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

About the Role

The Children and Family Law (CAFL) and Youth Advocacy Divisions (YAD) of the Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) are seeking a full-time Supervising Investigator. This newly created position will assist in building a robust Investigator program across Massachusetts. The Supervising Investigator will be based in any CAFL or YAD office with available space, depending on the needs of the divisions and the selected candidate.

Investigators are key members of the defense team, responsible for interviewing witnesses, investigating allegations, documenting crime scenes, and developing defense strategies for indigent clients in family regulation, delinquency, and youthful offender cases. The Supervising Investigator will oversee staff Investigators, assist in hiring and training, and maintain a reduced caseload.

Responsibilities

• Monitor investigator caseloads to ensure appropriateness and maintain related statistics.
• Provide in-the-field supervision, including accompanying investigators on witness interviews, crime scene examinations, jail visits, and court appearances.
• Review and oversee report writing by Investigators.
• Conduct regular one-on-one and group meetings with Investigators and defense team staff to ensure quality investigations.
• Collaborate with Attorneys-in-Charge to assign cases and conduct annual performance evaluations of supervisees.
• Assist in recruiting and hiring staff Investigators to ensure quality and diversity.
• Work with the PDD Director of Investigations, CAFL/YAD Leadership Teams, and the Training Unit to train Investigators.
• Meet regularly with leadership to review compliance and discuss regional/statewide issues.
• Maintain contacts with agencies (e.g., police, DCF, DYS, hospitals) and community organizations to facilitate access to witnesses and records.
• Develop familiarity with Massachusetts child welfare laws, criminal laws, and procedural rules.
• Locate and interview witnesses, including uncooperative or hostile individuals.
• Investigate and document allegations from the Department of Children and Families and District Attorney’s Office, as well as crime scenes.
• Prepare oral and written reports based on interviews and investigative findings.
• Conduct surveillance, measure, diagram, and photograph crime scenes or relevant locations.
• Utilize online databases, public records, and social networking sites for investigations.
• Maintain accurate records of all investigative phases and communicate updates to attorneys.
• Network with agencies (e.g., police, courts, state/private sector agencies) to access necessary information.
• Review and analyze police reports and witness statements.
• Advise attorneys on investigative developments and tools to aid in defense preparation.

Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum entrance requirements:

• A Bachelor’s degree and at least three years of experience as a criminal investigator or criminal defense attorney, preferably in indigent defense; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Insured, reliable transportation and a valid Massachusetts driver’s license.
• Access to home internet sufficient for remote work.
• Successful candidates will undergo a background check, including CORI and driving history reviews.

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

• A demonstrated commitment to anti-racism and reducing racial/ethnic disparities in the criminal legal system.
• Commitment to zealous advocacy and community-oriented defense.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, internet databases, social media, online searches, surveillance technology, and audio/video equipment.
• Knowledge of criminal investigation principles, evidence handling, and forensic techniques.
• Strong leadership, mentorship, and teamwork skills.
• Excellent written/oral advocacy, analytical, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work effectively with courts and Juvenile Court personnel.
• Knowledge of civil/criminal law, courtroom procedures, and interviewing techniques.
• Flexibility to work outside regular business hours (e.g., nights/weekends) if required.
• Bilingual language skills preferred.

About the Organization

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is Massachusetts’ public defender agency, providing legal representation to indigent clients in criminal, delinquency, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, and appellate cases. CPCS is committed to zealous advocacy, cultural competency, and reducing systemic disparities.

The Children and Family Law Division (CAFL) represents indigent parents, children, and guardians in child welfare cases, employing a holistic, team-based approach. The Youth Advocacy Division (YAD) provides legal defense for juveniles in delinquency, youthful offender, and related cases, integrating attorneys, social service advocates, and investigators.