Investigator - PDD Framingham

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Framingham, MA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Public Defender Division of Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS), the Massachusetts public defender agency, is seeking an Investigator for its Framingham Office. This role is crucial for conducting criminal defense investigations and aiding in trial preparation for CPCS Trial Attorneys in District and Superior Court cases within Middlesex County. Investigators are integral members of the defense team, contributing to the development of defense strategies for indigent individuals charged with criminal offenses through activities such as interviewing witnesses, documenting crime scenes, and providing court testimony. CPCS is committed to fighting for equal justice and human dignity, supporting clients' legal and life goals, and zealously advocating for rights while promoting just public policy.

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
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 times sensitive issues requiring immediate attention is essential
The 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, 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
Other duties as assigned