PRETRIAL SERVICES SPECIALIST (#SS5 )

$27.59-$35.22 hourly / $4,782.00-$6,105.00 monthly / $57,387.20-$73,257.60 yearly

Under general supervision, to interview detainees to gather and analyze background information; make recommendations to the Court concerning bail adjustments and "own recognizance" releases; and performs other duties as required.

Pretrial Services Specialists interview detainees, evaluate information provided, and make recommendations regarding release based upon a combination of established criteria and judgment.

Review detention housing files on all inmates brought into custody to determine those eligible for the possibility of release and place those files in priority order; interview detainees in a locked facility covering areas such as residence, ties to the community and employment; verify information obtained in interviews; conduct background checks; gather and review criminal history records; obtain information from a variety of sources such as judges, victims, employers, families and friends of detainees, Probation, Parole, and Mental Health; act as a liaison with records personnel, judges, court staff and other criminal justice and social service agencies; evaluate information, prepare reports, and make recommendations to the Court concerning bail adjustments and conditions for release; appear in court as required to provide information and testimony; maintain files and records regarding case disposition; monitor the status of released persons and investigate the whereabouts of defendants who fail to appear in court; prepare correspondence and paper work such as agreements to appear, reminder letters, bail enhancement forms; compile statistics; answer inquiries from the public, court and detention personnel regarding detainee's status; and enter and access computerized information.

Knowledge of:

Working knowledge of:

• Interviewing and investigative techniques.
• The principles of penology as they affect persons in legal custody.
• Court and arrest procedures.
• Social, economic and psychological forces that affect behavior.
• Laws relative to criminal offenses.
• Local law enforcement record-keeping systems.
• Community and governmental resources available for office procedures and practices.

Ability to:

• Interview effectively and obtain needed information.
• Gain the trust of detainees from diverse cultural, educational and socio-economic backgrounds to obtain confidential information.
• Diffuse potentially volatile situations.
• Analyze information; evaluate the consequences of alternative solutions and use sound judgment in reaching conclusions.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with judges, detainees, law enforcement personnel, Mental Health employees, and others contacted in the course of business.
• Understand, apply and interpret regulations, policies and procedures.
• Learn to read criminal history sheets, from a variety of sources such as the FBI, DMV, and state and local law enforcement agencies.
• Effectively use criminal justice information resources.
• Prepare clear, factual and comprehensive correspondence and reports.
•  Set priorities and work effectively under the pressure of deadlines.
• Work independently with little supervision.
• Orally present and explain facts and situations effectively.
• Maintain accurate and complete records.
• Input and access computerized information.
• Work in locked facilities.
• Push and pull heavy doors to gain access to locked facilities.
• Carry files, reports, and reference journals weighing up to 15 pounds.
• Distinguish mechanical sounds such as warning alarms and low volume conversations in a noisy environment.

Education and Experience:

Any combination of education and experience, which would provide the required knowledge and abilities, is qualifying, unless otherwise specified. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Two years of experience which demonstrates the ability to investigate and/or interview in a legal, criminal justice or social service environment; or one year of experience and two years of college (the equivalent of 60 semester units) in criminal justice, psychology, penology, sociology or a related field.

Special Requirements, Conditions:

License Requirements: Possession of a valid California class C driver license.

Background Investigation: Fingerprinting and background investigation is required.

Special Working Conditions: Exposure to: Offensive odors; individuals who may be intoxicated or mentally ill; individuals who may be verbally and/or physically abusive; high levels of noise; allergens such as dust; and the possibility of exposure to infections which might cause chronic disease or death.

Other Special Requirements: Availability to work a flexible schedule.