Legal Advocacy Volunteer

Overview:

As a Legal Advocacy Volunteer, you will play a critical role in providing support and advocacy to clients involved in the legal system, helping them navigate the complexities of both the criminal and civil legal systems. Your responsibilities will include conducting intake interviews, informing clients about legal procedures and implications, accompanying clients to court proceedings, making appropriate referrals, providing office support, and participating in ongoing training to enhance your knowledge of domestic violence, evidence-based practices, community resources, and related topics.

Responsibilities:

Client Intake and Support:

Conduct brief intake interviews with clients through the hotline and walk-in services, ensuring a compassionate and supportive approach.

Legal Procedure Guidance:

Inform clients of the steps and potential implications of legal procedures they may choose to pursue.

Court Accompaniment:

Accompany clients to court-related proceedings, such as Protection From Abuse (PFA) court, to provide emotional support and assistance.

Referrals and Access to Services:

Make appropriate referrals to services and resources based on clients' needs, and assist clients in accessing these services when necessary.

Office Support:

Provide office-related support as requested by the Legal Clinic Director or their designee, which may include administrative tasks and document preparation.

Volunteer Activity Tracking:

Maintain records of your volunteer activities and submit monthly logs to track your contributions.

Ongoing Training and Education:

Commit to acquiring a minimum of 10 hours of ongoing training and education in the areas of domestic violence, evidence-based practices, community resources, and other relevant topics.

Qualifications:

Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Empathetic and non-judgmental attitude.

Commitment to maintaining confidentiality.

Familiarity with legal processes or willingness to learn.

Ability to work well under pressure in a legal setting.

Basic computer skills for documentation and administrative tasks.

Benefits:

Gain valuable experience in legal advocacy and support for clients in crisis.

Opportunity for personal and professional growth through ongoing training.

Contribute to empowering individuals involved in the legal system to navigate their challenges effectively.