INDIGENOUS FAMILY AND COMBINED COURTWORKER

Job Description:
At The Indigenous Friendship Centre in Sault Ste. Marie, we are passionate about the cause and the people we serve in our community through various programs and services offered.
Program Goals:
The Indigenous Family and Combined Courtwork Program supports Indigenous youth and families involved in the justice system understand their rights, options and responsibilities when appearing before the courts. Family and Combined Courtworkers assist Indigenous people (with a primary focus on youth) charged in the criminal system and Indigenous families involved with family law and child welfare matters regardless of whether they are Status, non-status, Metis or Inuit.
Duties and Responsibilities: (key)
• Design, develop, delivery and debrief workshops related to justice matters to community including workshops specific to youth justice;
• Presentations to justice people involved in the justice system on the Courtwork program, culture competency
• Program promotion including program brochures, business cards, etc.;
• Promoting understanding within the Indigenous community of the mainstream justice system and including Indigenous community justice processes;
• Attend court – adult/youth criminal, family and child matters;
• Understand criminal/family/child protection court processes;
• Act as a liaison between the direct-service user and justice personnel;
• Provide the court with relevant information including;
• Obtain court dockets from court administration;
• Being visible in the courts by reaching out to Indigenous people in the court halls/holding cells;
• Complete an Intake/Assessment/Action plan with direct-service users;
• Participate in Crown Resolution meetings or council Pre-trial (CPT) where permitted;
• Review Disclosure/Crown Screening Form with the direct service user where available;
• Make referrals to Friendship Centre or other community programs;
Core Competencies:
Culture: Takes personal responsibility to increase sensitivity, awareness and implementation of IFCSSM’s cultural foundational teachings and organizational practices in both professional conduct and work-related deliverables.
Accountability: Takes personal ownership and responsibility for the quality and timeliness of work commitments.
Critical Thinking: Applies systematic, logical reasoning when addressing problems or situations in order to arrive at an appropriate solution or outcome.
Results Orientation: Accomplishes established goals, delivers the outcomes required and achieves the results. It includes the efficient and effective use of all resources (time, financial, people and technology).
Teamwork and Collaboration: Works collaboratively with others and addresses conflict in a win-win productive manner. This includes a mindset of sharing with others whether it is knowledge, recognition, information and skills. Working towards a common purpose of the good of IFCSSM and the communities we serve.

Education, Training & Experience:
• University degree or college diploma in a field related Law/Criminal Justice and/or comparable/relative education
• Paralegal Certification is highly recommended
• Continued education in Indigenous studies is an asset
• Experience in the structure of the justice system
• Practice, knowledge and/or certification/hours, dealing with victim issues surrounding criminal/and or family law
• Or the equivalent combination of education and experience

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
• Knowledge of criminal code, family law, relevant acts, familiarity of court procedures and terminology
• Extensive familiarity of legal documents and forms
• Understanding that legal advice cannot be provided, but instead, referred to the appropriate parties
• Proven experience and knowledge of victim issues surrounding: abuse, mental health, addictions, etc.
• Excellent oral, written and interpersonal communication skills
• High-level planning, organizational and budgeting skills
• Demonstration experience and proven ability to deal respectfully and competently with clients, diverse community members and partners
• Proven ability to maintain sensitivity towards cultural, religious, economic and social beliefs, values and opinions
• Knowledge of community resources, support services and the variety of unique program information available
• Strong organizational/time management skills with an ability of plan ahead, define measurable objectives and outcomes and meet objectives in a timely manner
• Demonstrated abilities using Microsoft Office and database experience
• Understanding of social media platforms for use of virtual programming
• Knowledge of Ojibway/Anishinaabe culture and traditions preferred
• Ability to speak and understand the Ojibway language is an asset
• Must work independently, but also effectively as a team member

Requirements:
• Proof of valid Covid-19 Vaccination (Dose 1 & Dose 2)
• Current and valid Vulnerable Sector check, as per the Criminal Record Review Act
• Must possess a valid Driver’s License and access to a reliable vehicle
• Must provide a clear Driver’s Abstract
• Must have or is willing to obtain First Aid/CPR Training Certification
• Ability to work flexible hours (occasional evenings and weekends, may be required)

Indigenous people who possess the qualifications, competence, professional capabilities, previous work experience and ability and willingness to meet the defined needs, goals and policies of the IFCSSM will be given first preference.

APPLICANTS MAY SEND A COVER LETTER, RESUME & 3 EMPLOYMENT REFERENCES TO: [email protected]