Capital Habeas Investigator

United States Courts; Los Angeles (CA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan (Thrift Savings Plan)

Telework up to two days per week

Job summary

Federal Public Defender’s Office for the Central District of California is seeking a full-time Capital Habeas Investigator in Los Angeles. The CHU supports death-penalty defense through thorough fact and mitigation investigations, interviewing witnesses, and developing comprehensive case materials.

The role requires strong organizational skills, ability to work independently and in teams, and proficiency with OSINT and legal document preparation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; extensive experience may substitute.
• Experience with OSINT and open-source investigations.
• Excellent written and oral communication; ability to manage caseloads and meet deadlines.
• Spanish language ability preferred but not required, with travel anticipated.

Responsibilities

• Review and analyze discovery materials and case files.
• Develop investigation plans based on file review and case strategy.
• Identify, locate, and interview witnesses; document findings in reports.
• Assist with hearings and testify as needed.

Skills

OSINT investigation

Interviewing witnesses

Mitigation evidence development

Spanish language (preferred)

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Tools

Forensic discovery applications

Job description

Job Details for Capital Habeas Investigator

Court Name/Organization California Central Federal Public Defender

Overview of the Position The Federal Public Defender’s Office for the Central District of California is accepting applications for full-time investigator positions in its Capital Habeas Unit (CHU), stationed in Los Angeles, California. The CHU advocates for the constitutional rights and inherent dignity of indigent persons sentenced to death. We provide the highest quality representation in post-conviction proceedings through diversity of experience, collaborative and thorough case development, focused litigation strategies, and skilled courtroom advocacy.

CHU investigators are critical contributors in the preparation, development, and advancement of assigned cases. This position requires excellent communication skills, the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, and a thorough understanding of fact and mitigation investigation. Duties include, but are not limited to: Reviewing and analyzing discovery materials and voluminous case files; developing comprehensive investigation plans based on file review and case strategy; reviewing and requesting records; identifying, locating, and interviewing witnesses in a culturally competent manner; preparing clear, detailed, and comprehensive written reports of investigative findings; drafting declarations and other case-related documents and/or timelines; developing and maintaining effective working relationships with clients; assisting with hearings; testifying in court (as needed).

Qualifications

All applicants must have graduated from an accredited school with a bachelor’s degree. Extensive relevant experience may substitute a bachelor’s degree. A background in law, social work, or mental health is a plus. Excellent organizational skills and a high level of computer literacy are required. Applicants must be able to manage an assigned caseload and set priorities to meet critical deadlines. Applicants must be proficient in conducting OSINT investigation to creatively develop both fact and mitigation evidence. Adaptation to dynamic cyber environments by keeping skill sets current is a requirement of the position. Familiarity with forensic discovery applications is a plus. The ability to speak, read, and write in Spanish is strongly preferred, but not required. This position may call for extensive and overnight travel. Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license and a working vehicle with appropriate insurance. Varying hours including nights, weekends, and holidays may be required.

A background investigation is a condition of employment. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents seeking citizenship as described .

Selection Criteria: Successful applicants demonstrate a commitment to the defense of death sentenced individuals; must have excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills; must be able to develop a rapport with people of different backgrounds; can work independently and take initiative; are capable of analyzing and communicating complex information; have the drive to broaden the depths of their knowledge; and work well in teams.

Employee Benefits

This is a full-time, at-will position. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience and is subject to direct deposit. After successful completion of a probationary period, eligible employees may elect to telework up to two days per week, subject to certain conditions. Benefits include health and life insurance, retirement, and a Thrift Savings Plan. For more information on benefits, see the U.S. Courts website .

The federal Judiciary is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.