Senior Sentencing Guidelines Coordinator

County of Lancaster; United States; On-site; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

A Sentencing Guideline Coordinator is responsible for preparing all sentencing guidelines forms which will be relied upon by prosecutors when constructing plea offers, defense attorneys to convey possible penalties to their clients and judges when constructing and imposing sentence.

The Senior Guideline Coordinator oversees others, stays informed about changes to the law, and helps implement policy and training.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in criminal justice or related experience.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively to meet goals.

Responsibilities

• Prepare sentencing guidelines forms used by prosecutors, defense attorneys, and judges.
• Determine prior history, appropriate ranges, enhancements, and mandatory provisions.
• Enter data into SGS Web and redact discovery as needed.
• Assist with Rapid Resolution Court files and training of staff.
• Stay current with sentencing laws and coordinate policy updates.

Skills

Attention to detail

Research skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in criminal justice

Tools

JNET

NCIC/CLEAN

SGS Web

Job description

Starting Compensation: $47,209.50/Annually

Find job security and stability alongside a growing community and a team that supports you. Level up your career through a large network and specialty training.

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

A Sentencing Guideline Coordinator is responsible for preparing all sentencing guidelines forms which will be relied upon by prosecutors when constructing plea offers, defense attorneys to convey possible penalties to their clients and judges when constructing and imposing sentence. The guideline coordinator’s responsibilities include determining the nature and extent of each defendant's prior criminal history; determining the appropriate sentencing guidelines ranges, enhancements, and mandatory provisions to be considered when imposing sentence; and preparing the sentencing guidelines by entering data into the PA Commission on Sentencing Guidelines Software (SGS Web). A Sentencing Guideline Coordinator is also responsible for redacting discovery, preparing plea paperwork, and assisting with case files for Rapid Resolution Court. The Senior Sentencing Guideline Coordinator is responsible for overseeing the work of the other Sentencing Guideline Coordinators, ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the paperwork prepared by them. The Senior Sentencing Guideline Coordinator must stay informed about changes to the law impacting sentencing guidelines and coordinating with the First Assistant District Attorney to implement appropriate changes to policy and practice. The Senior Sentencing Guideline Coordinator is also responsible for implementing the directives of the First Assistant District Attorney, and formulating the methods for doing so. The Senior Sentencing Guideline Coordinator participates in the hiring and training of new Sentencing Guideline Coordinators, including training relative to NICE Justice, JNET/SGSweb, and the office's case-management system.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

This position reports to the First Assistant District Attorney.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Ensure that a J-NET or NCIC/CLEAN terminal inquiry is conducted for each case.
• Research any in-county docketing information with no disposition received to obtain final dispositions of all charges.
• Contact out-of-county and out-of-state agencies to verify the specific nature and disposition of prior offenses, translate into equivalent PA statutes prior convictions from other states and obtain certified documentation from other jurisdictions.
• Remain knowledgeable as to the current law regarding sentencing guidelines and alternatives, to include mandatory sentences and sentencing enhancements and departures.
• Respond to inquiries from other judicial, law enforcement, correctional or custody agencies and institutions regarding criminal histories originating in Lancaster County.
• Assist with training and evaluation of newly assigned Sentencing Guideline Coordinators
• Assist with preparation the Rapid Resolution Court files
• Any additional duties assigned by executive staff including but not limited to discovery redaction, closing of files, and any other file related tasks.

OTHER SPECIFIC TASKS OR DUTIES

• Maintain good communications between the other county agencies and outside agencies to meet established policies and procedures, objectives, program assessment and standards in order to aid the District Attorney's Office in attaining program goals.
• Perform other duties and assignments as required and directed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelors Degree preferably in criminal justice, sociology or the administration of justice from an accredited institution or other relevant qualifying experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, be proficient in research, interpreting, and analyzing data and possess the ability to work collaboratively and independently to achieve stated goals.
• Possess strong organization skills and attention to details skills; and the ability to maintain flexibility to multitask as needed.
• Ability to communicate effectively with co-workers, support staff, attorneys and others within County Government.
• At least one year experience as a Sentencing Guideline Coordinator.

REQUIRED LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS/CLEARANCES

Must be JNET and NCIC/CLEAN certified which requires a one-time training and recertification every two years.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Operate standard office equipment
• Sitting long periods of time in an office environment

About Us

Working for Lancaster County offers not just a job, but a chance to thrive both professionally and personally. The benefits package for full-time employees, including paid time off, health insurance and flexible healthcare plans, ensures that you feel valued and supported in your role. With employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement and more, you'll have the resources you need to provide excellent service to the 550,000 residents of Lancaster County. With 1,600 full-time employees and 300 part-time employees spread across 40 departments, there are plenty of opportunities for growth and development within the county. Whether you're interested in human services, public safety, administration, or any other field, there's a place for you to make a difference and advance your career. Lancaster County itself is a vibrant and diverse community, offering something for everyone. From the peaceful farmland to the bustling city and towns, there's always something new to discover. Whether it's exploring farmers markets, enjoying local cuisine, or immersing yourself in the rich history of the area, Lancaster County has endless opportunities for you and your family to learn, explore, and enjoy. Joining the team at Lancaster County means becoming part of a community dedicated to maintaining and improving this wonderful place we call home.

The County of Lancaster offers comprehensive benefits to our employees. Read more about our benefits here.

Lancaster County Government provides Equal Employment Opportunity for all persons regardless of race, religion, age, sex, national origin, genetic information or disability.

The County also observes all applicable laws regarding Veterans status. The County reflects this action in all areas of employment and compensation practices and policies.

Employment with the County is based upon the ability to perform the job as well as dependability and reliability once an individual is hired.