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Public Defender Investigator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

allencounty

Assistant Public Defender Juvenile

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$63K - $84K/yr

Public Defender's Office FLSA Status: Exempt Classification/Level: Special Occupation Date: 04/2023 ... Responsible for representing defendants during criminal investigative proceedings. * Represents ...

allencounty

Assistant Public Defender Juvenile

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$63K - $84K/yr

Public Defender's Office FLSA Status: Exempt Classification/Level: Special Occupation Date: 04/2023 ... Responsible for representing defendants during criminal investigative proceedings. * Represents ...

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All JobsPublic Defender Investigator JobsPublic Defender Investigator Jobs in Indiana

Public Defender Investigator information

See Indiana salary details

$30.4K

$71.7K

$124.7K

How much do public defender investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for public defender investigator in Indiana is $71,676.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $93,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public defender investigator?

Public Defender Investigators are professionals who work with public defender offices to investigate the facts of criminal cases on behalf of defendants who cannot afford private attorneys. They gather evidence, interview witnesses, visit crime scenes, and help build a defense strategy. Their work is crucial in ensuring that clients receive a fair trial by uncovering information that may support innocence or mitigate charges. Public Defender Investigators often work closely with attorneys to prepare for court and may testify as needed. They play a vital role in upholding justice and protecting the rights of the accused.

What does a public defender investigator do?

As a public defender investigator, your primary responsibilities are to assist public defender attorneys and gather evidence for use in criminal and civil trials. You work for clients who cannot afford a private attorney for their case. Your investigative duties include conducting interviews, running background checks, completing undercover surveillance, preparing legal documents, conferring with the attorney, and analyzing evidence. You handle a felony or misdemeanor charge, deliver subpoenas, act as a witness, and appear in a trial as necessary.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public defender investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Defender Investigator, you need strong investigative skills, knowledge of criminal law and procedures, and typically a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with case management systems, public records databases, and evidence collection tools is commonly required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure thorough and unbiased investigations, supporting fair legal representation for clients.

What are some common challenges faced by public defender investigators in building a strong defense case?

Public Defender Investigators often encounter challenges such as limited access to witnesses, reluctance of individuals to cooperate, and working under tight deadlines. They must carefully gather and verify information while maintaining objectivity, even in emotionally charged cases. Additionally, balancing a heavy caseload and ensuring thoroughness can be demanding, but strong organizational and communication skills help investigators effectively support attorneys and clients.

What is the difference between Public Defender Investigator vs Public Defender Paralegal?

AspectPublic Defender InvestigatorPublic Defender Paralegal
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer relevant experienceHigh school diploma or associate degree; paralegal certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, interviews, case investigationOffice-based, legal research, document preparation
Employer & Industry UsagePublic defender offices, criminal justiceLaw firms, public defender offices, legal departments
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Public Defender Investigator and a Public Defender Paralegal lies in their roles. Investigators focus on gathering evidence, conducting interviews, and fieldwork, while paralegals handle legal research, document preparation, and administrative tasks. Both roles support public defenders but serve distinct functions within the criminal justice system.

More about Public Defender Investigator jobs

What are popular job titles related to Public Defender Investigator jobs in Indiana?

For Public Defender Investigator jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Public Defender Investigator jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Defender Investigator jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Public Defender Investigator jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Public Defender Investigator job openings:

Public Defender Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Defender Investigator job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 66% In-person, 17% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,676 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Assistant Public Defender Revocations

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

allencounty
See more jobs at allencountyexternal

$63K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Department: Public Defender’s Office                                            FLSA Status: Exempt

Classification/Level: Special Occupation                                       Date:  04/2023

Under the direction of the Chief Public Defender, the Deputy Public Defender provides criminal defense to indigent defendants in the courts of Allen County, Indiana as mandated by the U.S. Constitution, the Indiana Constitution and Indiana state law. This position is covered under the Circuit Court Employee Handbook. This is an employee-at-will position.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

 

  • Works directly with defendant and maintains regular contact with clients through correspondence, phone calls, and in person meetings, while upholding ethical duties of loyalty and confidentiality.
  • Responsible for representing defendants during criminal investigative proceedings.
  • Represents defendants in all court appearances, including pretrial discovery, withdraw pleas, and suppression notices.
  • Works with support staff to provide effective and high quality legal representation to accused indigent people facing felony or misdemeanor charges, juvenile adjudication, and mental health commitments.
  • Attends post-trial sentencing hearings for clients who negotiate plea bargains or are found guilty in trial.
  • Files appeals when errors are found in court proceedings which prevented the defendant from having a fair trial. 
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

 

  • Graduation from an ABA accredited school of law
  • Valid Indiana license to practice law
  • Excellent written and communication skills
  • Ability to handle multiple priorities and a large volume of work
  • Minimum of one year of experience in criminal litigation
  • Must have prior experience as lead or co-counsel in two felony jury trials that went to verdict.

 

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS:

 

The Deputy Public Defender performs work that consists of many complex and significant variables when providing criminal defense to indigent defendants.  Extensive judgement and adaptation is required to provide effective and high quality legal representation.

RESPONSIBILITY:

The Deputy Public Defender performs work that is extensive and consequential while representing defendants. The Deputy Public Defender works with little to no supervision and is responsible for providing effective and high quality legal representation to all assigned defendants.

 

 

PERSONAL WORK RELATIONSHIPS:

 

The Deputy Public Defender maintains frequent communication with defendants, judges, prosecutors, probation, law enforcement, investigators and Public Defender office staff.

 

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The Deputy Public Defender performs work in a courtroom and office type setting.  Very frequent typing, attention to detail, detailed inspection and transcription/proofreading exists. 

SUPERVISION:

None

LICENSING:

Valid Indiana license to practice law

IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR:

Chief Public Defender

HOURS:

Hours vary; 37.5 hours

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