The Office of the DeKalb County District Attorney is currently accepting resumes for 1 (one) experienced Victim Witness Advocate to work in its SB440 Unit. The Unit is responsible for investigating and trying SB440 homicides and armed robbery cases in the Stone Mountain Judicial Circuit. These cases involve juveniles charged with GA – SB440 offenses (crimes where a juvenile between the ages of 13-16 may be charged as an adult). Advocates within this unit should have experience and training in crisis intervention, trauma and safety planning and assist survivors beginning shortly after a homicide occurs.

We desire professionals with victim-centered advocacy experience, who will represent the wishes and interests of victims while working with several disciplines to achieve justice. Advocates are trained professionals who assist and/or advocate for victims of crime (in accordance with (O.C.G.A. § 17-17-1) in determining the best options in the aftermath of a crime, whether or not the victim participates in the civil or criminal justice system. Principal duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to: compliance with the Crime Victim Bill of Rights, explanation of and information about the criminal justice system, administrative duties and coordination of resources within the community on behalf of victims. Specifically, the Victim Advocate will provide resources to crime victims and families of homicide victims, collaborate with community partners, and educate the community on violence prevention involving juveniles and any other duties as directed by the Program Director.

Preferred Qualifications: The successful candidate must possess a post-graduate degree in a Social Services related field and specific experience in victim dynamics related to homicide or personal violence. The ideal candidate has prior experience working in a victim-assistance prosecutor’s office, preferably with 5-7 years of practice in advocating for, communicating with, and providing services to co-survivors and crime victims at the felony level. However, consideration will be given to candidates with strong-community based advocacy experience. Additionally, experience, either paid or volunteer, will be considered. The successful candidate must possess excellent communication skills, both oral and written; must be detail-oriented; strong organizational and interpersonal skills are a must; must be able to work well in a team environment; must have the capacity to handle stress and exposure to challenging, often graphic content; must demonstrate a strong sense of personal responsibility and leadership skills, as well as a commitment to serving the community and working with the public. Additionally, the candidate must have a proficient working knowledge of victim resources, the criminal justice system and grief support, and gang violence prevention strategies. The candidate must be flexible in their working hours.

Employment is contingent upon the completion and satisfactory results of a criminal background check.

Interested candidates should email a resume, cover letter, and references by June 16, 2023, to: Amanda Planchard, Director of Victim Services, ajplanchard@dekalbcountyga.gov.

The Stone Mountain Judicial Circuit is an equal employment opportunity employer and in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities.

Salary Range: salary and benefits will be commensurate with experience

Submit resume and cover letter to:

Email: ajplanchard@dekalbcountyga.gov