The Position:
Co-located within the Public Defender’s Office, the Holistic Defense Advocate is part of a collaborative team working to provide high quality holistic representation to indigent adult clients accused of crimes in South Santa Barbara County. Through legal representation from public defender attorneys and targeted, comprehensive social work interventions from Holistic Defense Advocates, the program addresses life circumstances that lead to contact with the criminal justice system. The Holistic Defense team aims to stabilize lives, reduce recidivism, and create safer communities. An integral part of the defense team, the Holistic Defense Advocate conducts psychosocial assessments, provides mitigation reports, and makes referrals to treatment programs and social service providers. This pilot is a partnership between Family Service Agency, a nonprofit organization, and the Santa Barbara County Public Defender’s Office. The position reports to the Family Service Agency Operations Director.
Employment Standards:
1. MSW or MA in a related field required; 2+ years post graduate MSW preferred.
2. Bilingual Spanish/English preferred.
3. One year minimum advocating for adults involved in the criminal justice system, who often have histories of trauma, substance abuse related concerns, and mental health diagnoses.
4. Case management and / or experience working within complex societal systems (i.e. criminal justice, social services, medical, education).
5. Knowledge of issues related to criminal justice involvement for poor and under-served populations.
6. Demonstrated multicultural competency.
7. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.
8. Excellent organizational and time management skills.
9. Strong written and oral advocacy skills.
10. Computer and Internet literacy; excellent verbal and written communication skills.
11. Valid automobile insurance and a valid California Driver License.
12. Reliable transportation is necessary to travel throughout Santa Barbara County.
Classification, Hours and Pay Rate:
• Position is full-time, non-exempt, with benefits
• Pay rate dependent on experience
Please send cover letter of interest and resumes to:
Attention: HR
Family Service Agency
123 West Gutierrez St.
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Fax: 805-965-2178
[email protected]
EOE