Social Worker, Mental Health

Licensed Social Worker

The Licensed Social Worker is the first level within the social worker series wherein employees are oriented to the role of mitigation, case management release planning, and forensic social work in a criminal public defense system; apply relevant techniques, methods and/or theories of the profession within that role; and, learn to apply their social work practice within the policies, procedures, rules and regulations specific to the Colorado State Public Defender.

Public Defender Social Workers serve as part of the defense team, and as such, are bound by the Colorado Rules of Professional Conduct including rules regarding the attorney-client privilege and client confidentiality. Social Workers perform duties and assume responsibility for case assignments under the specific direction, instruction and guidance of a defense attorney.

Primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Conduct assessments and compile psychosocial histories to develop recommendations concerning pretrial release, detention, case preparation, alternative placements, treatment options, conditions of probation or diversion, and sentencing and post-sentencing options, as appropriate.
• Conduct assessments to identify physical or mental health issues, substance abuse or other patterns potentially influencing the client's development, personality or behavior. Document and interpret symptoms of mental and behavioral impairment to assist the defense in developing case strategies.
• Collect social and family histories through interviews and document review, including highly sensitive and confidential information. Identify psychosocial influences and patterns in the client's development and behavior including, but not limited to, socio/cultural/economic status and behavioral health issues.
• Assist in obtaining and reviewing relevant records, evaluations or reports; and, analyze the significance of information relevant to the client's circumstances and case. Where appropriate, assist the defense team in documenting and organizing digital and physical files of information collected.
• Assist the defense team in identifying medical or mental health experts to further examine, evaluate and testify regarding the client's physical or mental health issues. Assist in interpreting evaluation findings.
• Serve as a collaborative member of the defense team:

Consult with attorneys on the appropriate approach to the case; maintain regular and timely communications with the team; provide support to the client; and, identify and advocate for appropriate options for the client.

• Participate in pretrial and sentencing hearings, prepare reports, and provide additional support as requested by the defense attorney.
• Keep current on statewide resources available and relevant to client needs such as, treatment programs and alternative placements. Conduct research necessary to ensure resources are current.
• Attend multi-agency and multi-disciplinary staffing meetings regarding the client.
• May supervise and mentor student interns enrolled in a graduate-level social work education program.
• Requires frequent travel within the State of Colorado.
• Performs other duties of a similar nature and level as assigned. ( non-essential )

Minimal educational/professional qualifications include:

• Master's degree from an accredited college or university educational program in social work;
• Licensure to practice social work (LSW or LCSW) in the State of Colorado within 90 days of employment.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Training or experience in a criminal defense system.
• Experience working with adults involved in the criminal justice system.