Investigator I/II - Claims

Los Angeles City Attorney's Office • Los Angeles, CA

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Office of the Los Angeles City Attorney's Claims Investigations Section investigates and processes all personal injury and property damage claims filed against the City of Los Angeles. In addition, the Section is responsible for investigation and support of matters that are assigned to attorneys involved in litigation. The Office of the Los Angeles City Attorney is one of the nation's largest municipal law offices, with over 1,000 legal professionals, including 500 attorneys. The Office provides the City of Los Angeles with the highest caliber of legal services, ranging from prosecuting criminal misdemeanors and playing a leading role in criminal justice reform to advising on homelessness initiatives, defending civil lawsuits and claims, and bringing civil enforcement actions in the name of the People of the State of California. Guided by an overarching commitment to integrity, accountability and transparency, we find great meaning in the work we do and the services we provide. We seek collaborative team players who understand that fulfilling our mission is key to making a positive impact.

Requirements

• Experience in civil claims, personal injury and property damage investigation and evaluation is required.
• Knowledge of civil investigation procedures and evidence rules and requirements is also required.
• A valid Class “C” California Driver’s License.
• Must be proficient in the operation of a personal computer, including proficiency in Microsoft Word.
• The selected applicant should be self-motivated, a quick learner, exercise independent judgment, and work with minimum supervision.
• Excellent organizational skills, and the ability to work well with other employees of this office and personnel from other agencies.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality is mandatory.
• Applicants must be able to lift boxes (up to 25 lbs) with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

• A minimum of 2 years’ experience in civil claims investigation and evaluation is preferred.
• Experience as an investigator.
• Knowledge of criminal investigative procedures and rules of evidence.
• Knowledge in evaluating injury and property damage matters.
• Experience testifying in court.

Responsibilities

• Gathering evidence and information for general liability claims and lawsuits filed against the City of Los Angeles
• Conducting complex interviews of witnesses and claimants, and preparing clear witness statements
• Communicating with claimants and constituents in an effective and professional manner
• Obtaining and evaluating court documents, department and police reports, traffic accident reports, and photos
• Writing detailed investigation reports and findings
• Evaluating the validity of claims to determine liability, and negotiating settlements
• Making small claims court appearances
• Filing and maintaining orderly claim files, and updating the claims database in CityLaw
• Handling a high volume of assignments from the Chief Investigator, attorneys and risk management staff
• Conducting both moving and stationary surveillance using video equipment, taking photographs, measurements and drawing scale diagrams
• Adjusting auto liability damage and bodily injury claims
• Conducting follow-up investigations for attorneys involved in litigated matters
• Obtaining public records, medical records or evidence for use by Liability Section attorneys
• Testifying in depositions
• Following Department Operating Procedures and meeting strict deadlines
• Other duties as assigned

Benefits

• Employees participate in the Los Angeles City Employees’ Retirement System (LACERS), which includes mandatory employee pension contributions through payroll deduction.
• The City also contributes toward the employee’s retirement benefit.
• Contribution rates are established by the applicable retirement system and may vary based on employee classification, membership status, and other factors.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed