Legal Advocate

Position Summary:

The Legal Advocate is charged with the task of providing direct services for victims of domestic violence, in particular with assisting victims of domestic violence through legal system advocacy and follow-up.

Work Schedule: Mon - Fri 8:30am - 4:30pm. Some evenings/weekends/holidays for on-call as needed.

What's in it for you?

What your day might look like:

• Provide ongoing services to individuals needing assistance in Criminal Court, Integrated Domestic Violence Court, and Family Court 
• Provide on-going services to victims of domestic violence including, but not limited to,  supportive counseling, transportation, advocacy, safety planning, safe housing, child care, assistance filing court petitions as well as compensation claims with the Office of Victim Services, and follow-up to clients as deemed appropriate 
• Update, maintain, and complete program records on the schedule set forth by the Assistant Program Director/Program Director 
• Adhere to programmatic requirements  regarding safeguarding client confidentiality and maintaining appropriate professional boundaries 
• Participate in back-up coverage to volunteers on the hotline during non-business hours 
• Provide outreach to the community and participate in community events 
• Communicate agency philosophy about domestic violence 
• Participate in agency initiatives, trainings, and staff meetings as required 
• Additional duties as assigned 

Your Skills & qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in related field preferred  
• Experience in/knowledge of Domestic Violence program/support services preferred 
• Valid NYS driver’s license acceptable to BHSN insurance carrier required 
• Reliable transportation for travel required 
• Ability to work independently, lift up to 50 lbs., and climb stairs, kneel, bend, and squat  repetitively while performing various duties
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 
• Capable of working a flexible schedule to accommodate the needs of a 24-hour service 

EEO Statement: BHSN is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and supports Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in its hiring and employment practices, so that every team member can feel like they belong and be their authentic self to thrive in their personal and professional lives. In order to do that, all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race (including traits historically associated with race, including but not limited to, hair texture and protective hair styles), creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, military status, sex, disability, genetic predisposition or carrier status, marital status, arrest record or status as a victim of domestic violence, familial status, gender/gender expression, reproductive health decisions, citizenship or immigration status or any other factor prohibited by law.