Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

The Coles County Public Defender is accepting applications for the part-time position of Investigator. The position is ideal for someone who is retired law enforcement and/or interested in supplementing income. 

The investigator will assist attorneys representing indigent clients accused of crimes in Coles County. The investigator will identify, locate, and interview witnesses; locate and gather records, reports, documents and other factual materials; confer with attorneys to identify and pursue potential legal and factual issues; and interview and maintain contact with clients and family members.

The investigator may be asked to review and analyze discovery & serve subpoenas, therefore, it is imperative to have or develop a working knowledge of the criminal justice system and other related duties.

JOB DUTIES : The successful applicant will possess the ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with individuals and agencies that interact with the office, as well as the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Must be able to conduct

interviews, locate fact witnesses and experts. Must have the ability to prepare comprehensive, descriptive written reports. Applicants are expected to know how to screen, evaluate and prepare evidence and exhibits for evidentiary hearings; understand legal

terminology; have a working knowledge of the court system; use available resources for locating individuals and relevant information. Strong computer, internet, and office automation skills are a plus. Spanish language skills valued, but not required.

REQUIREMENTS : To qualify a person must have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job, be a high school graduate, priority will be given to those with a minimum of three years of overall experience and three years of specialized experience. A bachelor's degree in criminal justice, social science, or a related field will be counted toward the experience requirement. Comprehensive knowledge of fact and mitigation investigation principles, methods, and techniques are imperative, as is the ability to identify and evaluate pertinent facts. A general understanding of criminal law and criminal procedure is necessary. The applicant should also have excellent people skills, good judgment, strong technical skills, the ability to prioritize, and work independently and cooperatively. 

Commitment to the indigent and personal integrity are essential. Must have computer skills and social media literacy, familiarity with Windows operating systems and be proficient with Microsoft Office applications. A valid driver’s license is required.

SPECIAL WORKING CONDITIONS : Work outside of normal business hours and on weekends will be rare, but could be occasionally required. Physical demands for this position include those required for the individual to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

SELECTION CRITERIA : The selected applicant must understand office confidentiality issues, such as attorney/client privilege, and the ability to exercise good judgment in a mature and diplomatic manner. Candidate must be able to work independently, be flexible, take

initiative, and work well in teams. Applicants must be United States citizens or permanent residents seeking citizenship in the United States.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT : The selected candidate will be subject to a background check, and subsequent favorable suitability determination for employment. Employees of the Coles County Public Defender’s Office are considered “at-will” employees. At this time, this is not considered a sworn law enforcement officer position.

SALARY AND COMPENSATION : This is a part-time position paying up to $25.00 an hour with an average of 20 hours per week. No benefits are offered for this position. This will be a work-from-home position with time in the office and the county jail meeting with clients. 

Why Coles County? Located in East-Central Illinois, Coles County offers small-town charm, low cost of living, and a real chance to make an impact. It is about 20 minutes to Lake Shelbyville, 2 hours to St. Louis, and 3 hours to downtown Chicago. Coles County is also home to Eastern Illinois University, Lake Land College, Fox Ridge State Park, Lake Charleston and Lake Mattoon.

Application Information. Qualified persons may apply by sending the following, in one PDF document, to: ddeters@co.coles.il.us and agossett@co.coles.il.us

(1) letter of interest

(2) current and detailed resume

(3) writing sample that has not been edited by others

(4) names and contact information for three work references who may be contacted

The Coles County Public Defender is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Costs associated with interviewing and relocation will not be reimbursed.

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