Holistic Defense Services Specialist

Job Description

Holistic Defense Services Specialist – Defense Social Worker | State of Missouri

The Tone:
This is an entry-level role at the Missouri State Public Defender System (MSPD), located in the State of Missouri. MSPD is committed to providing high-quality legal representation to individuals who cannot afford an attorney, utilizing a holistic defense model. This position is crucial for supporting clients through compassionate, client-centered advocacy, addressing social, medical, educational, and personal challenges that impact their cases and long-term success. The role makes a meaningful difference by connecting clients with resources and assisting in client advocacy efforts.

The TL;DR
• Role: Early Career
• Type: Full-time
• Location: In-person, State of Missouri

• Team: Works alongside attorneys, investigators, mitigation specialists, and other defense team members.
• Mission: To support clients through compassionate, client-centered advocacy by providing case management services and assisting with mitigation and holistic defense efforts.
• Tech Stack: Case management systems, Office technology, Computers

What You’ll Actually Do
• Interviews: Conduct psychosocial and mitigation interviews with clients to gather relevant information for their cases.
• Records Management: Obtain and organize medical, educational, mental health, treatment, employment, and other pertinent records.
• Documentation: Assist with the preparation of mitigation memoranda, timelines, dispositional materials, and other client advocacy documents.
• Resource Connection: Identify community resources and connect clients with appropriate support services to address their needs.
• Case Support: Provide case management assistance to address client needs and support attorneys with client-centered advocacy and holistic defense strategies.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in social work, psychology, sociology, criminal justice, counseling, or a closely related field. This is an entry-level position.
• Experience: Four years of relevant professional experience in social services, case management, behavioral health, criminal justice, or advocacy may substitute for the bachelor’s degree.
• Skills: Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills; proficiency with computers and case management software; ability to communicate effectively and compassionately with individuals from diverse backgrounds; ability to work with clients experiencing trauma, mental illness, substance use disorders, housing instability, or other significant barriers; professional judgment, discretion, and the ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Bonus: Interest in holistic defense, mitigation, or client-centered advocacy; knowledge of social service systems, behavioral health resources, and community-based programs; ability to establish positive working relationships with clients, attorneys, service providers, and community partners; willingness to travel as needed to meet with clients, visit facilities, and coordinate services.