Investigator - Hampton

Virginia Information Technologies Agency•Hampton, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Virginia Indigent Defense Commission is hiring an Investigator for the Hampton Public Defender’s Office to conduct investigative work in support of public defense cases. The role involves gathering information to help attorneys prepare cases, conducting interviews, investigating crime scenes, collecting and reviewing evidence, and appearing in court when needed. The Investigator reports to the Chief Public Defender of the Hampton Office and to the attorney handling each case, and is employed at-will. The position requires fieldwork and face-to-face interactions with clients, witnesses, and members of the public. Investigators may visit incarcerated clients and witnesses, crime scenes, and other locations; take photographs and measurements; make drawings; gather documents; serve subpoenas; and take other steps assigned by attorneys to complete investigations. Testimony in court may be required. Familiarity with electronic media, body-camera evidence, social media, cell phone data, and other digital evidence is essential. The work may require a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends. The commission describes its mission as protecting and defending clients’ rights and dignity through zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy. It encourages applicants from diverse identities, cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. Employment is contingent on successfully completing a fingerprint-based criminal background check, and authorization to work in the United States is required. The position may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness depending on the applicant’s loan type.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent, or prior experience in investigation.
Excellent written communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Valid driver’s license and a vehicle for travel required by investigations.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
Experience using Microsoft Office products and internet research tools.
Ability to communicate and interact with the public and office colleagues.
Ability to develop and maintain time-management and organizational skills, and to work independently and collaboratively.
Belief in the presumption of innocence and concern for protecting every person’s constitutional rights.
Professional desire to serve underprivileged individuals.
Familiarity with electronic media, body-camera evidence, social media, and similar platforms.
Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, as investigations require.
Authorization to work in the United States.
Successful completion of a fingerprint-based criminal background check.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual ability in English and Spanish.
Experience working with marginalized communities.
Background in investigative journalism or media reporting.
Familiarity with the City of Hampton.

Responsibilities

Interview relevant witnesses and defendants to gather information for case preparation.
Plan and conduct investigations in defense of clients charged with criminal offenses.
Conduct client and witness interviews, scene investigations, social media research, and reviews of cell phone data and other digital evidence.
Gather documents, take photographs and measurements, serve subpoenas, and take other investigative steps assigned by attorneys.
Visit crime scenes to take measurements, make drawings, and photograph the area.
Visit incarcerated clients and witnesses.
Draft written reports of case investigations for attorneys.
Appear in court and provide testimony when required.
Build rapport and work closely with the public defender team and the attorney handling each case.
Work in the field and interact face-to-face with individuals to gather information.