Mitigation Advocate & Defense Social Worker

State of Missouri; Monett (MO); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Missouri Public Defender System (MSPD) seeks a mitigation specialist to connect clients with services and advocate for holistic outcomes in the criminal legal system. You will work with attorneys to identify goals, coordinate resources, and prepare mitigation materials in a collaborative defense team setting.

The role emphasizes trauma-informed interviews, community engagement, and data-informed practice across large geographic areas. Travel within the assigned region is expected.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree required; relevant experience may substitute.
• Knowledge of available community-based social services and resources.
• Understanding of collateral consequences of criminal charges and convictions.

Responsibilities

• Work with clients to identify and achieve service goals.
• Provide case management services linking clients to mental health, housing, employment, and transportation.
• Conduct psychosocial history interviews with clients.
• Develop mitigation memoranda for use in clients’ cases.
• Occasionally testify or provide in-court advocacy.
• Identify and interview mitigation witnesses.
• Draft formal and informal mitigation memoranda.
• Engage with community organizations to improve access to services.
• Supervise HDS interns and onboard new team members.

Skills

Trauma-informed interviewing

Strong communication

Time management

Travel regionally

Independent initiative

Supervisory experience

Education

Master’s degree in psychology, social work, sociology, or closely related field

Masters in Social Work preferred

Job description

Missouri Public Defender System (MSPD) seeks a mitigation specialist to connect clients with services and advocate for holistic outcomes in the criminal legal system. You will work with attorneys to identify goals, coordinate resources, and prepare mitigation materials in a collaborative defense team setting.

The role emphasizes trauma-informed interviews, community engagement, and data-informed practice across large geographic areas. Travel within the assigned region is expected.