Investigator - PDD Boston & Roxbury

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Boston, MA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Public Defender Division of Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is seeking an Investigator for the Roxbury Defenders Unit (RDU). This role involves conducting criminal defense investigations and aiding in trial preparation for CPCS Trial Attorneys in Municipal, District, and Superior Court cases within Suffolk County. Investigators are integral to the defense team, assisting in developing defense strategies for indigent individuals charged with criminal offenses by interviewing witnesses, documenting crime scenes, and providing court testimony. The position is based in the RDU but will also support the Boston Office and cover cases throughout Suffolk County. CPCS is committed to fighting for equal justice and human dignity, supporting clients' legal and life goals through zealous advocacy and promoting just public policy. The agency embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion as core values, aiming to ensure its staff represents a broad range of human differences and experiences, providing a respectful and supportive work climate, and promoting the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS provides legal representation when required by the state or federal constitution or statute for individuals who cannot afford an attorney, covering a wide range of case types including criminal, delinquency, family regulation, and mental health matters. Given the diverse client base, cultural competence and the ability to work with individuals from various backgrounds are essential.

Requirements

Associate degree with coursework in criminal justice, forensics, law or related area of study; a minimum of three years of experience in criminal defense investigations or a related investigative field which primarily involves the interviewing of persons, obtaining facts, inspection of records and writing reports; or an equivalent combination of education, experience, and skills;
Must possess a valid and active Massachusetts driver’s license and have full access to a dependable automobile;
Access to home internet access sufficient to work remotely.

Nice To Haves

A bachelor’s degree may be substituted for up to 2 years of investigatory experience.
Experience with Microsoft Office, internet databases, online searches and databases, and camera and video equipment;
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing;
Good analytical and time-management skills;
Bilingual abilities preferred;
Adjusting scheduled hours to work outside of regular business hours, e.g., on nights and weekends, is required with some regularity. Ability to be flexible due to unexpected and times sensitive issues requiring immediate attention is essential.

Responsibilities

Locating and interviewing cooperative and, at times, uncooperative witnesses, alleged victims, and clients;
Investigating crime scenes, commonly located in neighborhoods that have been designated as ‘high crime areas’ by local law enforcement agencies;
Preparing and presenting oral and/or written reports based upon interviews and/or information obtained during the course of the investigation;
Conducting surveillance;
Measuring, diagramming, and photographing locations where crimes may have taken place and/or any location appropriate to the defense strategy;
Utilizing computers for on-line access to the Registry of Motor Vehicles, public records, databases, social networking sites, and various online searches;
Keeping accurate records of all phases of the investigation, and being accountable for all aspects of the investigation;
Testifying in court as needed;
Networking and maintaining personal contact with individuals in various agencies, including, but not limited to, police departments, courts, state agencies, private sector agencies, and others to facilitate access to information necessary to the defense of a case;
Reviewing and analyzing police reports and witness statements;
Maintaining open lines of communication with attorneys as to investigative updates and case strategy and meeting all deadlines associated with cases;
Maintaining professional and productive relationships with attorneys;
Evaluating individuals and factual situations to aid the attorney in preparing and presenting a defense to the criminal charges;
Advising attorneys regarding changes and developments in investigative tools and techniques;
Developing familiarity with Massachusetts criminal laws and rules of criminal procedure;
Serving summonses on witnesses and document record keepers;
Arranging timely appearance of witnesses at court by keeping them “on call” and when necessary providing transportation for clients and/or witnesses to court or other facilities;
Preparing exhibits for trials and hearings;
Ability to work independently and outside of normal business hours as needed;
Participating in training programs for attorneys, as well as investigators; and,
Other duties as assigned.