Investigator

The Bronx Defenders – an innovative, progressive, holistic indigent defense office in the South Bronx – seeks a passionate individual to join our Criminal Defense Practice as an Investigator. 

 Overview 

The Bronx Defenders is a public defender non-profit that is radically transforming how low-income people in the Bronx are represented in the legal system, and, in doing so, is transforming the system itself. BxD seeks thoughtful, creative, energetic individuals with a strong commitment to social justice to join our dynamic and diverse staff. Our staff of over 400 includes interdisciplinary teams made up of criminal, civil, immigration, and family defense attorneys, as well as social workers, benefits specialists, legal advocates, parent advocates, investigators, and team administrators, who collaborate to provide holistic advocacy to address the causes and consequences of legal system involvement. Through this integrated team-based structure, we have developed a groundbreaking, nationally-recognized model of representation called holistic defense that achieves better outcomes for the people we represent. 

Each year, we defend more than 27,000 low-income Bronx residents in criminal, civil, child welfare, and immigration cases, and reach thousands more through our community intake, youth mentoring, and outreach programs. Through impact litigation, policy advocacy, and community organizing, we push for systemic change at the local, state, and national levels. We take what we learn from the people we represent and communities that we work with and launch innovative initiatives designed to bring about real and lasting change. 

 Responsibilities 

 Investigators work alongside attorneys and advocates to defend Bronx residents accused of crimes. Broadly speaking, investigators find evidence that will assist in the defense of the people we represent. The majority of the work of investigators does not take place in the office but is carried out in the field: at private homes, on the street, and in the Bronx community. Investigators may also be asked to interview individuals who are incarcerated at both New York City and New York State correctional facilities. 

•  Effectively communicate with attorneys and advocates to create a comprehensive investigative strategy 
• Locate, interview and take detailed statements from prosecution witnesses who are accusing the people we represent of committing a crime 
• Locate and interview favorable defense witnesses 
• Gather and review time-sensitive video surveillance 
• Photograph and diagram crime scenes and prepare courtroom exhibits  
• Perform Department of Motor Vehicles, public record, social media and criminal background investigations 
• Assist attorneys with case development 
• Write memoranda regarding investigative efforts and results 
• Occasionally testify in court proceedings 

 Qualifications 

• Commitment to social justice work, specifically on issues affecting low-income individuals impacted by the Criminal, Civil, and Family Court systems 
• Experience working in and with racially, ethnically and socioeconomically marginalized communities 
• Ability to effectively and respectfully communicate, collaborate and connect with people with various backgrounds, identities and experiences  
• Effective active listening skills 
• Effective interpersonal skills and ability to connect with reluctant parties 
• Comfort navigating the Bronx community, conducting in-home interviews and visiting crime scenes 
• Ability to think critically and creatively in unpredictable environments  
• Ability to be resourceful and persistent in gathering necessary evidence 
• Ability to multitask, maintain order and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment  
• Meticulous attention to detail 
• Ability to work well independently as well as collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team of lawyers and non-lawyers 
• Ability to exercise good judgment, discretion, and confidentiality with sensitive matters 
• Ability to receive constructive feedback, demonstrate introspection, and shift behavior accordingly 
• Commitment to raising one’s cultural consciousness and challenging oppressive practices on an interpersonal and institutional level 
• Valid driver's license preferred, but not required 
• Ability to work evenings and weekends, as needed 

 Preferred but not required 

• Proficient in Spanish 

This is a hybrid position that will require in-person work and contact with staff and community members. As of October 29, 2021, all city-funded employees with any potential of in-person contact with clients, community members or staff are required to show proof of full vaccination. You can find more details regarding this mandate here. Please let us know if this presents an issue.  

Approximately 70% of The Bronx Defenders' staff, including attorneys and non-attorneys, are represented by UAW Local 2325 - Association of Legal Aid Attorneys (AFL-CIO). This position is within the bargaining unit.    

 This position is non-exempt. By law, nonexempt employees are compensated hourly based on their annual rate and therefore are entitled to over-time, whereas exempt employees are not.  

 Salary is commensurate with experience.  For candidates with 1-10 years of directly relevant experience, the salary range for this position would be approximately $50,310 to $65,000. Full-time employees are also eligible for a comprehensive benefits package including but not limited to medical, dental and vision coverage; a 403(b) plan with employer contribution; a generous vacation, sick leave, and parental leave policy; and a professional development fund. More specific information about salary and benefits will be provided when and if an offer is extended.