Public Defense Investigator - Supervisor
- Summary
The Department of Public Defense (DPD) provides robust legal representation to indigent clients in felonies, misdemeanors, juvenile defense, family defense (dependency cases), involuntary commitment (mental illness), sex offender commitment, and inquests. We work with the community to dismantle the systems that oppress our clients, to make the traditional systems that remain as restorative as possible, and to advocate for pathways that will allow our clients to succeed. We also advocate to reduce the harm and reach of the criminal and civil legal system and address systemic racism. We strive to create a flexible workplace culture that is inclusive, respectful, and supportive, premised on a shared anti-oppression framework.
To learn more about DPD, please visit our website at: https://kingcounty.gov/depts/public-defense.aspx
About the Position
Public Defense Investigator Supervisors serve as an integral part of the division's supervisory/management team and will be responsible for leading and developing a team of investigators. The successful candidate for this role will have extensive knowledge of rules of evidence, criminal procedures, surveillance techniques, and legal proceedings. In addition, the individual will lead by example, providing first-rate trial related investigations, supporting DPD attorneys representing clients.
Who May Apply
This recruitment is INTERNAL ONLY and open to current King County, Department of Public Defense employees.
DPD is currently accepting applications to fill one career service position in the Northwest Defenders Division (NDD). DPD Ethical Walls Policies and Procedures will apply to applicants, such that if you work or have worked for one of DPD's divisions, you may be ineligible to work in another division.
Work Location and Schedule
The position is exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is not eligible for overtime pay. The position's base work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm; some evening and weekend work may be required.
DPD employees enjoy a flexible, hybrid in-office/telecommute workplace structure, and this role should expect to work both in the office and remotely, while being required to report to other locations, such as court or jail facilities. The position may be assigned to work out of our Kent and/or Seattle locations.
Forms and Materials Required- An online employment application completed at www.kingcounty.gov/jobs. The employment history should go back at least 10 years if you have 10 years of employment (or more to include relevant experience).
- A cover letter no more than two pages summarizing your experience and how you meet the required qualifications, knowledge, and skills for the position.
- A resume.
Cassandra Montgomery
Human Resource Analyst
cassandra.montgomery@kingcounty.gov- Job Duties
- Supervise, coach, counsel, monitor, motivate, and mentor assigned investigator staff members.
- Serve as a member of the division management team and collaborate with other investigator supervisors to establish best practices and identify training needs for investigator staff.
- Manage team of investigators, assigning investigation requests, monitoring due date compliance, compliance with time and record keeping policies; managing leaves and coverage; holding unit meetings; relaying operational and administrative information.
- Maintain centralized and up to date relevant investigation documents and information for the unit.
- Consult with attorney supervisors and managing attorney as to conflicts of interest, approaches to cases, prioritizing work, etc.
- Provide constructive and consistent feedback to investigator staff, including conducting mid-year and annual development reviews for each employee.
- Train and onboard new employees to the unit.
- Educate and model sensitivity to issues of race, equity, and social justice as it relates to the workplace and the work of Public Defense.
- Understand and model the mission and vision of the Department of Public Defense.
- Manage staff across work units, manage professional communication and provide conflict resolution.
- Understand and apply Human Resources policies and procedures, including discipline.
- Carry cases or work cases with investigator staff.
- Assist investigator staff and attorneys in analyzing cases from a defense perspective. This may include examination of discovery materials or other information to determine areas in which more factual information is needed, and attendance at pre-trial conferences.
- Conduct crime scene analysis and examination of other physical locations or objects to uncover and identify evidence that will assist in preparing the defense. This may include taking photographs and preparing diagrams, maps, charts and scale drawings to be exhibited in court. Communicate findings to attorneys.
- Identify and locate known or potential witnesses; assist attorneys in identifying appropriate expert witnesses.
- Conduct in-depth interviews with victims, witnesses, police personnel, medical personnel, clients, and others; develop and prioritize questions in order to obtain necessary information related to the case.
- Prepare comprehensive written summaries of interviews and other investigative findings; document contacts.
- Obtain and review reports, records and other information. This may include, but is not limited to: address verification, education and employment records, military records, medical records, private industry records, government agency records and criminal records of state and defense witnesses.
- Prepare, process, and serve subpoenas on individuals and organizations.
- Organize investigative case files: maintain and update time logs and calendar of due dates and court dates, confer with investigator staff and attorneys regarding investigation status.
- Provide trial assistance by communicating trial schedule to witnesses, responding to last minute investigation requests and testifying as necessary.
- Maintain current knowledge of related issues/standards in the legal environment.
- Attend and participate in unit and agency training and meetings as appropriate.
- Handle special projects and assignments.
- Other duties as assigned.
- Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills
- Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice or a related field, two years' experience as a criminal investigator, or any equivalent combination of experience/education/training that demonstrates the knowledge of the principles and methods of relevant criminal and civil legal experience and criminal investigation, including gathering, preserving and presenting evidence.
- Supervisory experience or demonstrated ability to coach, counsel, and mentor investigator staff members.
- Demonstrated skills with the management of teams, individuals, and conflict resolution.
- Ability to lead, to implement policies and procedures from management and Human Resources.
- Ability to have difficult conversations with supervisees, to provide constructive and timely feedback.
- Willingness to actively participate in the division management team; join with the other unit managers to problem-solve and lead the office as a team; model teamwork for the supervisees.
- Experience training and mentoring.
- Demonstrated professional and effective communication and listening skills.
- Knowledge of interviewing methods, techniques and procedures; including ability to recognize and document facts, ascertain factual discrepancies and employ appropriate action and follow-up.
- Knowledge of the role of the attorney-investigator relationship and familiarity with the Washington State Bar Association Rules of Professional Responsibility and other ethical standards which govern investigators, in order to be able to interpret and abide by Constitutional amendments, U.S. Supreme Court decisions, and court-related issues for investigators.
- Demonstrated skill in working with diverse populations (including clients and witnesses) in the relevant civil and criminal legal systems, to effectively serve vulnerable clients from all walks of life.
- Skill in preparing detailed narrative reports, correspondence and other written materials to support accurate case history accounts and positive outcomes for those we serve.
- Ability to respond to inquiries from attorneys, clients, staff members and court personnel in a timely and accurate manner.
- Ability to testify effectively at trial, sentencing or other hearings, to represent our clients in the best possible light.
- Proficiency with computer/communications equipment and basic Microsoft Office suite of desktop applications (e.g., Word, Excel, and Outlook) Software; cameras, video equipment, tape recorders, and other relevant technology as appropriate.
- Familiarity with mapping/diagramming software programs preferred to organize and access various records and information sources that can assist in an investigation.
- Skill in observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Proficiency in searching and analyzing social networks and information databases preferred.
- Proficiency at entering data efficiently and accurately to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
- Skill in handling confidential information acquired during the course of an investigation to protect sensitive client and agency data.
- Skill in identifying potential ethical issues and seeking advice/counsel when ethical issues arise or require clarification to ensure investigations are conducted in a principled manner.
- Familiarity with criminal law, the legal system and legal terminology to understand the basic steps of the legal system for dealing with relevant civil and criminal matters handled by DPD divisions.
- Skill in working independently, making decisions with little guidance within a short amount of time, setting priorities, and meeting deadlines, to support timeliness and follow-through on legal items and scheduling affecting our clients.
- Demonstrated analytical, organization, and problem-solving skills, to effectively utilize information.
- Ability to assess potentially dangerous situations, and act accordingly, for personal safety and the integrity of the case.
- Ability to quickly adapt to situations and to work well under pressure, to exercise good judgment in stressful circumstances.
- Washington State driver's license and the ability to travel within the County in a timely manner to attend necessary meetings, court dates, and appointments.
- Must be at least 21 years of age in order to enter facilities where our clients may be held.
- Supplemental Information
Special Note Regarding COVID-19
DPD is following Public Health and CDC guidance in regard to social distancing. Interviews for this position will be conducted remotely. Successful candidates may be required to telecommute and come into the office on a periodic basis; frequency will vary based on business and operational needs.
DPD Policies
DPD Ethical Walls Policies and Procedures will apply to applicants, such that if you work or have worked for one of DPD's divisions, you may be ineligible to work in another division.
Outside Work Policy for Administrative Staff
will apply to applicants, such that you must receive approval from your supervisor and Managing Attorney before being permitted to engage in outside employment for compensation or volunteer.
Application Process
Interested individuals should submit a complete online King County application (all blanks must be filled out and may not direct the reader to reference an attached resume or other document. Answers that say "see resume" will be considered as incomplete), a resume, and a cover letter (no more than two pages) summarizing how you meet the experience, qualifications, knowledge and skills for the job.
Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed and screened for clarity, completeness, and competitiveness. Applicants may be required to demonstrate their qualifications at the time of the interview and/or skills assessment. All materials will be evaluated for spelling, grammar, and punctuation usage. The most competitive candidates will be invited to interview.
Offer of employment is contingent on:
The successful completion of references and/or a review of your personnel file, ability to pass a Washington State Patrol background check, ability to pass security clearance to secure access to correctional facilities, a review of the Brady List, and a division conflicts check.
Union Membership
Positions in this classification are recognized by the Teamsters, Local 117.
Forbes recently named King County as one of Washington State's best employers.
Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference? Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play.
Guided by our "True North", we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce. To reach this goal we are committed to workforce equity. Equitable recruiting, support, and retention is how we will obtain the highest quality workforce in our region; a workforce that shares and will help advance our guiding principles--we are one team; we solve problems; we focus on the customer; we drive for results; we are racially just; we respect all people; we lead the way; and we are responsible stewards. We encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including Native American and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people living with disabilities, and veterans.
COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement
King County Executive Branch employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. If you are the successful candidate for the position you applied for, the County will send you a conditional offer letter.
As a condition of employment, prior to a final offer of employment, you will be required to:- submit proof of vaccination, or
- have an approved request for medical or religious exemption and an approved accommodation. Philosophical, political, scientific, or sociological objections to vaccination will not be considered for an exemption or accommodation.
People are considered fully vaccinated against COVID-19 two weeks after receiving the final dose of a vaccination approved by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The Executive Branch includes employees in the Executive branch, the Assessor's Office, Elections, the King County Sheriff's Office, and the Executive Office.
King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer
No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation.
To Apply
If you are interested in pursuing this position, please follow the application instructions carefully. If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application or assessment process or if you have questions please contact the recruiter listed on this job announcement.
King County offers a highly-competitive compensation and benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and support our employees' health and well-being. Eligible positions receive the following benefits and have access to the following programs:
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage: King County pays 100% of the premiums for eligible employees and family members
- Life and disability insurance: employees are provided basic coverage and given the opportunity to purchase additional insurance for both the employee and eligible dependents
- Retirement: King County employees are eligible to participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan
- Transportation program and ORCA transit pass
- 10 paid holidays each year (plus 2 personal holidays)
- Generous vacation and paid sick leave
- Paid parental leave, family and medical leaves, and volunteer leave
- Flexible Spending Account
- Wellness programs
- Onsite gyms and activity centers
- Employee giving program
- Employee assistance programs
- Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position
- Training and career development programs
This is a general description of the benefits offered to eligible King County employees, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the CBA prevails. Also, in the event of any incorrect information in this document, applicable laws, policies, rules, CBAs, or official plan documents will prevail.
NOTE: Benefits for Term Limited Temporary (TLT) or Short Term Temporary (STT) positions, including leave eligibility and/or participation in the pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems, will vary based upon the terms and details of the position. Short Term Temporary positions are not eligible for an ORCA transit pass.
For inquiries about the specifics of this position, please contact the recruiter identified on this job posting.
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01Are you a current and/or former King County, Department of Public Defense employee?
- Yes
- No
02If yes to the above, in which division(s)? Otherwise, please indicate N/A.- Associated Counsel for the Accused
- Northwest Defenders
- Society of Counsel Representing the Accused Persons
- The Defender Association
- Director's Office
- N/A
03Do you have a bachelor's degree?- Yes
- No
04If you answered yes to the previous question, please provide your field of study here (otherwise type enter in N/A):05How many years of experience do you have as a criminal defense investigator (or related experience)?- No experience
- Less than one year
- One to two years
- Two to three years
- Three to four years
- More than 4 years
06For the above question, please indicate where and when you obtained this experience, your job title, and a summary of the job responsibilities you were regularly expected to perform. (if no experience, please enter N/A)07By applying for this position, I agree that I am willing and able to work in the following Seattle and/or Kent work locations: Dexter Horton Building, 710 Second Avenue, Seattle; or Meeker Street Building, 420 West Harrison Street, Kent.- Yes
- No
08Are you applying to this position as an eligible current or previous King County Employee Priority Placement Program Participant? Is this position the same or lower percentage of full-time when compared to the position held at the point of the notification of layoff? Do you possess the skills and abilities to qualify for this position?- Yes, I was given a layoff notice from my role at King County and I am within two years of the effective date of my layoff. Additionally, the position I was laid off from was the same or a higher percentage of FT status when compared to this one.
- No
09If you answered yes to the question above and you are applying for this position as a Priority Placement Participant, to be considered, you must provide the following three pieces of information in the space provided: 1. The title you held when you received your layoff notice 2. The department you worked in 3. The effective date of your layoffRequired Question