Investigator - Arlington

Virginia Information Technologies Agency • Arlington, VA

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Virginia Indigent Defense Commission (VIDC) is seeking a self-motivated individual to perform investigative work for public defense cases in the Arlington Public Defender's Office. The VIDC is dedicated to protecting and defending the rights and dignity of clients through zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy. The Investigator reports to the Chief Public Defender of the Arlington Office and is employed at-will. In addition to the listed salary, there is a 25.5% local salary supplement, which is discretionary and subject to yearly approval by Arlington County. This supplement does not affect retirement benefits.

Requirements

• 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.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to communicate and interact with the public and office colleagues.
• Ability to develop and maintain skills in time management and organization.
• Ability to 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.
• Familiarity with electronic media, body worn camera evidence, social media, and similar platforms is essential.
• Being authorized to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual in English and Spanish.
• Experience working with marginalized communities.

Responsibilities

• Conduct interviews of all relevant witnesses and defendants to gain relevant information aiding in the preparation of cases.
• Appear in court as needed.
• Gather documents, take photographs and measurements, and serve subpoenas.
• Perform any other necessary steps resulting in a thorough investigation as assigned by the attorney.
• Venture into the field and engage in face-to-face interactions with individuals to gather vital information.
• Interact closely with and build rapport with members of the public defender team.
• Report to the attorney handling each case.
• Visit crime scenes to take measurements, make drawings, and photograph the area.
• Provide testimony before the courts to provide information for the attorneys.
• Visit incarcerated clients and witnesses.
• 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 and other digital evidence.
• Draft written reports of case investigation for attorneys.

Benefits

• State Benefits
• Local Salary Supplement (discretionary, subject to yearly approval by Arlington County, does not affect retirement benefits)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) depending on your type of loan.

What This Job Offers

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