Client AdvocatePrint ( AdvocateSalary$57,958.26 - $75,342.80 AnnuallyLocationTn, TNJob TypeFull-Time Non Civil ServiceJob NumberPD06315DepartmentPublic DefenderOpening Date10/08/2024DescriptionBenefitsQuestionsPosition DescriptionThe Metropolitan Public Defender’s Office represents adults accused of crimes in Davidson County who cannot afford to hire a lawyer, and children in Davidson County charged with being delinquent and unable to hire a lawyer. Cases range from the simplest misdemeanor to complex capital murder cases. Our mission is to defend the liberty, honor and constitutional rights of the individuals, of all ages, whose cases have been entrusted to us. Through zealous advocacy, we strive not only to deliver excellence in our representation of each and every client, but also to stand with our clients and the community in working to create a more just, fair and compassionate legal system. The guiding principle of the Office is that each client is entitled to quality representation that recognizes the client's dignity and achieves the best possible outcome for the case. Our attorneys, investigators, client advocates, social workers and legal assistants take great pride in providing a high level of service.This is a Non-Civil service announcement. Social Worker Seniors serve as Client Advocates on the Client Services and Mitigation team. They work to support our mission and assist clients with access to resources and treatment as well as provide support to the defense team in development of release plans and mitigation. This is a writing intensive position. We are seeking candidates who have a passion for social justice and specifically for the issues surrounding indigent defense and the criminal justice system. Candidates are strongly encouraged to learn more about our organization online before applying: DutiesMajor Job ResponsibilitiesConsultation with attorneys regarding potential mental illness, substance use disorder, and/or intellectual and developmental issues of clients:Identify client’s challenges and barriers to receiving servicesAssist in discerning the need for forensic evaluationsBuild trust with client using empathy, active listening, and a client centered approachWork with attorneys by utilizing education on social service processes and strategic mitigationInterview clients and document their historyProvide re-entry documentationFacilitation of treatment admissions and service brokerage:Identify appropriate treatment options (mental health, substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, etc.)Facilitate and troubleshoot through the application and admission processRequest and review medical recordsEmergency assistance:Assist clients in crisisAssist clients in need of necessities (food, clothing, shelter, transportation, etc.)Provide regular visitation and support to clients’ experiencing long-term incarceration pending disposition of the caseEmphasize cultural competence when interacting with clients that identify as: people of color, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, people experiencing mental illness, addiction, and homelessness, etc.Defense team support and consultation on major felony casesTestify in courtDevelop strong collaborations with community-based agencies, organizations, and universitiesAccurate record keeping:Document work with clientsWriting reportsAttend trainings and continuing education as neededMinimum QualificationsBachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in psychology, social work, sociology, or a related degree, ANDTwo (2) years or more experience working in a social services agency, working with marginalized communities, or working in the criminal justice systemMaster’s Degree in counseling, psychology, social work, sociology, or a related discipline preferred, ANDOne (1) year experience working in a social services agency, working with marginalized communities, or working in the criminal justice systemPreferred Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesCandidates with accreditations earned in a foreign institute are encouraged to apply.Note: Per Metro Ordinance No.SO94-1078. All employees of the Metropolitan Government shall be residents of the State of Tennessee or become residents of the state within six (6) months of employment as a prerequisite to employment with the Metropolitan Government.We are an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at all levels. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.Metro Nashville Government respects the religious beliefs and practices of all employees and will make, on request, an accommodation for such observances when a reasonable accommodation is available that does not create an undue hardship on business operations.Requests for ADA accommodation for the recruitment process should be directed to Courtney Bonner at 615-862-5565 or offers a generous core benefit package to eligible employees who are regularly and consistently working 20 or more hours per week. Insurance and benefit coverage is effective the first of the month after the employee has worked 30 days. Employees can change their benefits within 60 days of an eligible change in status or during Annual Enrollment. Metro also offers optional benefits from which the employee may choose. Family members, including eligible spouses, domestic partners and children, are covered under most of our benefits programs.CORE BENEFITSMedical: Choice of two plans; Metro pays 75% of premiumDental: Choice of two plans; Metro pays for single coverageBasic Life: $50,000 basic term life coverage; Metro pays 100% of premiumPension: Formula-driven pension; 100% Metro funded; 10 year vesting for new employeesPaid Family Leave: Runs concurrently with time designated as FMLA leave (up to 30 days)Longevity: Annual bonus beginning after 5 years of service; increases annually up to 20 yearsWork Life/ Employee Assistance Program: Wide variety of counseling, referral and consultation services provided freeOther*: In-line-of-duty injury benefits, AD&D insurance, and Medical Disability eligibility after 10 years with MetroPaid leave: (Full-time employees)Vacation: 10 vacation days a year; increasing after 5 years of service (For Non Civil Service departments, contact the department's human resources office)Holidays: 12 holidays per year (For Non Civil Service departments, contact the department's human resources office)Sick leave: 12 days of sick leave per yearOther leaves: Judicial leave, military leave, bereavement leave*See the Human Resources webpage for more details and optional benefits at nashville.gov/hr01Indicate the highest level of education you have completed.High School Diploma or EquivalentAssociate's DegreeBachelor's DegreeMaster's Degree02How many years of professional experience do you have in a Client Advocate or Social Work setting?No ExperienceLess than 1 year1-2 years3-4 years5 or more years03Are you fluent with Spanish and English, in both written and spoken word?YesNo04Do you have a background or experience in Journalism?YesNoRequired QuestionAgencyMetropolitan Government of Nashville & Davidson CountyAddressHuman Resources Department 700 President Ronald Reagan Way, Suite 201 Nashville, Tennessee, 37210Phone(615) 862-6640Website verify your email address Verify Email