If you have a passion for seeking the truth, enjoy solving complex cases, and want to make a difference, a career as a Public Advocate Investigator could be the right fit. The Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy (DPA) is currently seeking motivated individuals to fill a Public Advocate Investigator I position in its Princeton, KY office.
This role is crucial for providing investigative support for attorneys defending clients who cannot afford legal representation, making it an integral part of the Commonwealth’s justice system.
Job Overview
As a Public Advocate Investigator, you’ll work in the Executive Branch under the Justice & Public Safety Cabinet with the Department of Public Advocacy. The DPA is Kentucky’s largest criminal defense firm, committed to upholding the rights of low-income individuals facing criminal charges.
This full-time position offers competitive pay, overtime eligibility, and a range of essential responsibilities that contribute to the fair and effective operation of Kentucky’s legal defense system.
Position Details
- Job Title: Public Advocate Investigator I
- Location: Princeton Trial Office, 105 S Jefferson Street, Princeton, KY 42445
- Salary Range: $2,889.42 – $4,334.20 per month
- Job Type: Full-time, Executive Branch position, eligible for overtime
- Work Hours: 37.5 hours per week
- Probationary Period: Six months
- Application Deadline: Closes on November 11, 2024, at 7:00 PM EST
Primary Responsibilities
The role involves investigative support, which is vital for building a strong defense for clients. A Public Advocate Investigator’s main duties include:
- Client and Witness Interviews: Conduct interviews with clients, witnesses, and potential witnesses to gather relevant information. This may require extensive travel and adaptability, as interviews could be in settings like prisons, low-income housing, or unfamiliar areas.
- Evidence Collection and Preservation: Identify and preserve physical evidence needed for the defense. Collect necessary documents, perform background searches, and ensure that all evidence is well-documented and securely transmitted for examination.
- Legal Documentation and Court Assistance: Prepare exhibits and documents for court proceedings and testify in court if required. Draft investigative reports and memoranda for attorneys to support the defense strategy.
- Support for Defense Team: Assist attorneys in formulating the defense theory by sharing critical insights and findings from investigations. Participate actively in team discussions to improve defense preparation.
- Process Serving: Serve subpoenas to ensure witnesses and necessary individuals attend court proceedings, maintaining procedural accuracy.
- Other Duties: Perform additional tasks as assigned to support the legal team’s objectives.
Required Qualifications
To be eligible for Public Advocate Investigator Job Opening in USA, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required. However, additional experience in relevant fields can substitute for education on a year-for-year basis.
- Experience: At least two years of experience in law enforcement, general investigation, or a related investigative field. Specialized experience in public advocacy investigation is an advantage.
- License: Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license, as extensive travel is part of the role.
- Skills: Strong organizational skills, the ability to work effectively within a team, and attention to detail. Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, are crucial for this position.
Preferred Skills and Qualities
Successful Public Advocate Investigators typically possess the following skills and qualities:
- Organizational Skills: Managing multiple cases, meeting deadlines, and maintaining accurate records.
- Communication Skills: Ability to interact with clients from various backgrounds compassionately while conveying complex information clearly to colleagues and court personnel.
- Adaptability: Prepared to work in diverse environments, from formal courtrooms to more challenging settings like correctional facilities or high-risk areas.
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze cases, uncover essential details, and connect the dots that may significantly impact the defense strategy.
- Commitment to Mission: Empathy for clients and dedication to providing high-quality representation to those in need.
Working Conditions and Challenges
The role of a Public Advocate Investigator is demanding and unique due to the nature of the cases handled by the DPA. The role requires:
- Fieldwork in Challenging Settings: Investigators frequently conduct interviews in prisons, low-income housing, and potentially confrontational situations.
- Travel and Irregular Hours: Extensive travel is often necessary, with hours that may vary depending on the investigative needs and case urgency.
- High Responsibility and Teamwork: Investigators bear the responsibility of providing accurate, thorough information to help attorneys build a defense, often under tight deadlines and in high-stakes situations.
Compensation and Benefits
BBVA offers a monthly salary range of $2,889.42 to $4,334.20, reflecting the expertise and dedication needed for the role. Additional benefits for state employees typically include:
- Health and Wellness Benefits: Comprehensive health coverage, including medical, dental, and vision.
- Paid Time Off: Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Retirement and Financial Security: Access to a state retirement plan, life insurance, and other financial security options.
- Professional Growth Opportunities: On-the-job training and skill development opportunities to help Public Advocate Investigators advance in their careers.
The exact benefits and compensation may vary and are subject to Kentucky’s state employment policies.
Application Process
Those interested in applying for the Public Advocate Investigator position should ensure that they meet the minimum qualifications and be prepared to apply before the job posting closes on November 11, 2024, at 7:00 PM EST. The hiring agency for this role is the Justice & Public Safety Cabinet, Department of Public Advocacy.
Application Link:
Interested candidates can click on the link below to apply immediately:
https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=579ed9d26ecbecd3&tk=1ibrmn2j1298p0ac&from=serp&vjs=3
Why Consider a Career as a Public Advocate Investigator?
Working as a Public Advocate Investigator allows you to directly contribute to the criminal justice system. This role provides a unique opportunity to help individuals who cannot afford legal representation by ensuring they receive a fair defense. The role’s investigative aspect also offers the chance to refine skills in research, critical thinking, and evidence handling. For those passionate about social justice, this role provides a fulfilling career that allows you to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Conclusion
The Public Advocate Investigator Job Opening in USA position at Kentucky’s Department of Public Advocacy is a rewarding and impactful career for those with a commitment to justice and investigative skills. With a competitive salary, essential role responsibilities, and the opportunity to support the rights of vulnerable individuals, this position offers a meaningful and challenging career path in public service.
If you are organized, compassionate, and resilient, consider applying for this position and becoming a part of Kentucky’s mission to provide fair representation for all. For more information, prospective candidates can visit the Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy’s employment page to view state employment details and apply for the position.
CHECK THESE OUT:
Data Center Facility Manager Job Opening at AWS
Community Manager Job in USA with Visa Sponsorship