The Orleans Public Defenders (OPD) is seeking applicants for a FT Entry Level 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.The Staff Investigator may be required to locate and interview witnesses, take statements from witnesses, perform background checks, locate and secure records, survey and photograph crime scenes, prepare demonstratives for trial, and testify. The Staff Investigator will be involved in all aspects of case preparation including providing strategic recommendations. QUALIFICATIONS: Ideal candidates will have demonstrated interest in serving 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:
- $42,000 Entry Level (Annual Step Increases based on experience and qualifications)
- Retirement Plan Contributions (Employer contribution up to 6% of employee salary)
- Employee Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverages (Employer Paid)
- Employee Life & AD&D policy (Employer Paid) with options to buy-up
- Generous Paid Vacation, Sick, and Parental Leave
- Holidays Paid (Federal, State, and Orleans Courts observed)
- Discount Plan (no cost)
- Flexible Work Schedule
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 All other applications will be considered on a rolling basis. 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.