0000003919.PUBLIC DEFENDER INVESTIGATOR II.PUBLIC DEFENDER

About the Role

Investigates felony and misdemeanor charges filed against individuals represented by the Public Defender's Office.

Responsibilities

• Assists the assigned public defender in gathering pertinent data, identifying significant factors, and recognizing solutions for moderate to complex or specialized cases.
• Locates and develops evidence to assist in plea negotiations.
• Works independently in planning and organizing work as part of a trial or section and in preparing cases for disposition.
• Assists in reconstructing events, sequences, and time elements in preparation of criminal cases.
• Locates, interviews, and notifies witnesses of trial dates by serving subpoenas, summons, and writs.
• Coordinates transportation and lodging of trial witnesses and checks the background of witnesses that may be used during trial.
• Collects and prepares physical evidence for trial and reviews various reports such as medical, autopsy, and forensic reports as part of the investigative process.
• Assists attorneys during the jury selection and trial phases.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in criminology, criminal justice, social or behavioral science, or a job-related field of study.
• Two (2) years of criminal or legal investigative experience.
• Must possess a valid Texas Driver’s License and a good driving record; must provide a copy of a 10-year driving history.
• Must maintain a good driving record and remain in compliance with Article II, Subdivision II of Chapter 90 of the Dallas County Code.
• May require TCLEOSE certification as a Basic Peace Officer.

Skills

• Skilled in the use of standard software applications.
• Ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing, and establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, departments, and the general public.
• Knowledge of investigator/investigative techniques, penal codes, welfare and institutional codes, and court procedures to ascertain investigative needs.
• Knowledge of methods and techniques of screening, evaluating, and preparing evidence and exhibits for trial.
• Skill in interviewing.

Physical/Environmental Requirements

Standard office environment 50% of the time, with the remainder spent in a typical law enforcement street environment.