Forensic Social Worker — Parole Revocation Defense Advocate

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

Job summary

The Legal Aid Society, the largest public-interest law firm in New York City, seeks a dedicated court-based Forensic Social Worker for the Parole Revocation Defense Unit in the Bronx. You will interview clients and collateral contacts to document life history, advocate for alternatives to detention, and assist in securing treatment and services.

Work closely with Criminal Defense attorneys to prepare compelling case reports and recommendations.

Qualifications

• MSW required; NYS LMSW or LCSW preferred, or ability to obtain LMSW within 6 months.
• Strong diagnostic skills focusing on mental health, intellectual/developmental delays, and substance use histories.
• Ability to interface with Judges, District Attorneys and Correctional Personnel in court/detention settings.
• Ability to negotiate with community-based treatment centers.
• Excellent written and oral communication and persuasive writing.
• Excellent organizational and computer skills; works well in a team.
• Ability to write compelling, well-structured reports and recommendations.
• Ability to conduct crisis intervention and short-term counseling when needed.
• Collaborates with defense attorneys to advocate for treatment and alternatives to detention.

Responsibilities

• Interview clients in court to gather bio-psycho-social information.
• Interview collateral sources such as family, teachers, and community members.
• Review and analyze life history records to document arguments for reports.
• Develop casework plans with attorneys and propose alternative sentencing options.
• Assess readiness for treatment and make referrals to services.
• Conduct in-person visits to clients in the community, jails, or hospitals.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Written & verbal communication

Organizational skills

Diagnostic skills

Persuasive writing

Team collaboration

Courtroom/interpersonal skills

Computer skills

Interviews and assessments

Crisis intervention

Education

MSW degree with NYS LMSW/LCSW license or ability to obtain LMSW within 6 months

Job description

The Legal Aid Society, the largest public-interest law firm in New York City, seeks a dedicated court-based Forensic Social Worker for the Parole Revocation Defense Unit in the Bronx. You will interview clients and collateral contacts to document life history, advocate for alternatives to detention, and assist in securing treatment and services.

Work closely with Criminal Defense attorneys to prepare compelling case reports and recommendations.