Investigator (Criminal Practice)

Neighborhood Defender Service Inc•Detroit, MI

2d•$53,255 - $90,667•Onsite

About The Position

The Investigator is an integral part of the defense team who demonstrates a commitment to serving marginalized people and communities. The Investigator will help shape our present and future—contributing to a collaborative environment and culture of excellence in alignment with our values. At NDS Detroit, how we represent our clients is as important as individual case outcomes, and our ideal Investigator approaches the cultivation of a positive office culture and the representation of indigent clients with equal rigor and commitment.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience and commitment to criminal justice, indigent defense, racial equity and social justice issues working in Wayne County communities or similar metropolitan areas is strongly desired.
Doggedness and resilience combined with people and situations.
An ability to quickly build relationships across varying identities, income levels, races and ethnicities.
A high level of organizational and administrative skills to handle a high caseload and multi‐task in a very fast‐paced environment.
Clear and effective communication skills, both orally and in writing.
Energy, enthusiasm, and ingenuity to gather and develop information from a broad spectrum of sources, ranging from community residents to government agencies.
The ability to work cooperatively in a team.
An associate or bachelor's degree.
Candidates must have access to a reliable and insured vehicle and have a valid driver’s license.
Knowledge and experience with Microsoft Office Suite to include Microsoft Word and OneDrive.

Nice To Haves

Minimally, one year of experience in criminal defense investigations or investigative licensure.
Bi‐lingual (Spanish or Arabic) individuals are encouraged to apply.
Applicants with a passion for criminal defense and criminal justice, that may not have a background in investigations are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Embrace NDS' philosophy of client-centered, holistic representation, providing vigorous investigative support to the residents of Wayne County.
Work closely with attorneys, social workers, and client advocates to prepare clients for hearings and trials.
Meet with clients to gather information relevant to defense theory and case planning.
Identify, locate, and interview witnesses, including hostile or reluctant witnesses.
Visit, photograph, and diagram crime scenes and other relevant locations.
Collect, preserve, and document evidence per proper chain-of-custody procedures.
Obtain documents, records, and reports from law enforcement, agencies, and other sources via subpoenas, FOIA requests, and direct outreach.
Prepare, issue, and serve subpoenas.
Prepare, issue, and execute affidavit.
Conduct background research on witnesses and other case-relevant parties.
Analyze discovery materials to identify investigative leads and inconsistencies.
Prepare clear, timely investigative reports and trial exhibits.
Testify credibly at trials, hearings, and depositions.
Document all investigative work in the case management system.
Contribute to a collaborative, respectful team culture.
Apply working knowledge of the criminal court system and evidence documentation standards.
Communicate effectively, both written and verbal, with clients, witnesses, and colleagues.
Bring sharp observation skills and attention to detail to all casework.
Maintain high ethical standards — approaching each case open-mindedly and without judgment and protecting clients' rights.