Legal Advocate – Interim (Bilingual)

Description

At A Safe Place, we believe every survivor deserves safety, justice, and the opportunity to rebuild. For over 46 years, our organization has been a beacon of hope in Lake County, empowering survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking to reclaim their lives.

Legal Advocate - Interim (Bilingual)

As the Interim Legal Advocate, you will provide compassionate, trauma-informed legal advocacy and support to survivors seeking protection through the court system. You will serve as a bridge between clients, law enforcement, and the legal community, helping survivors navigate the complex process of obtaining Orders of Protection and ensuring their voices are heard.

This interim position supports the Legal Advocacy Department through the end of 2025, providing critical continuity during a time of transition. Beginning in 2026, this position will shift to Relief Staff status, offering flexible, as-needed support to ensure consistent service delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Legal Advocacy & Case Support

• Assist victims of domestic violence in preparing and filing Orders of Protection and other related legal documents.
• Represent client interests in collaboration with the State’s Attorney’s office, local law enforcement, and court systems.
• Provide safety planning and crisis response for clients involved in legal proceedings.
• Educate clients about their rights, available services, and the court process to empower informed decisions.
  
  

Program Collaboration & Training

• Participate in community training and outreach to increase awareness of domestic violence laws and services.
• Partner with law enforcement, court personnel, and social service agencies to strengthen referral systems and coordinated response.
• Contribute to training initiatives for staff, volunteers, and community partners on legal advocacy and survivor-centered care.
  
  

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate, confidential client records and data entry in alignment with grant and agency standards.
• Complete required certifications, including IM+CANS and the 40-hour Domestic Violence Training.
• Adhere to ethical and professional standards such as the NASW Code of Ethics.
  
  

Requirements

About You:

Role

This role requires you to be at the center of both direct client advocacy and strategic coordination across the legal and social service systems. To succeed in this role, you should leverage the following:

• A deep commitment to survivor-centered, trauma-informed advocacy.
• The ability to communicate effectively with clients, courts, and law enforcement.
• Strong organizational skills and the capacity to manage multiple cases with empathy and precision.
• Cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• Emotional resilience, professionalism, and grace under pressure.
• Bilingual fluency (English/Spanish).
• Prior experience in legal advocacy, domestic violence services, or social work
  
  

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice, Psychology, or comparable field of study, and equivalent work experience.

• Completion of the 40-hour Domestic Violence Training (required; may be obtained upon hire).
  
  

Employment Details

• Classification: Interim (through December 31, 2025)
• Schedule: Full-time or part-time, 20–25 hours per week
• Transition: Converts to Relief Staff role in 2026
• Reports To: Legal Advocacy Director
  
  

Compensation: $20 - $25 hourly; based on grant funding, skills, experience, and expertise. Wages are paid bi-weekly (26 pay periods annually).

Commitment To Inclusion

A Safe Place is an equal opportunity employer that celebrates diversity and fosters an inclusive work environment.