Texas RioGrande Public Defender

Caseworker

• Provide peer support for individuals involved in the criminal legal system who may be experiencing behavioral health challenges while navigating incarceration, bond, probation, and court-ordered conditions
• Assist attorneys with gathering clients’ social histories and developing mitigating information
• Collaborate with local mental health authorities and social service providers to connect individuals to appropriate resources, including rehabilitation programs, shelters, and other programs
• Ensure privacy and confidentiality of information learned or received within the peer relationship
• Complete required documentation promptly
• Work with assigned attorneys to advocate for clients with the Court, Prosecutors, Probation, and other outside entities
• Use a nonjudgmental approach, effective listening, positive interactions, person-centered practices, and trauma-informed practices
• Develop proposals for alternatives to incarceration during the pretrial or post-conviction phase
• Testify in court on behalf of clients when appropriate
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned