Investigator, NDS Texas

Neighborhood Defender Service•San Marcos, TX

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Investigator is an integral part of the defense team who demonstrates a commitment to serving marginalized people and communities. The Investigator will help shape our present and future—contributing to a collaborative environment and culture of excellence in alignment with our values. At NDS Texas, how we represent our clients is as important as individual case outcomes, and our ideal Investigator approaches the cultivation of a positive office culture and the representation of indigent clients with equal rigor and commitment.

Requirements

A demonstrated commitment to criminal justice, indigent defense, racial equity, and social justice issues, and a substantive understanding of the biases impacting our clients.
An ability to quickly build relationships with people of varying identities, income levels, races and ethnicities.
A high level of organization and administrative skills to handle a high caseload and multi-task in a very fast-paced environment.
Clear and effective communication skills, both orally and in writing.
Energy, enthusiasm, and ingenuity to gather and develop information from a broad spectrum of sources, ranging from community residents to county, state, and federal agencies.
An ability to work cooperatively in a team.
Must possess the ability and readiness to quickly learn and use various industry relevant computer software.
Knowledge and experience with Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe, and a basic knowledge of computer usage in a network environment.
Candidates must have access to a reliable and insured vehicle and have a valid driver’s license.
Apply knowledge and experience with forensically sound evidence-gathering and handling procedures to retrieve, handle, analyze, and preserve such data in accordance with those standards utilizing write-blocking technology. Must be familiar with chain-of-custody requirements necessary for the admissibility of evidence in court and competent to fulfill those requirements.
Must be comfortable working with clients in various settings to include residences, court, and/or jail.
Bachelor’s or associate degree.

Nice To Haves

Spanish language fluency is preferred.
Minimally, one year of experience in criminal defense investigations or investigative licensure.
Applicants with a passion for criminal defense and criminal justice, that may not have a background in investigations are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Embrace NDS' philosophy of client-centered, holistic representation, providing vigorous investigative support to the residents of Hays County.
Work closely with attorneys, social workers, and client advocates to prepare clients for hearings and trials.
Meet with clients to gather information relevant to defense theory and case planning.
Identify, locate, and interview witnesses, including hostile or reluctant witnesses.
Visit, photograph, and diagram crime scenes and other relevant locations.
Collect, preserve, and document evidence per proper chain-of-custody procedures.
Obtain documents, records, and reports from law enforcement, agencies, and other sources via subpoenas, FOIA requests, and direct outreach.
Prepare, issue, and serve subpoenas.
Prepare, issue, and execute affidavit.
Conduct background research on witnesses and other case-relevant parties.
Analyze discovery materials to identify investigative leads and inconsistencies.
Prepare clear, timely investigative reports and trial exhibits.
Testify credibly at trials, hearings, and depositions.
Document all investigative work in the case management system.
Contribute to a collaborative, respectful team culture.
Apply working knowledge of the criminal court system and evidence documentation standards.
Communicate effectively, both written and verbally, with clients, witnesses, and colleagues.
Bring sharp observation skills and attention to detail to all casework.
Maintain high ethical standards — approaching each case open-mindedly and without judgment and protecting clients' rights.