About the Department
The Public Defender's Office of the Eastern Judicial Circuit has an opening for a Forensic Social Worker. If you have a Bachelor's Degree or higher in Social Work, Forensic Science, or a related field along with at least two (2) years of experience, consider applying.
Position Duties
Under the direction of the Circuit Public Defender, you will
- Assist the Office of the Public Defender with forensic assessment, developing alternative sentencing proposals, preparing mitigating information, and connecting clients to appropriate social services.
- Interview, assess, and evaluate clients' psychological, social, and physical needs and coordinate resources, referrals, and services to meet those needs.
- Share client information with courts, agencies, and community providers as legal and appropriate and coordinate client placements.
- Review client progress and compliance with programs, monitor attendance, encourage participation and achievement of objectives, and consult with stakeholders and service providers, mental health professionals, courts, pharmacies, and others to ensure clients' stability, safety, and compliance.
- Process a variety of documentation associated with department/division operations.
- Receive and review various documentation, including medical and mental health records, police/incident reports, forensic reports, school records, and treatment reports.
- Review, complete, process, forward, or retain as appropriate.
- Communicate with clients, families, attorneys, judges and court personnel, jail staff, mental health professionals, medical professionals, social service providers and agencies, and others in the community to coordinate work activities, review work status, and exchange information or resolve problems.
- Conduct telephone interviews and field visits to placement facilities.
- Collaborate with clients, defense attorneys, and court program personnel.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Forensic Science, or a related field, and
- At least two (2) years of criminal justice or related field experience; or
- Any equivalent combination of training and experience.
- Must be knowledgeable of judicial processes, court procedures, the criminal justice system, case management and crisis intervention practices, mental health treatments and medication, and social work theories and ethics.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) or related field.
- Experience with Chatham County social services and social service entities and familiarity with the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities policies and procedures.
- Experience working with clients with addictions and mental health issues.