Investigator, Trial Division
Job Location:
Houston, TX - USA
Monthly Salary:
Posted:
Application Deadline:
Vacancies:
Job Summary
- Position Description
Position Overview:
The Harris County Public Defenders Office is committed to providing high-quality client-centered representation to individuals accusedof criminal offenses who cannot afford counsel. Our investigators play a critical role in building strong defenses uncovering facts andsupporting holistic team-based advocacy for our clients. Investigators work closely with attorneys mitigation specialists and supportstaff to ensure thorough and effective representation at every stage of a case.Working collaboratively with attorneys and other investigators the Investigator is responsible for conducting comprehensiveinvestigations in criminal defense cases involving individuals accused of crimes in Harris County Texas. Investigators receive caseassignments and develop investigative strategies in coordination with defense counsel to support case preparation and trial advocacy.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Duties include locating interviewing and assessing witnesses conducting background investigations drafting affidavits andinvestigative summaries; collecting preserving and documenting evidence; and maintaining consistent communication with attorneysregarding investigative findings and case developments.
Investigators are also responsible for researching social media platformsobtaining and reviewing cell phone records coordinating forensic cell phone extractions organizing and charting relevant digitalevidence and serving subpoenas as needed.
The Investigator conducts field investigations including visiting alleged crime scenes canvassing neighborhoods and businessesphotographing and video-recording scenes taking measurements and locating and securing surveillance footage.
Additionalresponsibilities include retrieving discovery materials from law enforcement agencies and forensic laboratories traveling locally and outof town to interview witnesses and visiting jails prisons mental health facilities and other institutions to meet with clients andwitnesses.
Investigators regularly interact with clients and their family members and assist attorneys with witness preparation trial preparation andjury selection.
This position requires the ability to testify in court regarding investigative findings and procedures and to perform otherduties as assigned or needed in support of the offices mission and operations.
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
you need special services or accommodations please call or email.
This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and even when considered may not automatically disqualify the candidate.
- Requirements
Education and Experience:
A Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university recognized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (or equivalent accreditingbody) is required.
Or
In lieu of a bachelorsdegree four (4) years of investigative experience.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills are required.
- Effective organizational time management and problem-solving skills are required to successfully manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment while maintaining professionalism discretion and confidentiality.
- Ability to travel locally and out of town as needed in support of investigative responsibilities.
Licensure:
A valid drivers license is required. Candidates must obtain a valid Texas drivers license prior to the date of hire.
NOTE: Qualifying education experience knowledge and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation butONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. See Resumewill not be accepted for qualifications.
- Preferences
- Fluency in the Spanish language in speaking reading and writing.
- General Information
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:
Regular Full-time 40 hours per week
- Some weekend or nighttime hours may occasionally berequired.
- Hours will be discussed during departmental interview.
Salary:
Depends on qualifications
Based on 26 pay periods
Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.
Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.
