Under general supervision, provides staff support to the District Attorney, including administration and coordination of the Victim/Witness Services Grant.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Receives criminal complaints; researches case-related information by accessing Texas Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (TLETS); downloads prior charge and criminal history reports; prepares case file and provides to prosecutor.
- Prepares legal documents such as plea packets, motions, orders, dismissals, judgments, and dispositions; files appropriate documents with District/County Clerk's Office.
- Processes refusals on criminal cases, including preparation of case dispositions and distribution of copies to appropriate parties.
- Meets with victims and witnesses requesting services and assistance; advises victims and witness of their options and rights under Texas law; explains court procedures and accompanies victims and witnesses to court, as requested.
- Assists victims with the preparation of victim impact statements, affidavits, and crime victims' compensation forms; calculates restitution for property crimes.
- Checks plea list and advises victims of plea bargains and their right to address court.
- Assists in the preparation of emergency protective orders and affidavits.
- Uses criminal case management software to enter and document pertinent information and case status; accesses Texas Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (TLETS) and Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) to obtain and update case information; maintains TLETS terminal security in accordance with State requirements.
- Maintains activity statistics and prepares workload and grant reports; prepares monthly and quarterly grant reports; communicates and interacts with attorneys, victims, witnesses, District Clerk staff, and court personnel.
- Reviews case files for completeness and accuracy prior to closing file or referring file to District/County Attorney.
- Prepares or drafts correspondence, as needed; answers phone and provides information or refers call to appropriate individual or office; attends meetings and seminars; performs other duties as required.
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills:
- Knowledge of legal terminology and forms
- basic knowledge of court procedures
- knowledge of data entry and database maintenance procedures
- knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet software
- Ability to organize, prioritize and perform work in a self-directed manner
- ability to accurately maintain records and data
- ability to prepare reports using basic mathematical calculations
- ability to operate a personal computer and other office equipment
- ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people
- Skill in oral/written communication and interpersonal relations
Physical Requirements and Work Setting:
- Works in a well-lighted, air-conditioned environment
- prolonged periods of sitting and periodic walking, standing, bending, and reaching
- occasional lifting up to 15lbs
- visual acuity, hearing ability, and manual dexterity required
Education and/or Experience Required:
- High school graduate or equivalent and three years of experience providing a knowledge and understanding of legal documents and basic court procedures
- OR, a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice, a Social Science, or other related field
Certificates and Licenses: