Staff Attorney

Position Summary

The Staff Attorney/Victim Advocate provides legal advocacy and compassionate support to family survivors of homicide victims and victims of robbery. This position serves as a liaison between victims, their families, and the criminal justice system, ensuring that victims’ rights are upheld and that individuals are informed, supported, and guided throughout court proceedings.

Required Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited university
• Admission to the Alabama State Bar or eligibility for admission
• Considerable knowledge of:
• The impact of violent crime on victims and families
• Alabama court systems and criminal justice procedures
• Current trends in criminal activity, sentencing, rehabilitation, restitution, and treatment
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work on-call outside of regular business hours
• Ability to travel and stay overnight as required for court appearances

Work Schedule

• Regular office hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday–Friday
• In-office Monday–Thursday; remote work on Fridays
• After-hours work is compensated with flex time

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a liaison for homicide victims’ families and robbery victims within the criminal justice system
• Explain victims’ rights under Alabama law and provide clear information regarding trials, hearings, sentencing, and appeals
• Guide victims and families through the criminal justice process with care, clarity, and professionalism
• Prepare, file, and manage emergency legal motions, including but not limited to:
• Probate matters
• Emergency child custody petitions
• Protection orders
• Conduct legal research on assigned criminal cases and monitor case developments
• Review court dockets daily across eight counties to identify hearings and trials requiring attendance, prioritizing trials, bond hearings, and preliminary hearings
• Notify victims or designated contacts of upcoming court dates via phone or text message
• Attend court proceedings and sit with victims or family members to explain courtroom procedures and provide emotional support
• Collaborate closely with district attorneys, victim service officers, and prosecutors throughout each case
• Maintain accurate and timely case files, including progress notes and client information
• Prepare daily and weekly reports for the Executive Director
• Serve as a professional ambassador for the agency in all interactions with courts, prosecutors’ offices, and community partners

Compensation

• Starting salary: $60,000–$80,000, commensurate with experience and education