Investigator

The purpose of this position in the Public Defender's office is to support attorneys in preparing and presenting cases for trial, ensuring comprehensive client defense. Key responsibilities include assisting with trial materials, reviewing discovery, gathering witness information, serving subpoenas, collaborating on case strategies, and maintaining organized investigative records. Candidates should have strong written and oral communication skills, a strong work ethic, and demonstrate a commitment to public defense. The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary. The Investigator conducts interviews with both incarcerated and non-incarcerated clients and witnesses. For jail visits, they ensure medical releases are signed as needed and notify the attorney via Defender Data. During initial visits, the Investigator identifies any competency or bond issues, such as requests for bond reductions or challenges related to bench warrants and communicates these to the attorney. Regularly communicates with jail clients, delivers legal mail and discovery copies, and meets with them as needed by the attorney. They are available to visit the jail to drop off mail or facilitate client signatures as required. Locates and contacts individuals for case information, including witnesses, suspects, and family members. This includes obtaining witness statements, medical releases, and serving subpoenas for records. All gathered information and court documents are saved in Defender Data and shared with the attorney. Conducts investigations by searching various social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and others. Locates, saves, forwards, and securely preserves social media content (e.g., threads, messages, videos) related to criminal cases for use as court evidence. Visits local businesses to check for available video recordings; if found, reviews and downloads or transfers copies to a flash drive. Attends court sessions to support attorneys, noting case details in Defender Data and tracking dispositions and motions. Manages defense witnesses, handling subpoenas and facilitating communication between witnesses and attorneys during trials. Assists in drafting and filing basic motions, including motions to set or reduce bond and to remove GPS. Inputs Preliminary Hearing Docket into Defender Data, prepare FOIA requests, subpoenas, and file appeals with the court, including service and document preparation. Track all court dates (preliminary hearings, second appearances, and trials) and update Defender Data accordingly. Updates indictment numbers or Solicitor information on dockets as available. Attends initial appearances to record information, update indictments, and close files in Defender Data for attorneys or the county. Uploads sentencing paperwork and orders to Defender Data, files closed cases, manages storage, and retrieves boxes for attorneys as needed. Performs related work as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Requires Associate's degree from an accredited college, preferably in criminal justice or a related field. Six (6) years experience in law enforcement, criminal investigation, or a related field or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license with an acceptable driving history. All applicants tentatively selected for a position with Beaufort County Council will be required to submit to urinalysis to screen for the illegal use of drugs and to a background check prior to appointment. Employment is contingent upon clearing both the drug screening and background investigation.