Trial Investigator

The Federal Public Defender’s Office for the Central District of California is accepting applications for full-time investigator positions in the trial unit for our Los Angeles office. The trial unit is committed to the pursuit of justice by aggressively advocating in federal court for the constitutional rights and inherent dignity of individuals who are accused or convicted of crimes and cannot afford their own lawyer.

Job Duties: Trial investigators review and analyze discovery, sift through complex materials and process concrete and abstract content, develop investigation plans, obtain a variety of records, identify and interview witnesses, serve subpoenas, and effectively use electronic tools both in the course of investigations and during trials. Additionally, investigators develop evidence for sentencing by identifying mental health, environmental, and social mitigating factors.

Requirements: All applicants must have graduated from an accredited school with a bachelor’s degree. Extensive relevant experience may substitute a bachelor’s degree. A background in law, social work, or mental health is a plus. A high level of computer literacy is required, and applicants must be able to organize work and set priorities to meet critical deadlines. The ability to speak, read, and write in Spanish is preferred, but not required. This position may require extensive travel. Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license. Varying hours including nights, weekends, and holidays may be required. A background investigation is required as a condition of employment. Applicants must be United States citizens or permanent residents seeking citizenship as described here: https://www.uscourts.gov/careers/search-judiciary-jobs/citizenship-requirements-employment-judiciary.

Selection Criteria: Successful applicants demonstrate an interest in social justice, civil rights, or indigent defense; must have excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills; must be able to develop a rapport with people of different backgrounds; can work independently and take initiative; is capable of analyzing and communicating complex information; has the drive to broaden the depths of their knowledge; and works well in teams.

Salary/Benefits: This is a full-time, at-will position. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience and is subject to direct deposit. Benefits include health and life insurance, retirement, and a Thrift Savings Plan. For more information on benefits, see http://www.uscourts.gov/careers/benefits.

How to Apply: Apply by emailing a letter of interest, résumé, a representative writing sample, and three references in a single PDF document to Cuauhtemoc Ortega, Interim Federal Public Defender, at employment@fpdcdca.org with the subject line: TRIAL INVESTIGATOR APPLICATION. We will accept applications until August 3, 2020. The Federal Public Defender’s Office may fill current and future positions from this vacancy announcement. Please, no phone calls.