with travel to courts in Planning District Ten (City of Charlottesville and the Counties of Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, and Nelson)

TO APPLY: Please send resume and cover letter to careers@shelterforhelpinemergency.org by October 17, 2024. This position will remain open until filled. EOE