Investigator I - Public Defender (Non Merit)

Job Code: 45040 Salary Grade: 16 Salary: $24.19/hr - $38.95/hr FLSA: Nonexempt

The purpose of this classification is to assist attorneys in criminal investigations to ensure excellent legal representation of indigent defendants in DeKalb County as mandated by the Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Essential Functions:

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Locates and interviews witnesses; locates and interviews witnesses frequently in high risk areas; evaluates and assesses the witness's credibility and gains their cooperation; asks pertinent questions, records accurate, concise and detailed notes; detects discrepancies and inconsistencies in an interview; canvasses neighborhoods for potential witnesses; and observes the crime scene.

Serves subpoenas and court orders; serves subpoenas after business hours, early mornings, evenings and weekends and in hostile situations; ensures timeliness of documents; coordinates with various law enforcement agencies for departmental protocol; and serves court orders to Department of Family and Children's Services, school records, inmate records and cell tower records.

Reviews case files and discovery; reviews discovery files including but not limited to accusations, indictments, police reports, crime scene photos, photo line-ups, District Attorney's investigative summary, police officers/detectives supplemental reports, all victim/witness statements and lab reports; remains impartial and objective while dissecting the case; and develops interview questions to ask victims and witnesses.

Conducts field investigations; goes to crime scenes and gathers physical evidence and video footage of crime scene; takes photographs; obtains maps, diagrams and drawings; denotes lighting and visibility; canvases area for potential witnesses or evidence; and maintains County vehicle.

Investigates victim and witness background using computer database; completes and maintains required security and integrity courses; complies with Georgia Crime Information Center, Accurint, and Clear regulations and laws; maintains confidentiality with accounts, password and network security; cross checks and confirms identities; runs criminal history check; obtains certified copies of records; investigate social media sites; searches all public records and checks documents received for authenticity; and conducts enhanced investigative searches.

Assists attorneys in preparation for, and during, trial; provides transportation for attorney to meet with client and/or witnesses; meets and collaborates with attorneys in support of investigative matters in preparation for trial; assembles all evidence to be used at trial; prepares court exhibits such as maps, photos, CDs, DVDs, charts and demonstrative aids; assists with technology in court and during client conferences in jail; arranges transportation for witnesses; coordinates witnesses during trial including child care, clothing, advice on proper court etiquette; selects proper court attire for client; and consistently present in court during trial

Minimum Qualifications: Associate degree in Criminal Justice or a related field; two years experience in criminal justice or a related field; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities for this job.

Specific License or Certification Required: Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver's license.