Chief Financial Officer

Diocese of Raleigh
Raleigh, NC

The Office of the Tribunal is seeking a compassionate and skilled professional to serve as a Court Expert in marriage nullity cases. The Court Expert serves as a technical/clinical consultant to the Tribunal. This role is essential in helping the Church understand the human story behind a marriage by using psychological expertise to help a Judge determine if a person had the emotional and mental capacity to enter into a valid marriage at the time of their wedding.

As a Court Expert, you provide a professional "bridge" to translate complex psychological data into actionable reports. You will provide a vital service that helps individuals find clarity and closure through a collaborative, truth-seeking judicial process. This is a unique opportunity to apply your clinical skills within a meaningful, mission-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Review Case Files: Read through written testimonies and the history of a marriage to identify patterns in behavior or personality.
  • Conduct Interviews: Occasionally meet with parties to listen to their story and assess their current and past mental state.
  • Write Clear Reports: Synthesize complex histories into a narrative report that explains why certain conditions or traits impacted the ability to handle the pressures of marriage.
  • Explain Complex Ideas: Act as an educator for court staff regarding personality disorders and how they affect human choices.
  • Collaborate: Work as part of a team with judges and court staff to ensure every case is handled with both truth and compassion.

Job Functions:

  • The Court Expert will also be asked to describe traits of certain personality disorders and how these would affect the ability to form consent.
  • The Court Expert is to agree to participate in Tribunal training and get a deep understanding of marriage cases and Tribunal work. The Court Expert must possess honesty and ecclesial integrity which allows for an appreciation of the purpose of the ecclesiastical marriage nullity trial.
  • The Court Expert will work closely with the Moderator of the Tribunal as well as with the judge assigned to the case. They will interact also with the case instructor assigned to the case.

Qualifications:

  • Respect for and awareness of the Catholic Church's teachings on marriage and a commitment to the mission of the Tribunal.
  • Bachelor’s Degree required; Master’s Degree and State Licensure (LPC, LCSW, LMFT, or Licensed Psychologist) are strongly preferred to meet the expert testimony standards of the Tribunal Court.
  • Experience in counseling and an interpersonal skillset designed for sensitive interviews.
  • Proven ability in argumentative writing.
  • Bilingual (Spanish/English) is highly preferred; must demonstrate competency regarding Hispanic cultural.
  • Successful completion of criminal background and reference checks, and completion of Diocese-sponsored Safe Environment Training, are conditions of employment.
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