Misdemeanor Case Coordinator

Summit Legal Defenders’ Social Work Team is seeking a Case Coordinator in the Misdemeanor Division. 

SALARY AND BENEFITS 

• Salary range $55,000.00 - $65,000.00 commensurate with experience.
• Benefits include paid vacation, sick time, life insurance, dental, vision, medical, parental leave, and retirement 401(k). 
• Employees are not eligible for participation in the OPERS retirement system, but qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. 
• This is an exempt, at-will position. 
• The outside practice of social work/counseling is not permitted. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Maintain regular communication with clients including building rapport, sustaining contact, and monitoring client progress.
• Document client activities in Ohio Public Defender case management system and maintain social work tracking spreadsheet.
• Work collaboratively with clients, lawyers, and outside agencies to facilitate client success.
• Obtain necessary records to aid in the successful representation of clients.
• Assess and evaluate client needs and provide appropriate referrals.
• Assist attorneys in communication with clients including those experiencing unique challenges such as development delays, complex trauma, and severe mental health issues.
• Attend court hearings and specialty court meetings as needed.
• Facilitate and participate in training within and outside the office.
• Perform all other duties assigned by Summit Legal Defenders.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, sociology, social work, psychology, or a closely related field.
• Minimum one year’s experience in the field of social services.
• Ohio licensed social worker is highly preferred.
• Commitment to client service and excellent communication skills.
• Experience working in and with racially and socioeconomically marginalized communities.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the issues of race, poverty, mental health, and substance abuse as they relate to the criminal legal system.
• Commitment to social justice and an unwavering belief in the right to representation for defendants.
• Proficiency in MS Office applications, remote meeting software platforms, and use of online case management systems.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation to accommodate client meetings throughout Summit County.

APPLICATION

• Cover letter addressing your interests and experience.
• Resume.
• Name, relationship, and contact information for three references.

Send materials to: employment@legaldefenders.org

ABOUT SUMMIT LEGAL DEFENDERS

The Summit Legal Defenders’ mission is to treat every client as an individual, not the sum of their charges. We envision our work within the context of social justice and the opportunity for growth and change. Our attorneys work to offer solutions to problemsand navigate the criminal justicesystem in partnership with the client. Our goal is to provide high-quality legal service to the indigent population of Summit County in a respectful, diligent, and responsive manner.

We are a non-profit agency established in 1974 with our main office in downtown Akron, Ohio, led by Director Andrea Whitaker. For more information, please visit our website.