Career Opportunities

Salary: $15.65/hour + benefits

The job
The Twelfth Judicial Circuit has an opening for a full-time laboratory technician to work with Manatee County’s Treatment Court Programs. The lab technician is primarily responsible for the monitoring and collection of urine of treatment court clients and outside agencies as required. The lab technician will also be responsible for the overall operation of the urinalysis-testing component and the use of the breathalyzer machine to monitor abstinence, observes and collects urine/breath testing samples, directs testing of urine samples, analyzing and recording all test results for illegal drugs and alcohol. The employee will be responsible for observing male clients urinalysis, so only male applicants will be considered for this position.

Your daily responsibilities:

• Monitors and tracks urine specimens for each male client in addition to outside agency customers
• acquire and maintain AU480 certification within 6 months of date of hire;
• data entry and reports (maintain accurate and detailed statistical records);
• stays knowledgeable of lab policies and procedures, drug trends and cross reactivity;
• maintains equipment and chemical supplies;
• supplies the Court with written and/or oral reports;
• attend court hearings as needed; and
• inventories testing equipment and orders all testing supplies.

Skills, knowledge and abilities needed:

• Basic knowledge of the legal system, court processes and procedures;
• knowledge of and ability to develop lab policies and procedures;
• knowledge of illegal substances and prescription drugs, masking agents, drug retention schedules and levels of substances for testing purposes;
• knowledge of laws pertaining to probation, corrections, alcohol and drug treatment, and the criminal justice process;
• ability to organize and prioritize;
• ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing;
• ability to provide accurate data entry;
• ability to maintain confidentiality;
• ability to handle multiple tasks with deadline requirements;
• ability to interact professionally and maintain an effective working relationship with supervisor, co-workers and the public; and
• ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Education
Bachelor’s degree in a related field or from a technical program. Work experience and/or education equivalent combination will substitute for the degree requirement.

Benefits
The Manatee County Government benefit package includes health, dental and vision insurance; supplemental insurance (cancer, disability, and accident); Florida Retirement System membership; and paid time off.

Apply
Apply directly through Manatee County Government Career Opportunities page. The posting will close April 23, 2020. You must complete the online application to be considered for this position. Cover letters are encouraged.

Position Type: Full-Time 
Position Available: Immediately 
Salary: $13.90/hour + benefits

The job
The Twelfth Judicial Circuit has an opening for a full-time laboratory technician to work with Sarasota County’s Treatment Court Programs. The lab technician is primary responsible for the monitoring and collection of urine of treatment court clients. The lab technician will also be responsible for the overall operation of the urinalysis-testing component and the use of the breathalyzer machine to monitor abstinence, observes and collects urine/breath testing samples, directs testing of urine samples, analyzing and recording all test results for illegal drugs and alcohol. The employee will be responsible for observing male clients urinalysis, so only male applicants will be considered for this position.

Your daily responsibilities:

• Monitors and tracks urine specimens for each client in both North County and South County locations;
• acquire and maintain AU480 certification within 6 months of date of hire;
• data entry and reports (maintain accurate and detailed statistical records); 
  stays knowledgeable of lab policies and procedures and helps update as needed;
• maintains equipment and chemical supplies;
• supplies the Court with written and/or oral reports;
• attend court hearings as needed; and
• inventories testing equipment and orders all testing supplies.

Skills, knowledge and abilities needed:

• Basic knowledge of the legal system, court processes and procedures;
• knowledge of and ability to develop lab policies and procedures;
• knowledge of illegal substances and prescription drugs, masking agents, drug retention schedules and levels of substances for testing purposes;
• knowledge of laws pertaining to probation, corrections, alcohol and drug treatment, and the criminal justice process;
• ability to organize and prioritize;
• ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing;
• ability to provide accurate data entry;
• ability to maintain confidentiality;
• ability to handle multiple tasks with deadline requirements;
• ability to interact professionally and maintain an effective working relationship with supervisor, co-workers and the public; and
• ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Education
Bachelor’s degree in a related field or from a technical program. Work experience and/or education equivalent combination will substitute for the degree requirement.

Benefits
The Sarasota County Government benefit package includes health, dental and vision insurance; supplemental insurance (cancer, disability, and accident); Florida Retirement System membership; and paid time off.

Apply
Apply directly through Sarasota County Government Career Opportunities page. The posting will close April 24, 2020. You must complete the online application to be considered for this position. Cover letters are encouraged.

Position Type: Full-Time, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. + Shift
Position Available: 03/09/2020
Annual Salary: $31,780.90 (non-negotiable; State employees are paid on the last workday of each month) *The successful candidate will be hired at the minimum salary

The Digital Court Recorder is responsible independent, technical, and clerical work monitoring multiple court proceedings from a central location using the OpenCourt/CourtSmart software for digital audio recording. The Digital Court Recorder annotates court events as they occur within the recording for future retrieval. The employee may be required to sit in one position for long periods of time. Work is performed under the supervision of a Manager of Digital Court Recording or other Court Managers, and must exercise discretion with sensitive and confidential information. While work is performed independently, the employee will share an office with up to five other court recorders and must work well in a team environment.

Education and Training Guidelines
Education: A High School diploma or GED and one year of college or vocational school education in office skills, computer operation or closely related field.
Experience: Two years of legal experience. Additional relevant education may substitute for the recommended experience on a year-for-year basis.

Examples of Work Performed
• Monitors and annotates all proceedings in assigned courtrooms in order to ensure a complete and accurate recording of the proceedings;
• Monitors audio quality, performs tests of digital recording equipment, advises supervisor of improperly functioning equipment;
• Performs playback services for the Court and provides CDs or other retrieval records of recorded hearings to the public;
• Communicates with Judicial Assistants and Clerks through email, phone and software (SmartBench, Benchmark, JACS, etc.);
• Maintains statistical data regarding digitally recorded proceedings and media provided to the Court, litigants and the general public.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities
This position requires basic knowledge of the legal system; court processes and procedures; and the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Knowledge of the rules of English grammar, spelling, punctuation
• Ability to learn, use and understand the OpenCourt/CourtSmart software and digital recording system or any other software that may be required to perform duties
• Ability to use a personal computer in a Windows environment, including WORD, Excel, and email application
• Ability to multi-task and type accurately
• Ability to compose, proofread, and edit correspondence and reports
• Ability to compute basic mathematical and statistical functions such as percentages and averages
• Ability to work in a close environment with co-workers
• Ability to plan, organize and complete special assignments with minimum supervision
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with other court personnel, outside agencies, legal professionals, and the general public
• Ability to efficiently prioritize and organize work and meet deadlines
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing
• Ability to establish work priorities, work under pressure and organize work
• Ability to handle multiple tasks with deadline requirements
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, automated environment with interruptions
• Ability to maintain confidentiality concerning sensitive issues before the court
• Knowledge of court system procedures, practices and applicable statutes, rules, regulations, laws and ordinances

Technology and Equipment Usage
In addition to the ability to use basic office equipment, this position calls for strong computer skills, such as: proficient typing skills; the ability to use computer applications such as OpenCourt/CourtSmart, Microsoft Office products and Microsoft Outlook; searching the Internet; and the ability to learn and use new program software. Must be able to use a personal computer, copy machines, fax machines, scanning devices, multi-line telephones.

To Apply:
Interested applicants must submit a current State of Florida Application to the Human Resources Manager of the Twelfth Judicial Circuit. A cover letter and current resume are encouraged. Application materials may be submitted electronically or via mail delivery to:

Human Resources Manager
Court Administration
Judge Lynn N. Silvertooth Judicial Center
P.O. Box 48927
Sarasota, FL 34230

Faxed and emailed applications will be accepted.
Fax: 941-861-7904 | Email: HR@jud12.flcourts.org

The successful applicant will be subject to a Criminal Background Check. The Florida State Courts System is a criminal justice agency.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability.  If you need an accommodation in order to participate in the application/selection process, please call 941-861-7811.

Pursuant to 110.205(2)(c) of the Florida Statutes, employment with the State Courts System is not covered under the Career Service System and all employees of the State System serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and do not attain tenure rights.

Sarasota and Manatee Counties
State of Florida Position Number: 10928
Annual salary (non-negotiable): $36,115.32 ($3,009.61/month)

Benefits include membership in the Florida Retirement System and a generous contribution by the State to health insurance premiums

Position available June 1, 2020. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early.

The Twelfth Judicial Circuit is seeking a Domestic Violence Facilitator to assist the family court judges and magistrates by providing temporary restraining order case facilitation, pro se case management and administrative support to the family division. This position’s responsibilities include vast administrative tasks; reviewing family law cases for litigants who are not represented by counsel; related case searches; drafting orders; keeping statistics; setting and attending hearings; assigning professionals to cases ordering reduced fee family programs; and working closely with the Court Operations Manager, family judges, magistrates, their assistants and other court personnel.  The position requires communication with pro se litigants, as well as other professionals such as mental health providers and attorneys.  This position handles temporary restraining order tasks and facilitation three days per week and dedicates two days a week to pro se tasks. 

Occasional travel to Venice and Arcadia may be required.  The Domestic Violence Facilitator will work independently, but must be able to demonstrate flexibility to help meet the needs of the family division.   

Examples of work performed:

• Reviews pleadings and court files;
• drafts correspondence and orders;
• schedules court hearings;
• attends court hearings;
• meets with parties to domestic violence cases;
• maintains program statistics; and
• participates in community agency meetings and attends training opportunities. 

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in public or business administration, criminal justice, psychology, sociology or a related field.
• Additional relevant experience may substitute for the recommended educational level on a year-for-year basis. 

Apply:

Email (preferred), fax or mail resume, cover letter, and completed State of Florida Employment Application to Human Resources Manager, Court Administration, P. O. Box 48927, Sarasota, FL 34230; fax (941) 861-7904.

*****

The successful applicant will be subject to a Criminal Background Check.  The Florida State Courts System is a criminal justice agency.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability.  If you need an accommodation in order to participate in the application or selection process, please call 941-861-7811.

Pursuant to 110.205(2)(c) of the Florida Statutes, employment with the State Courts System is not covered under the Career Service System and all employees of the State System serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and do not attain tenure rights.

The job:
Drug Court is a specialized treatment court that combines legal proceedings, addiction treatment and rehabilitation into one program. This 40-hour per week, Monday-Friday position requires experience in addictions and counseling and a minimum Bachelor’s degree. The successful candidate is professional and organized, and must possess a valid driver’s license, pass background screening and reference checks. This position will be a contractual employee of Centerstone, supervised by the Court, and based in Bradenton.

Skills, knowledge and abilities needed:

• Able to facilitate individual and group sessions;
• Able to counsel individuals who are addicted to drugs and alcohol, and help them identify behaviors and problems related to their addiction;
• Able to maintain accurate documentation; and
• Able to develop treatment plans, psychosocial assessments and reports to the court.

To apply:
All candidates must complete the Centerstone application to be considered for the position.

Interested candidates are encouraged to email their current resume to the Court's Human Resources Department.

DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota Counties
State of Florida Position Number: 10928

Annual salary (non-negotiable): $45,303.72 ($3,775.31/month)

Benefits include membership in the Florida Retirement System and a generous contribution by the State to health insurance premiums

Position available immediately. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early.

The Twelfth Judicial Circuit is seeking a Mediation Services Coordinator (MSC) to conduct family and dependency mediations and oversee the court's Citizen Dispute Settlement Programs in Manatee and Sarasota Counties, which includes working directly with program directors to ensure effective operation of the pre-filing and county civil mediation programs. The MSC reports directly to the circuit's Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Director.

The ideal candidate will be a Florida Supreme Court certified family mediator with supervisory experience. 

Examples of work performed:

• Conducts family and dependency mediations, facilitating the discussion of legal issues between involved parties for court referred cases and informs litigants about the mediation process prior to commencement of every mediation; 
• Prepares/drafts settlement agreements, court orders or impasse reports on all cases mediated; reviews agreements with all parties involved and manages execution of agreements by parties; completes closing paperwork and statistical records/reports for mediation cases of responsibility;
• reviews case files, pleadings and other documents pertinent to cases; 
• Works with ADR Director and mediation staff to establish and maintain procedures pertaining to volunteer mediators, such as volunteer rights and obligations, program procedures, standards of conduct, criteria for performance review and renewal, etc.
• Coordinates and/or conducts CME trainings for volunteer mediators; 
• Reviews applications, approves, oversees, monitors participation, tracks re-certification and acts as the court liaison for volunteer mediators; 
• Markets and exposes the Citizen Dispute Settlement and Family Pre-filing programs to the public, which includes public speaking and actively seeking out and providing program information to possible referral sources.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, law or a closely related field. A juris doctorate or master's degree is preferred. 
• Four years of related experience, including extensive experience in conducting mediations. 
• Requires Florida Supreme Court certification in family mediation. Dependency certification is preferred and the incumbent will be required to obtain Dependency certification within six months of hire.  

Apply:

Email (preferred), fax or mail resume, cover letter, copy of mediation certifications and completed State of Florida Employment Application to Human Resources Manager, Court Administration, P. O. Box 48927, Sarasota, FL 34230; fax (941) 861-7904.

*****

The successful applicant will be subject to a Criminal Background Check.  The Florida State Courts System is a criminal justice agency.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability.  If you need an accommodation in order to participate in the application or selection process, please call 941-861-7811.

Pursuant to 110.205(2)(c) of the Florida Statutes, employment with the State Courts System is not covered under the Career Service System and all employees of the State System serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and do not attain tenure rights.

Salary: $17.60/hour with DJJ certification; $15.58/hour without DJJ certification
Position available: Immediately

The job
The Twelfth Judicial Circuit is accepting applications for a Pretrial Services Juvenile Assessment Center (JAC) Screener vacancy in Sarasota County. The position is in the JAC in the Sarasota County jail. Work schedules at the JAC are in 12-hour shifts, and include nights, weekends and holidays. There is a shift differential for working nights once training is completed.

A few of your daily responsibilities:

• Assess, screen and release juvenile offenders;
• ensure each youth receives medical and mental health clearance prior to admission to the JAC;
• conduct suicide risk, mental health and substance abuse assessments; and
• provide back-up coverage to Pretrial Services Intake Unit, as JAC-related responsibilities permit.

Some of the skills, knowledge and abilities needed:

• Effective and concise written and oral communication;
• knowledge of investigative and fact-gathering techniques;
• ability to observe, interpret, assess and record behavioral events;
• ability to organize and prioritize work;
• ability to take effective action and exercise sound judgment in emergency or crisis situations; and
• ability to interact with individuals from various socio-economic, ethnic and cultural backgrounds. 

Education
A BA/BS from an accredited college or university with a major in criminal justice, social or behavioral science or related field. You must obtain certification by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) as a Florida Crime Information Center/National Crime Information Center (FCIC/NCIC) operator within one month of appointment (CJIS certification). Required to maintain Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) certification to screen arrested youth, or obtain DJJ certification to screen arrested youth within 180 days of appointment. Both CJIS and DJJ certification trainings are provided in-house after employment; both certifications must remain current throughout employment.

Benefits
The Sarasota County Government benefit package includes health, dental and vision insurance; supplemental insurance (cancer, disability, and accident); Florida Retirement System membership; and paid time off.

Apply
Apply directly through Sarasota County Government Career Opportunities page. The posting will close April 10, 2020. You must complete the online application to be considered for this position. Cover letters are encouraged.

Position Type: Contractual
Position Available: Immediately
Hourly Rate: $75 / hour for therapy ($25 - $50 for court appearance)

The Twelfth Judicial Circuit is accepting applications from licensed mental health therapists (LCSW, LMHC, Psy.D, Ph.D) for clinical counseling services for its Behavioral Health Court. This court is also locally known as Mental Health Court. The provider will be responsible for providing the counseling services in its own office which must be located in Sarasota County. Provider will be an independent contractual service provider with the Court. Qualified individuals will be placed on an approved list and will be referred appropriate cases on an as needed basis by the Health Care Court Administrator

Duties include but are not limited to:

• Regularly scheduled individual meetings (no more than twice monthly absent court approval otherwise) per client
• Evaluations, assessments and counseling of Behavioral Health Court clients
• Conduct group sessions as necessary at Treatment Court Office
• Regular consultation with Health Care Court Administrator
• Attendance at court hearings as necessary
• Procurement of medical release in order to share information related to the client with the Health Care Court Administrator for use in the court proceeding
• Documentation of all evaluations, progress notes, as requested by Health Care Court Administrator
• Commitment to see the client for the duration of the court case absent significant unforeseen circumstances
• Sign an agreement memorializing these duties and the payment arrangements

Payment as Follows:

• The Court will pay $75 per hour of therapy (including any necessary documentation associated with the therapy) for two sessions per month per client. A client may receive more counseling if approved by the Court. A counselor may utilize a client’s insurance if the client has insurance and the counselor prefers to do so; however, the Court will not pay the hourly rate if insurance is also billed.
• The Court will pay $75 for each initial evaluation and assessment. This may require a visit to the Sarasota County Jail.
• The Court will pay $50 for a live court appearance and/or $25 for a telephonic court appearance, with discretion to be determined by the court.
• The Court will pay $75 per hour for group therapy (including any necessary documentation associated with the therapy).

Services will be invoiced on a monthly basis outlining days and hours worked, including backup documentation for clients served and services provided. Due to federal grant guidelines, these contractual counseling services contracts will be awarded on an annual basis and must be renewed annually. All applicants are further advised that the Additional Contract Provisions, “Attachment A”, are required to be included in all contracts.

To Apply

Please read the 2018 Selection and Submission Criteria.  

The Court reserves the right to limit the number of counselors participating and/or add counselors based upon special needs or location. All applicants will be subject to criminal background checks on an annual basis.

Contract award is subject to FDLE JAG Program Standard Conditions and additional Federal Grant Requirements (2 CFR Part 200), see attached.