Experienced Staff Investigator

The Orleans Public Defenders (OPD) is seeking applicants for a Full-Time Experienced Staff Investigator.

VISION

Justice . Dignity . Hope .

MISSION

To fight for our clients by providing excellent client-centered representation, reforming the system, and partnering with the community.

The Orleans Public Defenders Office provides holistic, community-based representation in Orleans Parish. We represent thousands of people each year utilizing a client-centered defense model that puts the client first and takes a 360 degree approach to our advocacy and representation. We recognize our clients are unique individuals and work to address their needs both in the court and out. Our diverse staff includes adult and juvenile attorneys; social workers; client, youth and parent advocates; investigators, and administrators all working together for equal justice for our clients, their families, our community, and a better New Orleans. In short, we protect innocence, defend the constitution, demand justice, and hold power accountable.

OPD is committed to providing zealous client-centered, community-oriented defense. Each client’s needs are supported by a dedicated legal team: attorneys, investigators, client advocates, social workers and court support administrators. Highly-skilled Staff Investigators work with OPD Staff Attorneys to put together the best possible defense for each client by investigating alleged crimes.

A Staff Investigator’s duties can involve in-office tasks such as searching and requesting records, reviewing discovery, completing background research, writing case memoranda that accurately documents all investigative work completed on a case, preparing demonstratives for trial, and testifying in court. It also involves being in the field locating and interviewing witnesses, taking written statements, surveying and photographing crime scenes, and serving subpoenas. It will require regular in-person contact—including regular trips to the courthouse, local jails and correctional facilities, and time spent locating and speaking with people who have direct or peripheral relation to a client’s matter. The Staff Investigator will be involved in all aspects of case preparation including providing strategic recommendations.

Qualifications:

Ideal candidates will have demonstrated interest in working with underserved communities. The ability to work well with people of various socioeconomic and educational backgrounds, and the willingness to do field work are a must. Candidates must also be proficient at multitasking. The ideal candidate will possess good non-legal research skills and have the ability to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, staff, and court personnel orally and in writing. Candidates must have access to a reliable and insured vehicle and have a valid driver’s license. Two years of investigative experience and fluency in Spanish or Vietnamese preferred.

Compensation:

• Competitive salary ($45,000 - $72,00 depending on experience and qualifications)
• Company paid Employee Medical coverage
• Company paid Life and Accidental Death coverage
• Dental coverage
• Vision coverage
• Company paid Discount Program
• Retirement Plans (Employer contribution and match)
• Generous paid leave (Sick & Vacation).

To Apply:

Qualified and interested applicants must submit all of the following to be considered for this position:

1. Cover letter explaining your interest in the position

2. Resume

3. Three (3) references

4. Writing sample

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. Please complete the online application here. Incomplete applications will not be considered. No phone calls.”

OPD is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to race, creed, color, age, religion, gender, national origin, disability, veteran status or sexual orientation.

The Orleans Public Defenders provide representation to indigent criminal defendants in Orleans Parish. OPD’s mission is to fight for our clients by providing excellent client-centered representation, reforming the system and partnering with the community. OPD is committed to excellence in the provision of legal services for indigent defendants and client-centered representation that respects the humanity and dignity of those within the criminal justice system.