Investigator
$66,538–$71,378 year
On-siteKalamazoo, Michigan, United States
Job Summary
Conduct thorough investigations supporting criminal defense cases from initial fact development through case resolution. Review discovery, records, and digital materials to identify relevant facts and inconsistencies. Interview clients, witnesses, and community members to gather accurate information while building rapport. Perform fieldwork including scene analysis, evidence collection, surveillance, and efforts to locate individuals. Prepare investigative reports, timelines, maps, and visual presentations for case development and court proceedings. Collaborate with attorneys to identify investigative needs, contribute to case strategy, and assist with trial preparation. Serve subpoenas and testify in court regarding investigative activities when necessary. Maintain accurate case notes in electronic systems and utilize case-management tools to organize sensitive materials. Support the multidisciplinary defense team with holistic, client-centered representation while working outside traditional business hours as required.
Required Qualifications
- Valid Michigan driver's license with the ability and willingness to travel
- At least two years of experience conducting investigations in social services, criminal justice, law enforcement, or comparable investigative work
- Strong commitment to Kalamazoo Defender's mission and values
- Ability to work effectively with diverse populations, including individuals with disabilities, those struggling with addiction, and those experiencing mental health crises
- Commitment to cultural awareness, maintaining professionalism, ensuring confidentiality, and acting with compassion and integrity
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
- Strong interviewing skills and the ability to document clear, accurate investigative work product and case notes
- Strong critical-thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability skills, with the ability to exercise sound independent judgment as information, priorities, or circumstances change
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple investigations, competing responsibilities, and deadlines
- Ability to prioritize work tasks while working both collaboratively and independently
- Ability to locate, obtain, review, analyze, and summarize relevant records, evidence, and data
- Ability to build rapport and manage high-stress or emotionally charged interactions with patience, professionalism, and appropriate de-escalation techniques
- Ability to work effectively across office, court, and community settings, using appropriate judgment and situational awareness in unfamiliar, sensitive, or unpredictable circumstances
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other basic office technologies and comfortable learning and working with new software, systems, and technology tools
- Familiarity with court procedures and documentation, or a willingness and ability to learn
- Ability to work outside of normal office hours when case needs require
Desired Qualifications
- Michigan Professional Investigator license
- Five or more years of relevant investigative experience
- Knowledge of legal procedures and investigative techniques, including interviewing and digital forensics
- Bachelor's degree in a related field
- Bilingual abilities
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