Investigator - Brockton/Fall River/Hyannis - Children & Family Law Division/Youth Advocacy Division

About the Role

The Children and Family Law and Youth Advocacy Divisions of the Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS), the Massachusetts public defender agency, are seeking two full-time Investigators. These newly created positions will conduct investigations and aid in trial preparation for CPCS Trial Attorneys in Care and Protection, Children Requiring Assistance, Guardianship of Minors, Delinquency, and Youthful Offender criminal cases in Plymouth, Bristol, and Barnstable County Juvenile Courts.

Investigators are key members of the defense team who assist in developing defense strategies for indigent persons by interviewing witnesses, investigating allegations made by the Department of Children and Families and the District Attorney’s Office, and documenting crime scenes. The role is critical to maintaining or reunifying families and keeping children out of the juvenile justice system.

The Investigator will be seated in one of the CAFL offices (Brockton, Fall River, or Hyannis) and will report to the Attorney in Charge of the office, working collaboratively with staff attorneys, investigators, and other team members.

Responsibilities

• Locate and interview cooperative and uncooperative witnesses and/or alleged victims.
• Investigate and document allegations made by the Department of Children and Families and the District Attorney’s Office, as well as crime scenes, including those in neighborhoods designated as ‘high crime areas’ by local law enforcement.
• Prepare and present oral and/or written reports based on interviews and information obtained during investigations.
• Conduct surveillance, measure, diagram, and photograph locations relevant to defense strategy.
• Utilize computers for online access to the Registry of Motor Vehicles, public records, databases, social networking sites, and other online searches.
• Maintain accurate records of all phases of the investigation and ensure accountability for all aspects of the investigation.
• Network and maintain contact with individuals in police departments, courts, state agencies, private sector agencies, and others to facilitate access to necessary information.
• Review and analyze police reports and witness statements.
• Maintain open communication with attorneys regarding investigative updates, case strategy, and deadlines.
• Evaluate individuals and factual situations to aid attorneys in preparing and presenting a defense.
• Advise attorneys on changes and developments in investigative tools and techniques.
• Develop familiarity with Massachusetts child welfare laws, criminal laws, and rules of criminal and civil procedure.
• Serve summonses on witnesses and document record keepers.
• Arrange timely appearance of witnesses at court, including providing transportation for clients and/or witnesses when necessary.
• Prepare exhibits for trials and hearings.
• Work independently and outside of normal business hours as needed.
• Participate in training programs for attorneys and investigators.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Associate degree with coursework in criminal justice, forensics, law, or a related field; OR a minimum of three years of experience in juvenile or criminal defense investigations or a related investigative field (e.g., interviewing persons, obtaining facts, inspecting records, writing reports).
• A bachelor’s degree may substitute for up to two years of investigatory experience.
• Valid and active Massachusetts driver’s license and full access to a dependable automobile.
• Home internet access sufficient to work remotely.
• Successful completion of a background check, including CORI and driving history reviews.

About the Organization

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is the Massachusetts state agency responsible for providing legal representation to indigent individuals in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as appeals and post-conviction proceedings. CPCS is committed to protecting constitutional and human rights through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and excellent legal representation.

The Children and Family Law Division (CAFL) ensures access to legal representation for indigent children, parents, and guardians in family regulation cases, including care and protection, termination of parental rights, and guardianship proceedings. CAFL employs a holistic, multidisciplinary approach, integrating attorneys, social workers, and support staff.

The Youth Advocacy Division (YAD) provides legal representation to indigent children in delinquency, youthful offender, and juvenile murder cases, offering leadership, training, and oversight to the juvenile defense bar in Massachusetts.

Office Locations

• Brockton: Located in downtown Brockton, near the Plymouth County Judicial Complex. Brockton is a diverse community with a large Cape Verdean population and is known as the "City of Champions."
• Fall River: A city in Bristol County with a population of approximately 94,000. Known for its historical textile industry, the city’s motto is "We'll Try" and is nicknamed "The Scholarship City."
• Hyannis: Situated on Cape Cod, Hyannis is a popular coastal destination with quaint villages, seafood shacks, and historic sites, including the John F. Kennedy Museum.

Values

• Courage: Advocating fearlessly for clients' rights and dignity.
• Accountability: Taking responsibility for actions and outcomes.
• Respect: Valuing the diverse circumstances and needs of clients and colleagues.
• Excellence: Striving for the highest standards in legal representation and advocacy.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Committing to equity, diversity, and inclusion in hiring, workplace culture, and client representation. CPCS aims to ensure its staff reflects a broad range of human differences and experiences while fostering a respectful and supportive work environment.