Criminal Justice Intern

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The Criminal Justice Intern serves under the Criminal Justice Program which aims to break the cycle of abuse, educate victims about resources, and support them to achieve a life free from the grip of domestic violence and sexual assault. The Criminal Justice Intern reports to the Volunteer Recruitment Manager and works closely with our advocacy team. Beacon of Hope has formulated partnerships with police departments in Central Indiana. Victim Advocates respond to police reports to offer victims services, safety planning and address other needs that they may have. The Criminal Justice Intern helps Victim Advocates to better serve our clients.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Gain Education in the Following Areas:
  • Domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, child abuse, elder abuse, and strangulation
  • Barriers for undeserved communities and how we can increase accessibility
  • Victim rights in civil and criminal justice systems
  • Requirements and process for filing a protective order
  • Crime Victims Compensation
• Become familiar with resources to verify court information and offender status updates.
• Shadow Victim Advocate meetings including intakes, protective orders, and safety planning.
• Accompany and assist the PO Victim Advocate for court accompaniment (as needed).
• Complete personalized research to help victims obtain long-term housing and employment.
• Complete research to help victims with resources and referrals for medical, legal, counseling/support groups, etc.
• Assist with other tasks to help the advocacy team meet the needs of victims.
• Research laws related to domestic violence and sexual assaults.
• DOES NOT give legal advice, always refers the victims to their attorneys.
• DOES NOT talk in court, even when judge asks the questions - The intern must review court accompaniment guidelines in order to attend and adhere to all BOHCC policies.

• Ability to stay calm and use appropriate judgment under stressful situations
• Critical thinking and evaluation skills
• Attention to details in record keeping, coordination and documentation
• Ability to handle multiple tasks
• Excellent organizational skills
• Ability to problem solve and make appropriate decisions in urgent situations
• Ability to demonstrate professionalism
• Ability to follow instructions
• Ability and willingness to speak and ask if unsure; propensity to learn

• Completed or in the process of obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in criminology, criminal justice, law, social work or related field OR previous experience in working with traumatized persons.
• Adhere to BOHCC’s confidentiality policies