Investigator - Halifax

Virginia Information Technologies Agency•Halifax, VA

2d•$59,944

About The Position

The Virginia Indigent Defense Commission (VIDC) is now accepting applications for the position of Investigator in the Halifax Public Defender's Office. The office is seeking a self-motivated individual to perform investigative work for public defense cases. The VIDC is dedicated to protecting and defending the rights and dignity of our clients through zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy. The Investigator reports to the Chief Public Defender of the Halifax Office and is employed at-will. Duties: This position is responsible for conducting interviews of all relevant witnesses and defendants to gain relevant information aiding in the preparation of cases and will appear in court as needed. Additional duties include gathering documents, taking photographs and measurements, serving subpoenas, and any other necessary steps resulting in a thorough investigation as assigned by the attorney. The investigator's role also involves venturing into the field and engaging in face-to-face interactions with individuals to gather vital information. The position is required to have close interaction and build rapport with members of the public defender team and reports to the attorney handling each case. Investigators may also visit crime scenes to take measurements, make drawings and photograph the area. Testimony before the courts to provide information for the attorneys may be required. Visiting incarcerated clients and witnesses is required. Familiarity with electronic media, body camera evidence, social media, and similar platforms is essential. Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, as investigations require. The IDC is committed to inclusive hiring and dedicated to diversity in our workforce. We encourage and welcome qualified applicants of all identities, cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.

Requirements

A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position, or prior experience in investigation.
Excellent written communication skills.
A valid driver’s license and vehicle to travel wherever the investigation requires.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
Experience using Microsoft Office products and internet research tools.
The ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing is also required.
Ability to communicate and interact with the public and office colleagues.
Ability to develop and maintain skills in time management and organization as well as work independently and collaboratively in a team-driven environment.
Belief in the presumption of innocence, concern about protecting the constitutional rights of every person.
Professional desire to serve underprivileged individuals.

Nice To Haves

Prior investigative experience in a public defender office will be strongly considered.
Candidates who are bilingual in English and Spanish will be strongly considered.
Experience working with marginalized communities will be considered.
Background in investigative journalism or media reporting.

Responsibilities

Conducting interviews of all relevant witnesses and defendants to gain relevant information aiding in the preparation of cases and will appear in court as needed.
Gathering documents, taking photographs and measurements, serving subpoenas, and any other necessary steps resulting in a thorough investigation as assigned by the attorney.
Venturing into the field and engaging in face-to-face interactions with individuals to gather vital information.
Close interaction and build rapport with members of the public defender team and reports to the attorney handling each case.
Visiting crime scenes to take measurements, make drawings and photograph the area.
Testimony before the courts to provide information for the attorneys may be required.
Visiting incarcerated clients and witnesses is required.
Familiarity with electronic media, body camera evidence, social media, and similar platforms is essential.
Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, as investigations require.
Plan and conduct investigations in defense of clients charged with criminal offenses, including client and witness interviews, scene investigation, social media research, and review of cell phone data. with other digital evidence.
Draft written reports of case investigation for attorneys.