Forensic social worker job description

10% employer contribution to a 403(b) retirement account to help you save for the future!

GENEROUS TIME OFF BENEFITS!!!

No really, we mean generous:

13 vacation days, 15 sick days, 10 paid holidays, 4 personal holidays, 3 winter holidays, and up to 5 paid days for continuing education

What makes GGRC so special?

GGRC values diversity, we believe in creating an environment where people of all backgrounds can collaborate to find solutions to complex problems. We are community minded and passionate.

GGRC values each person as a full, robust, and unique individual and interacts with each person in a manner that is respectful and responsive. We endeavor to place each person at the center of his, her or their own life. We approach each person as an expert on his, her or their own life and identity with a clear and attentive inquiry into what is important to, as well as important for, that one person (whether coworker or person-served, family member or other stakeholder).

What You’ll Do:

This position works with individuals supported who are incarnated in local jails in all three counties to provide assistance in legal matters which may involve court appearances, assessments, court reports, recommendations for conservatorships, 6500 petitions, and other related reports which may be requested from the legal system. This position also acts as an internal resource to other social workers and staff within the agency. Candidates must have access to reliable transportation permitting travel to and between many different locations throughout the day in order to perform the outlined responsibilities of the position.

Manage limited caseload of individuals currently in county jail, as well as a caseload of court ordered eligibility assessments. Work with social workers to problem solve cases with the intent of reaching outcomes for clients and partner with social workers in court related cases; serve as lead in court appearances as needed. Educate and inform clients and families regarding what to expect in court. Manage court assessments and cases and keep clients informed throughout process. Manage deadlines for court dates and ensure that all paperwork is processed and handled in a timely manner. Coordinate and organize all paperwork associated with court cases and reports. Write reports with detailed and accurate information. Advocate for client/family to reach a reduced court time, lesser sentence, placement in specific programs etc.

Act as the Agency’s hearing office for eligibility and denial of service appeal hearings in front of Administrative Law Judges. Prepare exhibits and documentation to support facts in dispute. Meet with social workers, supervisors, managers and other staff to ascertain facts in case and support decisions made. Consult with the Director, Regional Center Services and outside attorney on strategies for representing the agency.

Serve as a resource for the Agency of specialized knowledge and skill in the area of forensics and keep up-to-date with new policies and laws that impact forensics. Develop and conduct training internally for new and existing social workers on due process, conservatorships and mandated reporting. Educate on the Legal System and the basics of court proceedings and as necessary bring in outside experts to share information and educate on the legal system and the basics of criminal court. Conduct and further develop existing training material for court officials to build positive relationships between the legal and regional center systems.

Develop relationships with judges and court officials and a network of expertise within the legal community to have access to information not easily accessible and collaborate with attorneys regarding cases; gather information and seek legal advice. . Educate community and individuals within the legal system regarding the Regional Center’s mandates and responsibilities.

Participate in staff and other internal meetings and task forces as assigned and in community meetings and activities as required. Participate in special projects, and assist with additional duties or tasks, as assigned. Maintain all client information as confidential in compliance with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) and the California Lanterman Act.

Developmental Center Liaison - Complete 6,500 petitions and submit to District Attorney; participate in court hearings as needed. Attend all meetings with the DC staff. Participate in transition activities resulting in moves to the community. Secure appropriate housing in the community for DC residents. Secure all benefits and support services prior to move. Provide case management services for the individual for one year post move.

Who You Are:

You have/can;

• Knowledge of judicial issues such as those pertaining to conservatorships, 6500 petitions, and Penal Code Sections 1369 and 1001.22
• Ability to be able to convey complex information and ideas in a clear, concise words
• Ability to write with legal terms, do accurate report writing, and develop standard business communications, using proper grammar, spelling and punctuation
• Ability to operate basic office equipment
• Basic familiarity with MS Word®, MS Excel®, MS PowerPoint®, MS Outlook® or similar software applications
• Work experience with developmentally disabled with case management experience desired
• Experience in multi-cultural settings and/or multi-lingual capacity

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice or related human services field (Graduate degree preferred)
• Prior professional experience in the criminal legal system

How to Apply:

GGRC values diversity; people of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Please complete the application and submit your most recent resume. If you feel that the questions do not accurately capture what you have to offer Golden Gate Regional Center, you are also welcomed to attach a cover letter. Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis so we encourage you to submit yours soon. We look forward to reading your application.

Employees are required to have the Covid-19 vaccine unless they have a religious or medical exemption.

Golden Gate Regional Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

San Francisco Applicants: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.