Criminal Court Social Worker

Role and Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Criminal Court panel members/ investigators on an interdisciplinary team to coordinate services for ongoing court matters. 
• Implement trauma informed care principles into holistic service delivery model in conjunction with program leadership team that impacts trauma informed service delivery to clients. 
• Maintain frequent and consistent communication with supporting documentation with the referring attorney to discuss case progress, client engagement and strategic legal plans.
• Facilitate referrals to appropriate services to support client compliance with court that promote optimal outcomes.
• Assist clients in accessing mental health and substance abuse treatment, housing, transportation and other critical services that may arise to successfully affect the disposition of court case. 
• Obtain client release forms to access information from service providers on behalf of the client and the attorney. 
• Prepare monthly attorney reports, document client progress, maintain best practices to promote client engagement. 
• Respond to emergency situations/ crisis by conducting rapid risk assessments and developing safety plans to ensure client wellbeing. 
• Complete comprehensive intake with client to identify needs and barriers to court obligations.
• Enroll clients in public benefits/ resources to increase income.
• Facilitate communication between client and attorney.
• Maintains an appropriately high caseload to ensure effective facilitation of appropriate services and referrals to places, which not only ensures best outcomes for clients, but complies with court expectations.
• Performs intake and assesses outcomes with referring attorney. 
• Provides written reports to attorneys and court staff where directed
• Refers clients to appropriate agencies based on client/court need.
• Communicates with other providers when directed to tract client progress 
• Maintains weekly case notes and tracks of the number of services performed during the week with clients through an electronic platform.
• Reports to their Supervisor once a week for guidance
• Remains HIPAA compliant with client documentation.
• Abides by the NASW Code of Ethics
• Performs other duties requested by Supervisor or Program Director. 

Qualifications and Education Requirements

An applicant must be a Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW). At least 3-5 years’ experience with the courts system and/or the criminal justice system. Internships and volunteer work will be considered as experience for the court system and/ or the criminal justice system. Familiarity and connection with Erie County community resources is desirable. Possession of a valid New York State Driver’s License.

PREFERRED SKILLS

• Advanced skills in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Outlook. 
• Excellent Communication and writing skills. 
• Positive attitude.
• Knowledge of local resources for clients for mental health, housing, clothing, financial planning, jobs, and many other needs. 
• Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply. 

Additional Notes

• This position will not fulfill clinical hours to obtain a clinical social work license.
• The agency will cover the cost for all CEUs for the social worker’s license to be maintained.
• This is not a county position but is a non-profit position.
• This agency offers competitive pay and excellent benefits.
• We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.