Bronx Forensic Social Worker: Mitigation & Court Advocacy

The Legal Aid Society; New York (NY); On-site; USD 84,000 - 126,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid vacation

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Job summary

The Legal Aid Society in New York’s Bronx office seeks a Forensic Social Worker to perform client interviews and develop mitigation packages for court advocacy. You will work with the Criminal Defense attorney and interdisciplinary team to highlight mitigating factors such as mental illness, trauma, and poverty histories.

You will present recommendations to stakeholders, expedite access to treatment, and support alternatives to detention or lesser sentences as part of a coordinated defense

Qualifications

• MSW degree and NYS license in social work preferred, or the ability to obtain LMSW within 6 months of hire.
• Strong diagnostic skills with a background in mental health, substance use, trauma, and related needs.
• Ability to interface with Judges, District Attorneys and Correctional Personnel.

Responsibilities

• Interview the client and conduct a thorough bio-psycho-social assessment.
• Interview collateral sources including family, friends, teachers, and social workers.
• Review and analyze life history records to document arguments for reports.
• Develop casework and sentencing advocacy plans with attorneys.
• Assess readiness for treatment and refer to appropriate services (substance use, mental health, shelters).
• Other duties as assigned by supervisors.

Skills

Strong diagnostic skills

Judicial interface

Negotiation with treatment centers

Persuasive writing

Written and oral communication

Organizational skills

Team player

Education

MSW degree

NY license eligibility (LMSW/LCSW) within 6 months

Tools

Microsoft 365

Job description

The Legal Aid Society in New York’s Bronx office seeks a Forensic Social Worker to perform client interviews and develop mitigation packages for court advocacy. You will work with the Criminal Defense attorney and interdisciplinary team to highlight mitigating factors such as mental illness, trauma, and poverty histories.

You will present recommendations to stakeholders, expedite access to treatment, and support alternatives to detention or lesser sentences as part of a coordinated defense