Investigator Specialist I

City of Atlanta•Atlanta, GA

2d•$56,000 - $63,250

About The Position

The Public Defender Investigator Specialist plays a critical role in the defense of individuals charged with criminal offenses who cannot afford private legal counsel. The position involves conducting independent confidential and thorough investigations in support of the defense team. The Investigator Specialist gathers information and documents for analysis to assist attorneys in developing defense strategies and protecting client’s constitutional rights.

Requirements

Knowledge of penal codes, welfare and institutional codes, and court procedures to ascertain investigative needs
Fundamental knowledge of conducting investigations.
Strong communication and relationship skills and can build partnerships with key stakeholders
Demonstrates ability to work in a deadline driven environment and ability manage multiple priorities.
Resourceful when collecting and developing facts and other pertinent data.
Demonstrates proficiency in the use of GCIC; Court Case Management System; ability to objectively analyze and evaluate facts, evidence and related information.
Able to obtain the cooperation and confidence of others.
Skills to analyze and evaluate data collected during investigations; interact and communicate orally in a courteous and effective manner with law enforcement officials and members of the public; communicate effectively in writing, including preparation of records and reports; plan, organize, assign and review the work of other investigative personnel including the preparation of records and reports.

Responsibilities

Responsible for conducting investigations in criminal, traffic, and code enforcement cases.
Assists defense attorneys by participating in investigations connected with criminal cases before the municipal court
Collect and preserve evidence including photographs, video evidence, 911 calls, medical records and public records.
Serves subpoenas and other legal documents to individuals in accordance with court rules and procedures.
May prepare diagrams and photographs or trial exhibits in anticipation of trial.
Conduct field investigation related to locating and interviewing witnesses, victims, law enforcement, and others related to the case.
Maintains records on all investigations; this includes the contacts made, findings of evidence, collected statements, description of scenes, analysis of cases and other information relevant to the defense; prepares investigative reports and summaries for attorneys and case files and case management system.
Performs administrative work in the unit related to client case management.
Maintains video evidence management files and other media files.
Performs other related duties as required.
Uses available technology and its application to gather evidence and develop defense cases.
Values teamwork and demonstrates the willingness to collaborate with other team members.
Testify in court as needed regarding investigative work and findings.
Assists and participates in training, workshops, seminars, meetings, and events which may occur outside normal hours of operation.