Remote Social Services Advocate – Public Defender Support

Commonwealth of Massachusetts; Framingham (MA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 97,000; Full time

Job summary

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Public Defender Division, Framingham Trial Office, is seeking a full-time Social Services Advocate to support adult defendants through social history evaluation, service planning, and court advocacy.

As part of a multidisciplinary team, the SSA conducts interviews, coordinates with community services, and contributes to disposition decisions with the defense. Flexibility for evenings/weekends may be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a social service field and one year of related experience or equivalent.
• Access to insured transportation and MA driver’s license; remote work capability.
• Experience with diverse populations and understanding of social services systems.

Responsibilities

• Maintain close contact with clients to build trust and assess needs.
• Conduct interviews respecting cultural differences to obtain histories.
• Develop treatment or service plans and connect clients to programs.
• Collaborate with defense counsel to support client outcomes.
• Prepare persuasive written advocacy for sentencing and mitigation.

Skills

Client interviewing

Case management

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Cultural humility

Bilingual abilities

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a social service field

Master’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, or related field

Job description

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Public Defender Division, Framingham Trial Office, is seeking a full-time Social Services Advocate to support adult defendants through social history evaluation, service planning, and court advocacy.

As part of a multidisciplinary team, the SSA conducts interviews, coordinates with community services, and contributes to disposition decisions with the defense. Flexibility for evenings/weekends may be required.