***This position is time-limited, grant funded, full-time.***
**Funding for this position will end on June 30, 2025.**
The Public Defender's Office, District 29A, which consists of Henderson, Polk, and Transylvania counties, seeks a Client Advocate to assist clients and attorneys in navigating gaps in access to treatment, mediation, public benefits, and social determinate needs that are the core cause of criminal court involvement.
A Client Advocate (CA) will engage directly with court appointed defendants throughout their case, identify needs and connect them with specific services.
Duties include, but are not limited to, the following:
-Assist public defenders by providing information to aid in favorable case outcomes and attempt to reduce additional contact with the court system.
-Provide reports and updates to attorneys.
-Assist clients with identifying optimal treatment options and assist with enrollment, logistics, and related needs to enable admittance and completion.
-Assist clients with accessing health care and securing stable housing.
-Connect clients with supportive community resources.
-Interview clients (in jail custody and out of jail custody).
-Track specific output and outcome measurements through data collection per the terms of the grant.
-Develop relationships with local organizations and resources to facilitate advocacy.
-Build relationships with clients to understand and identify challenges.
-Travel throughout Henderson, Polk, and Transylvania counties.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities / Competencies
Knowledge of: criminal justice system; public and private organizations and community resources; alternative treatment and/or placement facilities both in and outside of North Carolina; and funding sources for alternative treatment and/or placement facilities.
Skills in: excellent written, strong organizational and writing skills; communication and advocacy skills; and proficiency with MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Ability to: work with a diverse population; welcome individuals with lived experience with recovery; meet high demands and deadlines often associated with advocating for the rights of consumers within the criminal justice system; develop and conduct educational seminars; and work both independently and as a part of a multi-disciplinary team.
Must have an active North Carolina Driver's license.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in social work or another human services field and one year of work experience in a human services field; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
Management prefers candidates with a Bachelor's degree in social work or another human services field and two (2) years of experience; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
Certified Peer Support Specialists and Certified Criminal Justice Addictions Professional are encouraged to apply.