Counsel Substitute

Description

Position Summary:
Reports to the assistant warden. Performs entry level work as a representative and advocate of offenders in the correctional facility disciplinary process. Work involves providing technical support to offenders in the disciplinary process in compliance with Management & Training Corporation (MTC) and Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) directives.
Essential Functions:
1. Notify and interview offenders charged with violations of agency, facility, and unit rules and regulations; explain charges to offenders, and facility employees; conduct interviews, prepare written summaries of witness statements; and obtain all available forms of evidence.
2. Prepare and maintain accurate records on activities, assignments, and dispositions; and prepare related reports.
3. Assist in analyzing offenders’ positions and develop strategies of defense; advise offenders of most appropriate plans of action; represent offenders at the disciplinary hearings; negotiate the mitigation of punishments; and advise and assist offenders with disciplinary appellate procedures.
4. Create systems to effectively manage the process at assigned facilities.
5. Promote the development of positive social skills through modeling appropriate behaviors and intervening when inappropriate behaviors are observed; provide regular feedback to staff regarding social skills procedures and intervention techniques.
6. Maintain accountability of offenders and property; adhere to safety practices.
It is expected that the incumbent shall perform other duties as assigned within his/her capabilities as determined by management.
Education and Experience Requirements:
Graduation from an accredited senior high school or equivalent or GED. Three (3) months full-time, wage-earning Offender discipline experience.
--or--
Two (2) years full-time, wage-earning criminal justice experience. Thirty (30) semester hours from a college or university accredited by an organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or by the United States Department of Education (USDE) may be substituted for each year of experience on a year-for-year basis. Valid driver’s license in the state of Texas with an acceptable driving record required, unless waived by management.
Post Hire Requirements:
Must successfully complete annual in-service training requirements and pass an annual background check, both of which must be approved by TDCJ. Must successfully complete DHO ICS training within ninety (90) days of employment.