Director of Courthouse Programs

A SAFE PLACE

LAKE COUNTY CRISIS CENTER

Director of Courthouse Programs

The Director of Courthouse Programs is responsible for implementing and coordinating Courthouse outreach, case management, and legal services for victims of domestic violence and human trafficking. Services support the holistic needs of the survivor through completion of needs assessment via IM-CAT and or IM-CANS, safety planning, risk assessments, and developing service plans for clients filing protective orders (domestic violence and human trafficking) and related referrals. Director works collaboratively with Chief of Legal Services and Sector Partnerships to build relationships with legal community including State’s Attorney, Public Defender, and legal aid organizations. 

The ideal candidate is organized and results driven. They are always working to improve and enhance Courthouse services by building relationships, implementing A Safe Place high standards of care by completing needs assessments using IM-CAT and providing other complimentary services. Director utilizes compassion and a trauma-informed approach to provide crisis intervention, safety planning, and case management for clients involved in or preparing for court proceedings. This position reports to the Chief of Legal Services and Sector Partnerships.

A Safe Place is a recognized 501(c)3 listed under Lake County Crisis Center for the Prevention & Treatment of Domestic Violence Inc.

Position is located in Waukegan, IL and may travel to other locations as needed.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Creating a safe and supportive courthouse space for survivors as defined by A Safe Place mission, policies, and procedures. Including:
  • Identifying the program as a part of ASP and collaborative partner with the 19th Judicial Circuit.
  • Empowering and supporting staff to identify and provide resources to only victims of domestic violence and human trafficking
  • Identifying and offering complimentary resources  
• Provides and leads survivor centered services in the Courthouse including:
  • Ensuring that ASP eligibility requirements are met prior to providing any services
  • Eligibility, service plan completion, and safety planning for clients experiencing domestic violence and human trafficking. Ensuring records are completed in timely manner as defined by A Safe Place policies and procedures. 
  • Completion of all reporting requirements in Infonet and other tracking documents as required by grants. 
  • Compile and provide resources to explain court procedures, legal options, and terminology in an accessible manner, helping clients understand their rights within the legal system.
  • Client Referrals: Educates clients on services available through A Safe Place as well as outside organizations and facilitates their access to these services through referral processes.
• Responsible for department staffing including:
  • Development of a monthly schedule to carry out critical services
  • Recruitment and training of volunteers and interns
  • Recruitment and training of legal case managers in conjunction with Chief of Legal Services and Sector Partnerships. 
• Advocate on behalf of clients in court systems, State's Attorney office, Public Defender, and the Lake County Police Departments including the Sheriff and jail personnel. 
• In collaboration with Chief of Legal Services and Sector Partnerships develop, maintain, and nurture a network of collaborative relationships to include police, judges, private attorneys, State's attorneys, public defenders, court services personnel, and service providers. 
• Supports other Department Personnel: Educates interns and other staff, as well as volunteers on procedures and client needs.
• In conjunction with Chief of Legal Services and Sector Partnerships, educate Legal community on needs of survivors including educate law enforcement and court personnel on domestic violence issues, survivor needs and services, the Illinois Domestic Violence Act and Lake County protocols.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings and other trainings and meetings as required. 
• Work as a team player in the organization. 
• Perform all other duties as assigned by the Chief of Legal Services and Sector Partnerships. 

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor's degree in counseling, social work, criminal justice or related field with 3-5 years of relevant experience. High School diploma (GED) and five to seven years relevant experience in the field of domestic violence or legal services may be considered in lieu of degree. 

• Excellent leadership and organizational skills to motivate and retain volunteers and staff, to successfully manage multiple tasks and assignments; and, to maintain a safe environment for all. 

• Sensitivity to survivors and children's issues as they relate to domestic violence. 

• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills needed for network building, public speaking, documentation of statistics and client records, completing required reports and Orders of Protection; as well as communicating to professionals and residents of the community. 

• Knowledge of, and ability to effectively use counseling skills to support and empower clients.  

• Ability to accept, to understand, and to relate sensitively to people of varied socio-economic, racial, cultural, and experiential backgrounds. 

• Bilingual Spanish preferred.