Investigator - PDD Framingham

Commonwealth of Massachusetts • Framingham, MA

22h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Public Defender Division of Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is seeking an Investigator for its Framingham Office. This role involves conducting criminal defense investigations and assisting Trial Attorneys with trial preparation for cases in District and Superior Courts within Middlesex County. Investigators are integral to the defense team, contributing to strategy development for indigent clients by interviewing witnesses, documenting crime scenes, and providing court testimony. CPCS is committed to equal justice and human dignity, zealously advocating for clients' rights and promoting just public policy. The agency provides representation in a wide range of legal matters, including criminal, delinquency, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, and sexually dangerous person cases. CPCS values diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to ensure its staff reflects a broad range of human differences and experiences, fostering a respectful and supportive work environment.

Requirements

• Associate degree with coursework in criminal justice, forensics, law, or a related area of study.
• A minimum of three years of experience in criminal defense investigations or a related investigative field primarily involving interviewing persons, obtaining facts, inspection of records, and writing reports.
• An equivalent combination of education, experience, and skills.
• A valid and active Massachusetts driver's license.
• Full access to a dependable automobile.
• Access to home internet access sufficient to work remotely.
• 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.
• 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 time-sensitive issues requiring immediate attention is essential.
• Successful candidates will be subject to a background check including CORI and driving history reviews.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual abilities preferred.
• A bachelor's degree may be substituted for up to 2 years of investigatory experience.

Responsibilities

• Locating and interviewing cooperative and uncooperative witnesses, alleged victims, and clients.
• Investigating crime scenes, which may be located in high-crime areas.
• Preparing and presenting oral and/or written reports based on interviews and investigation findings.
• Conducting surveillance.
• Measuring, diagramming, and photographing crime scenes or other relevant locations.
• Utilizing computers for online 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.
• Testifying in court as needed.
• Networking and maintaining contact with individuals in various agencies (police departments, courts, state agencies, private sector) to facilitate access to information.
• Reviewing and analyzing police reports and witness statements.
• Maintaining open communication with attorneys regarding investigative updates and case strategy, and meeting all deadlines.
• Maintaining professional and productive relationships with attorneys.
• Evaluating individuals and factual situations to aid attorneys in preparing and presenting a defense.
• Advising attorneys on 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 providing transportation for clients and/or witnesses to court or other facilities when necessary.
• Preparing exhibits for trials and hearings.
• Working independently and outside of normal business hours as needed.
• Participating in training programs for attorneys and investigators.
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Support for clients in achieving their legal and life goals.
• Zealous advocacy for the rights of individuals.
• Promotion of just public policy.
• Representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings.
• A work climate that is respectful and supports success.
• Promotion of the dignity and well-being of all staff members.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree