Investigator - Worcester - Children & Family Law Division/Youth Advocacy Division

CPCS is the Massachusetts state agency responsible for providing legal representation to indigent clients 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. The agency is committed to protecting constitutional and human rights through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and excellent legal representation.

About the Role

The Children and Family Law (CAFL) and Youth Advocacy Divisions (YAD) of CPCS are seeking a full-time Investigator for their Worcester offices. This newly created position 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 Worcester County Juvenile Courts.

Investigators are key members of the defense team who assist in developing defense strategies by interviewing witnesses, investigating allegations made by the Department of Children and Families and the District Attorney’s Office, and documenting crime scenes. The Investigator will be seated in the CAFL Worcester Office and will report to the Attorney in Charge of the CAFL Worcester Office, while also working under the direction of the YAD Worcester Attorney in Charge and the Supervising Investigator.

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 Worcester County District Attorney’s Office, as well as crime scenes, including those in neighborhoods designated as ‘high crime areas’ by law enforcement.
• Prepare and present oral and/or written reports based on interviews and information obtained during investigations.
• Conduct surveillance and document locations relevant to defense strategy through measuring, diagramming, and photographing.
• Utilize computers for online access to public records, databases, social networking sites, and various online searches (e.g., Registry of Motor Vehicles).
• Maintain accurate records of all investigation phases and ensure accountability for all aspects of the investigation.
• Network and maintain contact with individuals in police departments, courts, state agencies, and private sector agencies 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 defenses.
• 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 court appearances for witnesses, including providing transportation for clients and/or witnesses when necessary.
• Prepare exhibits for trials and hearings.
• Work independently and outside 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 involving interviewing, fact-gathering, record inspection, and report writing.
• A bachelor’s degree may substitute for up to two years of investigatory experience.
• Valid and active Massachusetts driver’s license and access to a dependable automobile.
• Home internet access sufficient for remote work.

The successful candidate will be subject to a background check, including CORI and driving history reviews.

Benefits

The office is centrally located in Worcester, within walking distance of Union Station, which hosts WRTA bus service and MBTA commuter rail. Worcester is New England’s second-largest city, offering an affordable cost of living, a vibrant restaurant and event scene, professional sports teams (Worcester Red Sox and Worcester Railers), and proximity to colleges, farms, and cultural attractions.