The Capital Area Private Defender Service (“CAPDS”) is a Managed Assigned Counsel program that handles the vast majority of indigent defense cases in Travis County. CAPDS uses a holistic defense model, placing the client at the center of the representation. We use a team-based interdisciplinary approach where mitigation specialists, experts, investigators, and immigration counsel collaborate with the defense attorney to obtain the best possible and least restrictive outcomes for clients. As a part of this system, CAPDS provides social services to clients who are facing criminal charges. We are looking for an alternative disposition specialist “specialist” to join our team. The perfect candidate is someone who is organized, has strong communication skills, is a self-starter, and enjoys working as a part of a team.
The specialist will be an integral member of the defense team and work in a social work capacity. They will work closely with attorneys and clients to identify physical or mental health impairments, substance use issues, family history, and medical concerns that will help shed light on the client's life and its impact on the case. Additionally, the specialist is expected to write formal mitigation reports, conduct assessments, and compile psychosocial histories for trial, sentencing, treatment, conditions of probation, diversion, etc. The specialist should have experience working in various settings (jail, hospitals, community, courts, office) with individuals suffering from severe and persistent mental illnesses and substance use disorders. This role requires reliable transportation and a valid driver's license.
Job Duties:
Maintains an active caseload of clients; provides advocacy, mitigation, and connection to resources as appropriate with clients’ needs and goals.
Conducts client interviews, assessments, and screenings in various settings – jail, court, office, and community.
Develops, implements, and monitors case management/reentry plans, as per the needs of the client and legal case.
Collects, reviews, and provides documentation for purposes of developing bond plans, social histories, treatment plans, and connection to services.
Assists with social service referrals and coordinates placement for continuity of care.
Maintains accurate and detailed client notes and documents, in paper and digital format.
Collaborates with client, defense attorney, mitigation specialist, investigator, expert, immigration attorney, community case managers, and any other stakeholder, in addressing clients’ legal and social service needs.
Coordinates transport for clients from jail or community to appointments, treatment facilities, and other locations/services, as needed during the course of representation or for purposes of reentry.
Support the social work team with training initiatives and education efforts on best practices.
Facilitates and supports the development of community resources by identifying and bridging service gaps and barriers.
Updates and maintains a guide of community resources and contact persons for service providers.
Collaborates with community networks and providers to help clients’ seamlessly access treatment and services.
Provides written and oral communication with criminal justice stakeholders in and out of court.
Maintain and track cases as requested by the supervisor.
Attends and participates in internal and external case conferences, meetings, and trainings as required by the supervisor.
Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or a related social/behavioral science degree
Preferably have six months to one year of experience working with individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, mental health or behavioral health issues, and substance-use disorders.
Prior criminal justice experience preferred, but not required.
Prior case management, counseling, or crisis intervention experience preferred.
Comfortable handling confidential information.
Experienced and comfortable working with a variety of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.
Positive attitude, team player, ability to work independently.
Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Any combination of education and experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties and responsibilities of this role.
Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
Valid Texas State Social Work or comparable license preferred but not required.
Must have valid Texas Driver’s License and reliable transportation.
Please send resume and cover letter to [email protected] as one document with “Case Manager” in the subject line. Only electronic communications will be accepted. Please demonstrate in your cover letter that you meet the minimum qualifications. Only applicants who meet the minimum requirements will be considered. Application deadline is November 30, 2020 or until filled.