Court Advocate: Survivor Support & Safety Planning

New-Hope; Westborough (MA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

New Hope is seeking a SAFEPLAN Court Advocate to support survivors in the South-Central District Courts, primarily Westborough. You will provide crisis intervention, safety planning, and navigation of the legal system to obtain protective orders.

This role requires strong collaboration with court personnel, the ability to travel to multiple court sites in the region, and commitment to empowering survivors while maintaining confidentiality and professional boundaries.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, criminal justice, or related field preferred but not required.
• Experience in advocacy or legal services may substitute for formal education.
• Prior experience in domestic violence advocacy, legal advocacy, or working in a court setting is highly preferred.
• Knowledge of Massachusetts laws related to restraining orders and harassment prevention.
• Bilingual highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide crisis assessment and intervention for survivors seeking protective orders.
• Assist clients with completing protective order applications and information on legal options.
• Screen potential clients for eligibility for SAFEPLAN services.
• Conduct comprehensive safety planning for survivors and their children.
• Accompany, support, and advocate for survivors in court during civil proceedings.
• Make referrals to appropriate follow-ups to domestic violence services and other supports.

Skills

Crisis intervention

Court advocacy

Travel flexibility

Bilingual

Empathy

Education

Bachelor’s degree preferred in social work, criminal justice, or related field

Job description

New Hope is seeking a SAFEPLAN Court Advocate to support survivors in the South-Central District Courts, primarily Westborough. You will provide crisis intervention, safety planning, and navigation of the legal system to obtain protective orders.

This role requires strong collaboration with court personnel, the ability to travel to multiple court sites in the region, and commitment to empowering survivors while maintaining confidentiality and professional boundaries.