04/09/2010 47150

PARDONS CASE SPECIALIST

DEFINITION: This is specialized professional casework in the review, processing, and presentation of applications for clemency (pardons and commutations) of inmates incarcerated in state correctional facilities within the Department of Corrections.

An employee in this job is located in central office and is responsible for reviewing applications for clemency to ensure compliance with administrative requirements, and for representing inmates upon request and in lieu of private representation before the Board of Pardons. Work also involves advising and assisting inmates in the preparation of clemency applications, gathering and analyzing case information, providing guidance and training to staff regarding clemency policy and procedures, and serving as the Department’s liaison with the Board of Pardons. Work is regulated by policies, regulations, and procedures, but requires independent judgment in interpreting rules and regulations, analyzing case material, and when preparing and presenting inmate clemency applications to the Board of Pardons. Work is performed with considerable independence under the general direction of an administrative supervisor and is reviewed for effectiveness and conformance to established policies and procedures through reports, meetings, and conferences.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Reviews and analyzes inmate prepared applications for clemency to ensure that the content is consistent with the Board of Pardons’ guidelines and that the proper administrative procedures are followed.

Represents inmate petitioners, upon request and in lieu of private legal representation, at public hearings before the Board of Pardons.

Travels to state correctional facilities to instruct staff and inmates in the procedures and rules for the submission of applications for clemency and the processing of commutation summaries.

Develops and revises the Department’s procedures for preparing, submitting and processing clemency requests.

Serves as the Department’s liaison with the Board of Pardons to include the collection, review, and delivery of additional information related to specific applications for clemency.

Establishes and maintains professional contacts with various judicial, legislative, and public agencies regarding clemency issues.

Researches and responds to requests from the community, family members, state officials, and other interested parties regarding clemency information.

Performs related duties as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of corrections principles and practices.

Knowledge of individual and group behavior of persons with criminal backgrounds.

Ability to interpret policies, rules, regulations, and procedures.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to communicate effectively orally.

Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Three years of professional experience in the field of behavioral sciences, education, social work, or counseling including one year of experience in a correctional institution or facility, and a bachelor’s degree;

                                                                                                                                                                  or

An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes one year of professional experience in the field of behavioral sciences, education, social work, or counseling in a correctional institution or facility.