Carmen B. Williams
Chesterfield,Virginia
Summary
Highly organized and empathetic professional with a proven record in procedural coordination and victim advocacy, seeking to leverage combined expertise at the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). Skilled in developing and managing agency procedures, providing confidential and effective support to individuals affected by crime or trauma, and navigating complex government processes. Committed to empowering victims while ensuring timely and consistent procedural updates to meet agency goals.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice
Richmond, VA
03.2022 - Current
- Promote victim rights and facilitate victim notification processes to ensure department-wide compliance and effective communication, consistent with department goals.
- Update and maintain agency victims' rights materials, including website content, to provide accessible and current information.
- Represent the interests of victims during the resident review process, contributing to a more victim-centered approach within the Department.
- Lead language access initiatives, overseeing the translation of legal and required documents to improve communication with limited English proficiency individuals.
- Provide strategic recommendations to the Policy Division to enhance the Department’s mission efficiency and effectiveness.
Member of the Virginia Parole Board
Richmond, VA
01.2022 - 03.2022
- Facilitated mission-critical tasks for Chairman of Parole Board, enhancing public safety decision-making.
- Collaborated with Victim Services staff to improve service notification for victims and families.
- Contributed to strategic decisions by providing essential support to Parole Board leadership.
- Streamlined access to resources for victims by partnering with service staff.
Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance
Richmond, VA
01.2008 - 02.2022
- Developed and implemented Project for Empowerment of Survivors, delivering trauma-informed legal information to thousands in Virginia.
- Managed language access for PES, offering direct legal advocacy and translation services to immigrant survivors.
- Directed statewide Family Violence and Sexual Assault Hotline, supervising staff and volunteers across nine years.
- Oversaw specialized hotlines for Prison Rape Elimination Act and LGBTQ+ Partner Abuse, providing vital support.
- Collaborated with Tahirih Justice Center and Virginia Poverty Law Center to enhance resources for Sexual and Domestic Violence Agencies.
- Advocated at state, federal, and international levels for legislation supporting victims of violence, including VAWA and I-VAWA.
Associate Tax Matters Accountant
01.2006 - 01.2008
- Provided specialized accounting services to Hispanic clients.
Legal Assistant and Assistant Manager
01.2001 - 01.2005
- Managed immigration, family, and criminal law cases, filed petitions with USCIS, conducted legal research, and interviewed clients.
Education
Master’s degree - International Legal Studies
American University-Washington College of Law
Washington, D.C.01.2000
Law degree -
University of San Martin de Porres
Peru01.1985
Skills
- Procedural Development
- Victim Advocacy
- Legal & System Knowledge
- Communication & Consensus Building
- Team Collaboration
- Knowledge of Virginia’s Legislative Process
- Experience in the Criminal Justice System
Languages
- English
- Spanish
Knowledge And Training
- Knowledge of Government Processes: Demonstrated understanding of government processes and procedures, including the functions of state agencies.
- Knowledge of Virginia's Legislative Process: Experience or training related to how Virginia legislation is introduced, amended, and passed.
- Experience in the Criminal Justice System: Familiarity with the Virginia criminal justice system and judicial processes.
Timeline
Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice
03.2022 - Current
Member of the Virginia Parole Board
01.2022 - 03.2022
Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance
01.2008 - 02.2022
Associate Tax Matters Accountant
01.2006 - 01.2008
Legal Assistant and Assistant Manager
01.2001 - 01.2005
Master’s degree - International Legal Studies
American University-Washington College of Law
Law degree -
University of San Martin de Porres