Criminal Defense Investigator

United States Courts; Tyler (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas Eastern Federal Public Defender in Tyler, TX seeks a full-time Investigator to join our office. You will identify, locate, and interview witnesses; gather records and documents; confer with attorneys to pursue legal and factual issues; and interview clients and family members.

A working knowledge of the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, strong writing abilities, and computer skills are essential. Spanish language skills are valued but not required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; recent law school graduates encouraged.
• Ability to interview witnesses and collect evidence.
• Knowledge of Federal Sentencing Guidelines and legal terminology.
• Strong written communication and report writing skills.
• Working knowledge of the court system and available resources.
• Spanish language skills valued but not required.

Responsibilities

• Interview and locate witnesses and experts.
• Locate and gather records, reports, documents and other materials.
• Confer with attorneys to identify legal and factual issues.
• Review and analyze discovery; prepare legal documents.
• Maintain contact with clients and family members.

Skills

Interview witnesses

Legal terminology

Prepare written reports

Evidence evaluation

Federal sentencing guidelines

Computer skills

Spanish language skills

Education

High school diploma

Recent law school graduates encouraged

Tools

Office software

Internet research

Job description

Job Details for Criminal Defense Investigator

Court Name/Organization Texas Eastern Federal Public Defender

Overview of the Position The Federal Public Defender for the Eastern District of Texas seeks a full-time Investigator to join our Tyler, Texas office. The Office of the Federal Defender operates under authority of the Criminal Justice Act, 18 U.S.C. §3006A, to provide representation in federal criminal matters in the federal courts.Our investigators assist attorneys representing indigent clients accused of crimes in federal court. They identify, locate, and interview witnesses; locate and gather records, reports, documents and other factual materials; confer with attorneys to identify and pursue potential legal and factual issues; and interview and maintain contact with clients and family members. The investigators review and analyze discovery; serve subpoenas; have or develop a working knowledge of the Federal Sentencing Guidelines and other related duties as assigned.

Location Tyler, TX

Opening and Closing Dates 09/23/2026 - 10/23/2026

Appointment Type Permanent

Salary Not specified

Qualifications

Skills Required: The successful applicant will possess the ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with individuals and agencies that interact with the office, as well as have the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Must be able to conduct interviews, locate fact witnesses and experts. Must have the ability to prepare comprehensive, descriptive written reports. Applicants are expected to know how to screen, evaluate and prepare evidence and exhibits for evidentiary hearings; understand legal terminology; have a working knowledge of the court system; use available resources for locating individuals and relevant information. Must have current knowledge or have the ability to develop working knowledge of the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Must possess strong computer, Internet, office automation skills. Applicants having the ability to perform legal research, prepare legal documents, analyze legal decisions and opinions, and the ability to read and comprehend federal criminal statutes will be strongly considered. Spanish language skills valued, but not required.

Experience Requirements: This position is an entry level position. Must be a high school graduate or equivalent. Education above the high school level may be substituted for some experience. Recent law school graduates are encouraged to apply.

Employee Benefits

JSP 11 to JSP 14. Commensurate with experience and demonstrated ability. Position is subject to EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) participation for payment of net pay.

Background Checks: The selected candidate will be subject to a background check as a condition of employment. Employment will be considered provisional until the background check is complete. Candidate must be a citizen of the United States.

The federal Judiciary is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.