Pre-trial Probation Officer
Incumbent serves as a Pretrial Services Case Manager for Jefferson County Circuit and Superior Courts, responsible for supervising and reporting status of participants released from jail under pretrial conditions and investigating social and criminal histories in order to prepare initial assessments for Court Services. Incumbent directly reports to the Pretrial Services Director.
DUTIES:
Pretrial Arraignment Screening:
The PTS CM will conduct interviews and investigations on all persons arrested on bailable offenses within 24 hours of arrest and will be given release authority as described in policy based upon the results of the screening process.
Assessment Duties:
The PTS CM will be responsible for assessing people arrested of a criminal offense within 24 hours of the arrest according to policy. The PTS CM is responsible for preparing reports with assessment information to the Courts, Defense and Prosecutor before the initial hearing. The PTS CM will assist the Prosecutor’s office with identifying appropriate candidates for Drug Court and possible diversions. The PTS CM will be present at initial hearings to assist the Courts and defendants through the pretrial process. The PTS CM will be responsible for giving information to parties to assist with the management of the jail population including knowing who is in jail and why they are being held.
Case Management duties:
The PTS CM will supervise those individuals placed on pretrial services in accordance to the Differential Pretrial Supervision policy. This may include making referrals to appropriate programs as needed and monitoring progress. The PTS CM may provide individual counseling as needed, provide education, orientation and monitoring groups of various types. The PTS CM will inform the prosecutor’s office and Court of violations and file necessary paperwork if needed for violations along with testifying in Court as required and attending relevant hearings
The PTS CM may contain a pretrial caseload for adult offenders; interviews offender and prepares reports and recommendations for the Court, supervises offender, regular office contact; monitor regular urinalysis testing and administer alcohol breath tests; monitor fee collection, payments of restitution, and community service; keep accurate case notes and paperwork; assists victims, attend relevant hearings, and perform related duties as needed; follow program procedure for case closure upon participant’s completion of the program or unsuccessful termination from the program.
The PTS CM must perform Evidence-Based Competencies throughout case management tasks. This includes but is not limited to: Redirecting anti-social attitudes/beliefs and affirming pro-social attitudes and beliefs, teaching problem-solving skills, using appointments to enhance skill building, use of incentives and sanctions, use of thinking reports and cognitive restructuring, use of Motivational Interviewing skills and use of effective communication skills.
The PTS CM shall maintain office computer, laptop, and paper files, including summaries of intake interviews, treatment, group and or education information if necessary; review all paperwork completed by the participant to verify accuracy of information; prepares reports and recommendations required by the Court and the department.
The PTS CM shall maintain equipment issued to him/her, i.e. Department issued clothing, vest, weapons, Breathalyzers, vehicles and any other equipment the officer might be required to use to perform assigned duties. The Case Manager will return all equipment upon leaving the department.
The PTS CM shall attend training seminars, professional development workshops, training, and education as required or needed to maintain certifications and remain current in new developments in the field.
Responds to emergency calls on 24-hour basis
Performs related duties as assigned and/or required by law.
Training duties:
The PTS CM will ensure that he/she has all of the necessary training/education needed to perform his/her job duties to the best of his/her ability. The PTS CM shall be well informed about new trends, new programs, and research the Pretrial Reform field. Each year, the PTS CM will complete a Staff Development and Training plan with the Court Services Director for that year to address any training issues or interest for the employee. The PTS CM will complete at least 35 hours of continuing education each year as directed by Court Services policy.
Community relation duties:
The PTS CM will develop and maintain positive and supportive relationships to key players in the community. This would include but is not limited to: staff, Judges and Staff, Court Services, Prosecutor’s Office, departments within the Courthouse; the Defense Bar; Treatment/Service providers; Law Enforcement Agencies; Employment Agencies; Welfare Department; schools; members from other departments and agencies, as well as the general public. This contact is necessary for wide variety of purposes, including but not limited to resolving problems, the gathering information, preparing reports and coordinating/negotiating services.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
The Pretrial Case Manager shall meet all qualifications established by the Office of Court Services. In addition, the PTS CM shall have the following qualifications:
· Bachelor degree from a college or university accredited by an accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation
· Be at least 21 years of age
· Be an American Citizen
· Be a person of good moral character
· Five (5) years of experience working in the community supervision or a related field.
· Must have training and experience in leadership development and demonstrate leadership qualities and determination
· In addition, incumbent must have a working knowledge of standard computer software programs, applications and the county’s computer system. Ability to operate standard office equipment, such as Copier, FAX Machine, DVD, Computer and other necessary equipment.
· Ability to effectively interview, investigate, lead group sessions and work with clients to assure proper completion of all program requirements.
· Must have experience and knowledge in Evidence-Based Practices for community supervision; cognitive-behavioral interventions; and a clear understanding of addictions and other mental health conditions
· Ability to effectively resolve emergency/crisis situations and take appropriate action as required.
· Complete knowledge of all local, state, and federal laws applicable to community corrections, with ability to
apply and enforce regulations as needed.
· Complete knowledge of standard policies and practices of Jefferson County legal process, Court Services Policy and Procedures and to follow these policies, procedures and rules.
· Thorough knowledge of treatment programs and services available to clients from other government, social, and private agencies.
· Ability to effectively work with clients and cooperate and communicate with department employees, personnel and officials from a wide variety of government departments and social agencies, and members of general public. All communication with participants, other staff and agencies shall be carried out in a courteous and professional manner.
· Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of all department records and information.
· Ability to effectively perform all essential duties of the job. To be able to access residences and work sites participants.
· Must possess a legal driver’s license.
· Ability to follow all personnel policies and rules of the organization.
· Incumbent must have extensive knowledge of the criminal justice process/proceedings, statues and court services programs. Must have the ability/knowledge to implement, monitor and measure evidence-based practice
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $41,079.00 - $75,561.00 per year
Benefits:
Dental insurance
Flexible schedule
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Professional development assistance
Retirement plan
Vision insurance
Education:
Bachelor's (Required)
Work Location: In person