Defender Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary Range: $66,538 – $71,378

Kalamazoo Defender is an independent non-profit organization that provides legal representation to the adult indigent population charged with a crime within Kalamazoo County. We take a holistic approach, employing compassionate professionals who work with our clients to identify and address additional needs beyond their legal case. In collaboration with our robust network of area service providers, we aim to connect our clients to relevant support services.

We fight for justice in the courts, care in the community, and dignity in the world. Our mission is rooted in the conviction that poverty and various forms of discrimination put our clients on inequitable footing within and beyond our criminal justice system. Our job is to be their zealous defender in the face of these systemic barriers, fighting for them in court, organizing care for them in our community, and advocating for their inherent dignity in the broader world.

Kalamazoo Defender seeks a full-time Investigator to conduct investigations in support of criminal defense cases. Reporting to the Chief Investigator and working closely with attorneys and other members of the multidisciplinary defense team, the Investigator supports cases from initial fact development through case resolution. The work may include interviewing clients and witnesses; reviewing and analyzing discovery, records, video and audio recordings, and other evidence; conducting scene visits and other field investigation; locating people and information; preparing investigative reports, case notes, timelines, exhibits, and other case materials; contributing to case strategy and trial preparation; serving subpoenas; and supporting attorneys in court as needed.

The ideal candidate is a resourceful, curious, and adaptable professional who can move effectively between detailed evidence review and report writing, collaborative case planning, courtroom support, and investigative work in the community. This position requires strong judgment, organization, situational awareness, and the ability to manage competing priorities while handling sensitive case information with discretion and confidentiality. The Investigator must be able to work independently while remaining closely connected to the defense team and interact effectively and compassionately with clients, witnesses, and community members who may be experiencing trauma, crisis, or other significant barriers.

• Plan and execute thorough investigations based on case needs, utilizing appropriate investigative methods and tracking progress through departmental systems.
• Review and analyze discovery, records, video and audio recordings, digital materials, and other case-related information to identify relevant facts, inconsistencies, investigative needs, and areas requiring further development.
• Interview clients, witnesses, and other relevant individuals to gather complete and accurate information while building rapport and using appropriate communication and de-escalation techniques.
• Conduct fieldwork as needed, including scene analysis and documentation, evidence collection, surveillance, photography, and efforts to locate clients, witnesses, records, or other relevant information.
• Locate, obtain, review, analyze, and summarize relevant records, data, and other information necessary to support the defense team.
• Analyze, preserve, and organize evidence and prepare investigative reports, summaries, timelines, maps, diagrams, photographs, visual presentations, and other materials for case development and court proceedings.
• Maintain accurate, well-organized case notes in electronic file systems in order to collaborate effectively with the defense team.
• Learn and effectively use case-management and evidence-management systems to ensure the proper uploading, organization, storage, and handling of sensitive case materials.
• Collaborate with attorneys to identify investigative needs, communicate findings, contribute to case strategy, and assist with trial and hearing preparation.
• Attend court proceedings as needed to support attorneys with investigative, evidentiary, witness, and case-related needs.
• Serve subpoenas and testify in court regarding investigative activities and findings when necessary.
• Collaborate effectively with attorneys, paralegals, fellow investigators, mitigation specialists, client navigators, reception staff, and other members of the multidisciplinary defense team to support holistic, client-centered representation.
• Approach investigative work through a holistic, client-centered lens while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries, confidentiality, compassion, and respect.
• Perform investigative duties outside of traditional business hours when case needs require.
• Participate in training programs and maintain current knowledge of investigative practices, procedures, technology, and other tools relevant to the role.
• Remain available to staff members for consultation, case coordination, and education.
• Perform any other duties as assigned, contributing to the overall effectiveness and success of the defense team.

• 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.

• 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.

• Monthly mileage reimbursement at the IRS Standard Mileage Rate.
• Health care coverage including medical, dental, and vision, with employee premiums covered 100%.
• Life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage, with optional supplemental benefits including voluntary life, accident, hospital indemnity, and critical illness insurance.
• Retirement program offering both 403(b) and Roth options with employer match of 5 times employee contributions up to 5%.
• Five weeks of paid time off (pro-rated for start date), paid holiday closures, and additional paid parental leave program.
• Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Health Advocate services, available to all household members.
• Optional Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (DCFSA).
• Health Savings Account (HSA) available with eligible high-deductible health plan.
• Kalamazoo Defender is a Michigan Tri-Share participating Qualifying employees may be eligible for childcare assistance, with costs shared between the employee, the employer, and the state.
• An opportunity to work with like-minded, mission-driven individuals in a dynamic and innovative holistic legal program, backed by a county capable of maximizing Kalamazoo Defender's mission.

Kalamazoo Defender is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and supportive environment for all individuals. We uphold a policy of equal opportunity and prohibit discrimination in any form against employees, employee applicants, directors, board members, interns, clients, volunteers, vendors, or any other individuals associated with our organization.

We prohibit discrimination based on race, including hairstyles associated with race such as braids, locs, twists, afros, cornrows, Bantu knots, etc., sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, including clothing associated with religion such as hijabs, turbans, etc., national origin (ancestry), citizenship status, age, height, weight, pregnancy, ability, socio-economic background or circumstances, military or veteran status, marital or partnership status, genetic predisposition, carrier status, or body art, including piercings and tattoos.

We are committed to maintaining a workplace and environment free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, and will comply with and aim to surpass antidiscrimination policies set forth by local, state, and federal laws protecting against such actions.

Kalamazoo Defender values diversity and strives to create an environment where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their unique perspectives, experiences, and full authentic selves into the space.