Volunteer Courthouse Advocate

Become a Volunteer

Description:

• Assists petitioners who come to the courthouse seeking an Injunction for Protection from domestic violence by providing referrals for supportive services
•  Completes information cards, safety plans, child abuse incident reports, and any other necessary paperwork
• Assists victims in determining if they meet the criteria for filing an injunction and assists in the proper completion of the forms
• Prepares petitioners for what to expect in the courtroom and accompanies groups of petitioners to their injunction hearing
• Explains injunction orders to victims: provides literature and referrals as necessary
• Provides information regarding injunctions for protection and referrals to survivors by telephone
• Provides immediate support and crisis intervention counseling to victims filing an injunction for protection
• Advocates within the justice system as needed, for survivors of domestic violence
• Provides documentation of survivor’s information as needed by the courts (always respecting the confidentiality of the survivor)
• Is able to problem solve with survivors with appropriate feedback, both on the telephone and in person
• Uses active listening skills with appropriate self-disclosure
• Is respectful and non-judgmental in all dealings survivors
• Is able to effectively structure crisis counseling sessions
• Makes appropriate referrals

Qualifications:

• Knowledge of basic computer skills
• Knowledge of services available through Harbor House, OCCADV
• Knowledge of laws pertaining to domestic violence
• Knowledge o local resources and referrals for survivors
• Ability to work with culturally diverse groups of both genders
• Ability to interact in a professional manner with members of other agencies
• Ability to prioritize tasks and utilize resources effectively
• Ability to show caring and empathy toward survivors of domestic violence
• Ability to maintain client records according to Agency standards
• Ability to recognize signs of physical, emotional, sexual abuse and respond appropriately
• Ability to provide effective and immediate crisis intervention for survivors
• Ability to work independently with sound judgment
• Ability to be flexible in job tasks within a “team” format

Requirements:

• Volunteer application online (signed confidentiality form and volunteer agreement)
• Recognize, Respond and Refer (RRR) training register here
• Background check
• CORE-Competency training held quarterly
• Interview with Courthouse Manager
• Courthouse Orientation

Become a Volunteer