Investigator

Job Description:

The Investigator will provide exceptional client services by meeting with potential clients to explain services, screen potential cases and by promoting the law firm in order to convert potential clients into cases. The Investigator will make in person contact with potential clients and will obtain information/documentation from clients as necessary to initiate a case. The Investigator must project a professional image on behalf of the law firm and seek assistance and guidance from the Supervising Attorney/Partner for any questions of law or legal advice for the client. This position will work under the direct supervision and coordination of the Supervising Attorney/Partner.

The Investigator is expected to be readily available for all phone calls and appointments during business hours and will remain on-call and available for after-hours and weekend phone calls. The overall goal for the Investigator is to schedule an appointment with a potential client within 24 hours of the intake, but no more than 48 hours.

This role requires employees to provide their own vehicle, the law firm will reimburse mileage. The Investigator must be based out of Richmond, VA or the Tidewater area in Virginia.

Responsibilities:

• Enthusiastically and knowledgably inform clients of the law firm’s experience and expertise in handling personal injury matters
• Establish quick rapport with potential clients and enthusiastically pursue cases which fit law firm criteria
• Evaluate the validity of claims and seek guidance as necessary
• Investigate and obtain recorded statements as necessary for effective case handling
• Take photographs of scars, property damage and other relevant proof pertaining to damages
• Obtain all other pertinent information to establish a claim
• Obtain various documents such as accident/incident reports, signed contracts, signed authorizations, declarations pages, photographs, treatment documents/receipts, etc.
• Maintain daily calendar with any appointments, personal time off, scheduling conflicts, etc.
• Maintain equipment such as computer, scanner, printer, camera, cell phone, etc.
• Deliver prepared talks/scripts that describe law firm services in order to encourage potential clients to retain our services
• Confer with potential clients and answer questions about law firm services and general questions regarding the overall process
• Present and complete various legal forms such as intake, contract, authorizations, etc.
• Process paperwork for new clients in accordance with procedure
• Obtain and verify evidence by interviewing witnesses and/or analyzing documents
• Record evidence and documents using equipment such as cameras, scanners, copiers, etc.
• Follow up immediately with Intake Specialists following an appointment to report disposition
• Follow up as needed with Paralegals, Attorneys and/or Negotiators to assist with gathering necessary information to expedite and assist claims handling
• Always answer the telephone to make new appointments, even if engaged in a current appointment

Qualifications:

• Prior experience in Personal Injury, law enforcement, investigation and/or sales preferred.

Knowledge

• Knowledge of the principles and process for providing exceptional client service by meeting and exceeding client expectations, exercising empathy (capacity to understand the feelings of another person) and promptly responding to client needs
• Knowledge of principles and methods for promoting the firm’s services
• Knowledge of computers, software and office equipment such as Outlook, Neos, WordPerfect, Word, Lead Docket, copier, scanner, fax and phone system
• Knowledge of techniques for receiving calls, providing information, transferring calls, etc.

Skills

• Communication – speaking clearly and effectively to convey necessary information
• Service orientation – Actively looking for ways to help clients, coworkers, etc.
• Social perceptiveness – Being aware of others’ reactions and understanding why individuals react in a certain manner
• Active Listening skills – full attention to what others are saying and ability to ask questions as appropriate
• Oral and written communication skills – communicating with your audience to convey information effectively
• Time Management and Prioritization – managing your time and prioritizing work flow to meet deadlines and adjusting one’s actions to deal with interruptions
• Interpersonal skills – work well with others in a team and communicate effectively with coworkers, clients and outside personnel
• Monitoring skills – conduct periodic performance self-assessments to make improvements and take corrective action

Abilities

• Ability to analyze, interpret and understand legal and factual materials
• Ability to communicate information and ideas in a manner in which others can understand; know your audience
• Ability to empathize with others
• Ability to listen and understand information
• Ability to deal directly with the public
• Ability to speak clearly so others can understand you
• Ability to exercise good judgment and polite behavior towards others
• Ability to juggle multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to maintain composure and deal calmly and effectively during stressful situations
• Ability to multitask
• Ability to be persistent, a self-starter, assertive and overcome obstacles

Benefits:

• Base Salary: This is based on experience, candidates with outstanding experience whose salary expectations fall outside of the listed salary are welcome to apply.
• 401(k) & matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Profit sharing
• Mileage reimbursement
• Vision insurance