Investigator - Hampton

Indigent Defense Commission; Hampton (VA); On-site; USD 54,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Indigent Defense Commission in Hampton is seeking an Investigator to support the Hampton Public Defender's Office. The role involves interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and coordinating with attorneys to build thorough case investigations.

Applicants should have a high school diploma or equivalent, excellent written and oral communication, and a valid driver’s license. The position may require evenings, weekends, and field visits as investigations demand.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Excellent written communication.
• Valid driver’s license and vehicle.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Experience using Microsoft Office products and internet research tools.
• Oral and written communication skills required.
• Draft written reports of case investigations for attorneys.

Responsibilities

• Conduct interviews of witnesses and defendants to gather information for cases.
• Gather documents, take photographs and measurements, and serve subpoenas.
• Visit crime scenes to take measurements, drawings, and photographs.
• Testify in court as needed to support attorney.
• Interact with the public defender team and clients with professionalism.

Skills

Excellent written communication

Oral communication

Interpersonal skills

Time management

Teamwork in fast-paced environment

Report writing

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Internet research tools

Job description

Title: Investigator - Hampton

State Role Title: Investig and Legal Support II

Hiring Range: $59,944.00 + State Benefits

Agency: Indigent Defense Commission

Location: HAMPTON 325

Agency Website: www.vadefenders.org

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

The Virginia Indigent Defense Commission (VIDC) is now accepting applications for the position of Investigator in the Hampton Public Defender's Office. The office is seeking a self-motivated individual to perform investigative work for public defense cases. The VIDC is dedicated to protecting and defending the rights and dignity of our clients through zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy. The Investigator reports to the Chief Public Defender of the Hampton Office and is employed at-will.

Duties:

This position is responsible for conducting interviews of all relevant witnesses and defendants to gain relevant information aiding in the preparation of cases and will appear in court as needed. Additional duties include gathering documents, taking photographs and measurements, serving subpoenas, and any other necessary steps resulting in a thorough investigation as assigned by the attorney. The investigator's role also involves venturing into the field and engaging in face-to-face interactions with individuals to gather vital information. The position is required to have close interaction and build rapport with members of the public defender team and reports to the attorney handling each case. Investigators may also visit crime scenes to take measurements, make drawings and photograph the area. Testimony before the courts to provide information for the attorneys may be required. Visiting incarcerated clients and witnesses is required. Familiarity with electronic media, body camera evidence, social media, and similar platforms is essential. Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, as investigations require.

The IDC is committed to inclusive hiring and dedicated to diversity in our workforce. We encourage and welcome qualified applicants of all identities, cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.

Minimum Qualifications

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position, or prior experience in investigation.
• Excellent written communication skills.
• A valid driver’s license and vehicle to travel wherever the investigation requires.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Experience using Microsoft Office products and internet research tools.
• The ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing is also required.
• Ability to communicate and interact with the public and office colleagues.
• Ability to develop and maintain skills in time management and organization as well as work independently and collaboratively in a team-driven environment.
• Plan and conduct investigations in defense of clients charged with criminal offenses, including client and witness interviews, scene investigation, social media research, and review of cell phone data. with other digital evidence.
• Draft written reports of case investigation for attorneys.
• Belief in the presumption of innocence, concern about protecting the Constitutional rights of every person.
• Professional desire to serve underprivileged individuals.

Additional Considerations

• Candidates who are bilingual in English and Spanish will be strongly considered.
• Experience working with marginalized communities will be considered.
• Background in investigative journalism or media reporting.
• Familiarity with the City of Hampton will be considered.

Eligibility, Background Checks, & Other Requirements

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a fingerprint-based criminal background check. Being authorized to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment. IDC uses the E-Verify system and does not provide sponsorship. Applications for this position must be submitted electronically through this website. Reasonable accommodations are available to applicants if requested, during the application and/or interview process. This position qualifies for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) depending on your type of loan.

Contact Information

Name: Ashley Washington

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.