Investigator

Defender Association of Philadelphia•Philadelphia, PA

4h•Onsite

About The Position

The Federal Community Defender Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania is seeking a full-time Investigator in its Trial Unit. The Federal Community Defender Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (the FCDO) provides representation to persons accused of crimes against the United States who are unable to afford private counsel. The FCDO represents indigent persons charged with federal crimes in the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, which encompasses nine counties in southeastern Pennsylvania. The Investigator provides investigative and litigation support for criminal cases pending in federal court. Under the direction of assigned counsel, the Investigator pursues leads and defense theories and assists in developing case strategy. The Investigator may also assist with identifying and coordinating client access to treatment programs, housing resources, and vocational or educational services, and may help maintain resource lists and stay informed on relevant developments in areas such as substance use, mental health, and reentry.

Requirements

Familiarity with legal processes and social media platforms
Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Word, Outlook, and related software
A bachelor’s degree, preferably in Criminal Justice, Social Work, or a related discipline
Three or more years of responsible investigative or similar experience in the functional areas described in the “Position” section
A valid driver’s license, vehicle, and insurance

Nice To Haves

Experience managing electronic discovery
Proficiency or fluency in Spanish or another language
Familiarity with tools such as Accurint, Excel, TrialDirector, LexisNexis, and CLEAR

Responsibilities

Locating and interviewing witnesses and preparing detailed, accurate memoranda of interviews
Photographing and/or sketching relevant locations, including crime scenes
Reviewing, organizing, and analyzing discovery materials, including electronic data
Locating and retrieving public and private records, including criminal, medical, court, and social media records
Assisting attorneys at hearings and trials by preparing witnesses, coordinating exhibits and testimony, supporting digital presentations, and testifying when necessary
Serving subpoenas and notifying witnesses of court appearances
Conducting background investigations for sentencing purposes, including gathering medical, psychological, and other mitigation-related records
Assisting in the preparation of sentencing presentations, including written and multimedia submissions
Assisting with identifying and coordinating client access to treatment programs, housing resources, and vocational or educational services
Helping maintain resource lists and stay informed on relevant developments in areas such as substance use, mental health, and reentry