CLASSIFICATION TITLE:

　　Public Defender Social Worker

　　SALARY:

　　$62,135.41 - $80,366.95

　　DEPARTMENT:

　　Public Defenders Office

　　Closing Date:

　　02/06/2024 12:00 a.m.

　　FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt - overtime pursuant to Human Resources and Labor Relations Policy

　　EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIP: Just cause subject to probationary period

　　GENERAL SUMMARY:

　　Under supervision of the Public Defender, this position provides a holistic approach to social work for clients in the legal system. This includes assessing social, emotional, and practical needs like substance abuse, mental health, housing, and employment. Responsible for collaborating with legal counsel, connecting clients with vital community resources for treatment, support, and opportunity while guiding clients through the legal process and maintaining detailed case records to track progress and goals.

　　ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

　　Conducts client interviews and assessments, including meeting clients who may be incarcerated.

　　Partners with clients, providing counseling, education, support and advocacy.

　　Obtains and verifies background information.

　　Gathers mitigating information through diverse sources, including interviews, healthcare providers, employers, and record reviews.

　　Collaborates with defense teams to develop evidence-based advocacy for reduced sentences or alternative options.

　　Maintains case files and manages a diverse caseload.

　　Drafts advocacy documents to secure the best possible outcomes for clients.

　　Establishes and maintains relationships with community agencies and referral partners.

　　Guides clients by navigating the criminal justice system and securing appropriate referrals for assessment, treatment, housing, employment, and other critical support services.

　　Mentors and supports social worker interns, fellows, and externs, providing comprehensive training and promoting self-care resources.

　　Operates an automobile to perform assigned job functions.

　　Performs related duties as assigned.

　　QUALIFICATIONS:

　　Required Education and Experience:

　　Bachelor's degree in Social Work (Limited Licensed Bachelor's Social Worker [LLBSW] or Licensed Bachelor's Social Worker [LBSW]) from an accredited college or universityOne (1) year providing social worker services to clientsPreferred Education and Experience:

　　Master's degree in Social Work from an accredited college or universityPrevious social work experience with individuals involved in the criminal justice systemExperience with the mental health systemRequired Licenses or Certifications:

　　Licensed by the Michigan Board of Social Work to practice as a Social WorkerPossession of a valid Michigan driver's license and operable, insured automobile for authorized travelCOMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE OF JOB DUTIES:

　　Knowledge of:

　　Social work principles and practicesConstitutional rights of clientsHIPAA and other related laws and County policiesSkill in:

　　Prioritization and organizationWord, Excel, Google productsPerforming data entry in a multiple software applicationsBuilding and maintaining interpersonal relationshipsAbility to:

　　Present complex information with clarity and inclusivity

　　Build and maintain relationships with a diverse population

　　Work in an environment which embraces the county's Dignity Campaign

　　Effectively